TheCable

One week after contracting COVID-19, Samuel Ortom, governor of Benue state, says he has recovered from the virus.

Ortom said this while addressing journalists in Markudi, the state capital, on Wednesday.

The governor appreciated his family, friends, and people of the state for their prayers during his period of isolation while urging citizens to adhere strictly to COVID-19 protocol.

He also thanked Benson Antonio, his deputy, who stood in his place during his period of isolation.

Last week, through Tever Akande, his chief press secretary, the governor had announced that he had tested positive for the virus.

He, however, said he showed no symptoms and had commenced treatment.

The governor had also advised all those who came in contact with him to go for a COVID-19 test.

“This is to confirm that the result of my last COVID-19 test returned positive. Though I have not shown any symptoms, I have already commenced treatment. Let me advise those who have come in contact with me in the last couple of days to go for a test,” he said.

Shortly after his announcement, nine of the governor’s aides had also tested positive for the virus.

Abonou, who made the announcement, said the state action committee on COVID-19 had taken steps to trace those who came in contact with the nine aides.

He had also noted that the development would not affect the day to day running of the state.