By Iliya Kure
A Civil Defence Officer, Corps Assistant Joshua Philip, posted to Infectious Disease Control Centre, in Down Quarters, Kaduna, to provide security, has been placed under drugs and self-isolation following fracas with a patient trying to escape from the facility.
Report has it that the suspected COVlD-l9 patient tried to leave the centre for morning prayers without the permission of doctors.
A confrontation ensued between the security personnel and the patient who forcefully picked the keys of the gate of the centre and tried to open the gate to escape.
A statement by the Media Assistant to the Commandant General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC), Ekunola Gbenga, says, the incidence has exposed its officer, hence the need for him (the officer) to self-isolate for two weeks.
The Corps has already strengthened security measures at the centre.
The Statement Reads:
“A COVID-19 patient attempted to escape from the isolation centre in Kaduna.
“A confrontation ensued between our personnel and the patient who forcefully picked the keys to the gate of the centre and tried to escape.
“The patient was arrested by Corps Assistant Joshua Philip who was among officers on duty at the isolation centre.
“The COVID-19 patient engaged Philip in serious fracas after he stopped him from leaving the isolation centre. This exposed the officer to COVID-19.
“The keys were disinfected and the doctor gave the personnel some drugs. He was instructed to self-isolate for two weeks and to call the centre if he developed any symptoms.
“The Corps has since strengthened its security measure at the isolation centre.”