David Umahi, Ebonyi State governor, has tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
The governor confirmed this in a statement he personally signed on Saturday.
He and some of his close aides tested positive for the virus after carrying out tests, the statement said.
Umahi further disclosed that currently, they are not showing any symptoms, but have since isolated themselves, in line with protocols laid down by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
He directed the deputy governor, Kelechi Igwe, to take over the frontline coordination of the state’s fight against the pandemic.
Umahi appealed to residents in the state to take the NCDC protocols more seriously, stating that he is working from home and will conduct all meetings virtually.
According to the NCDC, Ebonyi has 438 cases of the virus.
About 357 persons have been treated and discharged in the state, while three have died.