security
Yuletide Safety Advisory: Abia Govt Urges Responsible Festive Living as 20 Mass Transit Buses Set for Pilot Operations
The Abia State Government has called on residents of the state to embrace responsible living and heightened personal safety during the yuletide season, as part of broader efforts to safeguard public health and wellbeing.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, made the call on Tuesday at the Government House, Umuahia, while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Chioma Otti.
Prince Kanu advised Abians to exercise moderation in eating and drinking throughout the festive period, maintain proper hygiene standards, and remain vigilant against health risks often associated with the season. He particularly cautioned the public against patronising quacks, vendors of fake or substandard drugs, contaminated food items, unregulated medical commodities, and unauthorised medical outreaches, noting that such practices pose serious dangers to lives.
According to the Information Commissioner, the advisory forms part of the state government’s preventive health approach aimed at reducing avoidable illnesses and emergencies during the celebrations, while encouraging citizens to make informed and safe choices.
In a related development, Prince Kanu announced progress in the state’s mass transit initiative following the formal launch and handover of 20 mass transit buses by the Abia State Government. He disclosed that the Ministry of Transport is currently fine-tuning the operational framework for the buses.
He explained that all necessary infrastructure and logistics required to guarantee smooth, safe, and efficient service delivery are being put in place ahead of the rollout of limited pilot operations. This, he said, is to ensure that the buses commence operations seamlessly and meet the expectations of Abians.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Alex Otti-led administration to public safety, efficient service delivery, and people-oriented governance, especially during periods of increased social and economic activities such as the yuletide.