BY EMMA PETER, ABUJA
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has urged Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant and adhere strictly to preventive measures following the Federal Government’s confirmation of an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The IGP also called on members of the public to cooperate with health authorities, maintain proper personal hygiene and follow official health advisories to prevent further transmission of the disease.
According to a press statement issued on Monday, October 26, 2026, by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police chief stressed the importance of public awareness and collective responsibility in safeguarding lives during the outbreak.
The statement advised Nigerians to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, avoid direct contact with the blood and body fluids of suspected Ebola patients, and stay away from potentially contaminated items.
It also cautioned members of the public against touching or washing the bodies of persons suspected to have died from the disease, noting the importance of observing appropriate safety precautions.
The IGP further advised anyone who might have been exposed to the virus to contact health authorities promptly for professional guidance.
According to the statement, individuals who develop symptoms after possible exposure should avoid physical contact with others and call the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) on its toll-free helpline, 6232, for immediate guidance.
Disu also directed police personnel to observe appropriate infection prevention measures while performing their duties and ensure that suspected cases are promptly referred to qualified health professionals.
He emphasised that suspected patients, their contacts and healthcare workers must be treated with dignity and without discrimination.
The Nigeria Police Force also urged Nigerians to cooperate with contact-tracing teams and provide accurate information whenever required to assist health authorities in containing the outbreak.
The statement warned against spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic, urging citizens to rely on official updates from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the NCDC and other authorised public health agencies.
It added that the Nigeria Police Force remained committed to supporting relevant health authorities in protecting lives and maintaining public order throughout the period.
The IGP reiterated that protecting public health was a shared responsibility, urging Nigerians to remain informed, exercise vigilance and avoid stigmatising anyone suspected of being infected or exposed to the virus.
