Senator Binos Yeroe (Adamawa South) has tested negative for COVID-19 after isolating himself for 14 days.
The senator came out of self-isolation on Thursday to announce his COVID-19 status during a briefing in his residence at the state capital, Yola.
He said the safety routine was an example on the way to go as a public official during the coronavirus epidemic.
He said: “I am compelled to make this broadcast to clarify that in view of my exposure in the course of my duties as a Senator, I elected to self-isolate for 14 days due to the prevailing coronavirus pandemic and as directed by the leadership of the Senate.
“At the expiration of the 14 days, I submitted myself again to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) for examination. The NCDC has interviewed me and on the basis that I am not symptomatic after the mandatory self isolation, has seen no need to conduct further tests and subsequently has relieved me of all apprehensions.”
He stressed he submitting himself to the process even when he knew that he had no prior contact with anyone that had tested positive.
“I placed myself on my own volition in self-isolation in the interest of myself, my family, friends and community even before the NCDC advised self isolation,” he said.
Members of the public were kept in the dark regarding the senator’s COVID-19 status prior to his self-declaration of Thursday.
When his sample was first taken as someone who had travelled recently and possibly mingled with high-risk individuals and should therefore be tested, the public’s suspicion of that reality was dismissed.
A speculation also arose from the few who knew he was on self-isolation that he was not strictly observing the rule.
Dismissing that speculation, Sen Binos said: “During my self-isolation, I did not stay in or visit any hotel contrary to the rumours making the rounds as concocted and championed by known mischief makers purely to tarnish my image and defame me.
“I urge all well-wishers to discountenance all rumours. I am glad to say that I am fine and free of the virus.”