DEACTIVATION OF PASSPORTS BY PRESIDENTIAL TASK FORCE
By Ronaldson Diete-Spiff, Esq
Due to the rise of fake PCR test result and vaccination cards, the Federal Government has inaugurated the Presidential Steering Committee in a bid to checkmate the surge in the increase of fake PCR tests and vaccination cards and have also deactivated the passports of almost 200 COVID-19 test defaulters. This call was spear headed by the Commissioner for Health Prof. Akin Abayomi of Lagos state wherein he reiterated that the committee has come up with over 200 defaulters and have been summoned to appear before a mobile court and failure to make themselves available have led to the deactivation of their passport for one year.
Consequently, he further stated that punishment would be meted out to erring individuals where they would be subjected to fines or community service in lieu. It was further brought to limelight by the Hon. Commissioner that some passengers in a bid to boycott the National guidelines, returning passengers were found guilty of presenting fake COVID-19 PCR tests or fake vaccination giving false information. Furthermore, he stated that testing at designated areas is free, however there is a reduction in the cost from N50, 400 to N42, 250 per COVID-19 PCR test which is said to have commenced from the 28th January, 2022. The essence of the said reduction was to enable citizens who need the test for travel, work or other purposes. However, the Lagos state Biobank has looked into the processes involved in conducting COVID-19 PCR test at the designated centers and same been sent to Governor based on recommendation for him to critically evaluate it.
This is a laudable achievement coming from the government at a period when the cases of the deadly COVID-19 virus and OMICRON has taken center stage. Thus, this initiative by the government will curb the spread of the deadly virus as it has laid down punitive measures which will serve as a deterrent to future defaulters to desist from such act. However, it is hoped that by the inauguration of the committee, the reform will yield fruits sooner rather than later.
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