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The lawmaker representing Oluyole Federal Constituency of Oyo State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, on Wednesday made her first public appearance since testing positive for COVID-19 in early December.
Akande-Sadipe narrated how she battled with the deadly virus, explaining that she noticed the symptoms of in early December and immediately had a test that confirmed her positive status.
Speaking with newsmen in Oyo town during a meeting of the All Progressives Congress Oyo Central senatorial district meeting, Akande-Sadipe, said: “I feel great, I thank God for life and my recovery. I am happy to be here today at this Oyo Central senatorial district meeting, being my first outing since the battle with the deadly virus.”
She expressed gratitude to family members, political allies and fellow lawmakers in the House of Representatives, who stood by her during her COVID-19 ordeal.
“Covid is real. During the experience, each passing day was a gift. With God first, proper medication and management, I overcame,” she said.
The House of Representatives Chairman on Diaspora Affairs explained that though she was always very careful before contracting the virus, the experience has taught her a lesson that truly COVID-19 should not be handled with levity, especially amid the family unit and members of the same household.
“I would advise members of my constituency and Nigerians to observe social distancing religiously and wear face masks appropriately until further notice. This is not the time for socialising,” Akande-Sadipe said.
She advised that when fever or cough is prolonged, when there is respiratory discomfort accompanied by joint aches, loss of smell or taste, irritation, body pains and palpitations, people should isolate and seek medical attention.
“COVID-19 is deceptive, don’t self-medicate when you feel like you have malaria. Seek medical attention urgently,” she added.
Akande-Sadipe promised her constituents good representation and enhanced projects that will put Oluyole Federal Constituency on the front burner of developmental initiatives.
The lawmaker thanked former first lady of Oyo State, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi and APC state Chairman, Chief Akin Oke, religious leaders among others for their best wishes and support during her COVID-19 ordeal.