The NCDC via its Twitter handle, @NCDCgov, on Monday, said, “The first #COVID19 death in Nigeria has been recorded. The case was a 67-year-old male who returned home following medical treatment in the United Kingdom.
“He had underlying medical conditions- multiple myeloma and diabetes and was undergoing chemotherapy.”
The centre also announced five new cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria including two in the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja), two in Lagos State and one in Edo State.
Meanwhile, the family of the deceased has spoken about the incident. The family’s position is contained in a statement signed by Abubakar Achimugu.
It said, “Our family is deeply saddened to inform you of the sudden death of our beloved Father, Uncle, Brother and friend. Engr. Suleiman Achimugu (former MD of PPMC).
“He died of COVID 19 on 22/03/2020 some days after he arrived Nigeria from the UK. He was in self isolation upon his return from the UK and personally called NCDC after experiencing some discomfort that are related to COVID 19 symptoms.
“He tested positive and was promptly evacuated to the specialist hospital. He died while recieving treatment.
“We implore the general public to pray upon his soul and the recovery of infected persons .Your thoughts and prayers would be appreciated.
“Please maintain the public social distancing and restriction advice as we all walk through this very difficult time.
“He has since been buried according to Islamic rites. May Allah SWA have mercy on him. Ameen”