Below is the full text of Governor Olusegun Mimiko’s address to the people of Ondo state over the outbreak of a strange illness that has killed no fewer than 17 people in two communities in the state.
“My dear good people of Ondo State
“We have witnessed in the last few days a major health challenge. A yet to be named ailment whose causative agents, diagnosis and cure are also yet to be determined struck in locations in Irele Local Government Area of our State, killing 17 people and stoking panic and fear.
“I am, like you, saddened by this losses and the attendant fear of what looks like an epidemic. I can only bring words of consolation to the families of the deceased and words of comfort and assurances to the good people of our dear State. Our prayer at this hour is that God grants rest to the dead and fortitude to the living.