The Government of Abia State led by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has approved the locking down of the State for one week at first.
This was made known by the Secretary to State Government, Barr. Chris Ezem who said the lockdown will last for one week at first and will be reviewed at the end of the week.
Read the statement below:
GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
Abia State Inter-Ministerial Committee on Coronavirus met and reviewed some measures and strategies the state has put in place to avert the spread of coronavirus in the state.
1. Accordingly, Abia State Governor Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu has approved the lockdown of the state from Wednesday, April 1, 2020, for 1 week in the first instance.
However, people or institutions rendering essential services, such as security agencies – Police, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense, TIMAAS, Fire Services, Hospitals, pharmaceuticals, media, eateries, shops within the neighbourhood, filling stations are exempted.
The Committee strongly advised citizens to stay at home, but if you must come out, you must wear a face mask.
2. The State borders remain closed until further notice. However, vehicles carrying foods, medical and pharmaceutical items, Petroleum products and other essential items are exempted.
3. In order to avoid overcrowding and body contact, social gatherings of all kinds; weddings, burial ceremonies, a meeting of all colourations and religious activities are suspended forthwith.
The attention of government has been drawn on some people who deliberately flouted the earlier directive of government on public gatherings and crowd control. I wish to reiterate that Transition Committee Chairman and Traditional Rulers in their domains must enforce government directives without fail.
4. On the part of the citizenry, they should always maintain a high level of hygiene by constantly washing their hands with running water and soap, wear face masks, apply alcoholic based sanitizers as well as practice social distancing of 1.5meters at all time.
5. Other directives issued earlier on transportation, hospitality industry, etc are still in force.
Finally, Abia State Government earnestly feel the pains and sacrifices every citizen must make so that together we will win the battle against coronavirus.
