To contain the spread of the coronavirus, Lagos and Ondo states have ordered the closure of markets especially the closure of markets selling non-essential products.
In Ondo State, the government in a statement released by the Commissioner for Information, Donald Ojogo, said the decision followed the executive council meeting which held on Monday, March 23, to stem the tide of the rampaging COVID-19 pandemic.
He said under this fresh directive, which is for a period of seven days in the first instance, only the sale of life-saving and sustaining items like food, water and medicals shall be allowed.
“Similarly, Governor Akeredolu reiterates that the suspension of political gatherings and meetings is still in force,” the statement said.
“In this regard, any form of campaign for the forthcoming Local Government Election in the State should be discontinued for the meantime.
“And in furtherance of his resolve to deepen efforts under the present circumstances, Governor Akeredolu has equally directed the immediate cancellation of all official engagements.
“This directive includes courtesy calls and other engagements already approved and scheduled prior to this time; and shall suffice for a period of 14 days in the first instance.
“The Governor seeks the co-operation and understanding of all residents in the State as he works assiduously to keep the State safe from COVID-19.”
In Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, directed that all markets selling non-essential products or life-saving items should close for seven days, effective Thursday.
“All markets and stores except markets that are selling food items, water, medicines, and medical equipment and other related essential daily life-saving products are hereby directed to close effective from Thursday 26 March, 2020 for seven days at the first instance,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu said the guidelines and directives were issued as an outcome of a meeting at the state house on Tuesday.
“We have seen an increase in confirmed cases nationwide, with Lagos still leading, with the most number of newly confirmed cases. Here in Lagos, we have seen a jump in our number from 19 on Sunday afternoon to 29 as at this briefing,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu further urged that travels to and from Lagos, whether by road or air should be avoided at the moment and all citizens should refrain from interstate travel of any kind until the worst of the crisis is left behind.
“This is not the time to visit a friend, no social events, weddings, naming ceremonies and parties. Anyone fluting any of the directives will face the wrath of the law,” he said.
