TheCable

Kayode Fayemi, governor of Ekiti state, has extended the lockdown in the state by two weeks, as part of efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus.

This was announced in a statement signed by Biodun Oyebanji, secretary to the state government, on Monday.

An initial lockdown was declared on March 30, 2020, for an initial period of 14 days. However, according to the statement, the lockdown has now been extended until April 27, 2020.

The new directive suspended the restriction of movement for eight hours (between 6 am to 2 pm) on April 16 and April 23, to allow the people re-stock essential goods.

“In consideration of available evidence on progress made to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Ekiti State and in recognition of similar efforts by neighbouring states and the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has directed the extension of restriction of movement and curfew in Ekiti State for two weeks, until 23:59 Monday, April 27, 2020,” the statement read.

“Only exceptions allowed are for the purposes of obtaining food, seeking emergency, life-saving, or chronic medical attention or obtaining social security grant. Persons performing essential services will be allowed to move around, particularly health workers, but must be duly designated with an identity card by the Head of their Institutions.

“All businesses and other entities shall remain closed. Oja Oba and Oja Bisi markets shall remain closed, except for any business or entity involved in the manufacturing, supply, or provision of an essential good or service. In facilities where essential goods are sold, all directives in respect of hygienic conditions to prevent the exposure of persons to COVID-19 must be adhered to.”

The government also prohibited any gathering in the state except for funerals, “which shall be limited to 20 people”.