Joseph Bakare
President Muhammadu Buhari, has declared a 14-day curfew on Lagos, Ogun states and the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja).
Buhari made the declaration during the live broadcast on Sunday, 29th March at 7pm (WAT) while addressing citizens of the nation.
According to him, the 14-day curfew would commence with immediate effect tomorrow, Monday (Today) by 11pm.
He said, “Based on the advice of the Federal Ministry of Health and the NCDC, I am directing the cessation of all movements in Lagos; and the FCT for an initial period of 14 days with effect from 11pm on Monday, 30th March 2020. This restriction will also apply to Ogun State due to its close proximity to Lagos and the high traffic between the two States.”
The President noted that all citizens in these areas are advised to stay in their homes. Travel to or from other states should be postponed. All businesses and offices within these locations; should be fully closed during this period.
Buhari said that all the Governors of Lagos and Ogun States; as well as the Minister of the FCT are aware and notified. Furthermore, heads of security and intelligence agencies have also been briefed.
Health, Media, Retail, Telecommunications sectors excluded – Buhari
Buhari, however, exempted some sectors from the restriction of movement.
He said, “‘‘This order does not apply to hospitals and all related medical establishments as well as organizations in health care related manufacturing and distribution. Furthermore, commercial establishments such as; food processing, distribution and retail companies; petroleum distribution and retail entities, power generation, transmission and distribution companies; and private security companies are also exempted.”.
“Although these establishments are exempted, access will be restricted and monitored. Workers in telecommunication companies, broadcasters, print and electronic media staff; who can prove they are unable to work from home are also exempted.
” All seaports in Lagos shall remain operational in accordance with the guidelines I issued earlier. Vehicles and drivers conveying essential cargoes from these Ports to other parts of the country; will be screened thoroughly before departure by the Ports Health Authority.
“Furthermore, all vehicles conveying food and other essential humanitarian items into these locations from other parts of the country; will also be screened thoroughly before they are allowed to enter these restricted areas.
“Movements of all passenger aircraft, both commercial and private jets; are hereby suspended. Special permits will be issued on a needs basis.”
The president said the government will use this containment period to identify, trace and isolate all individuals; that have come into contact with confirmed cases, adding that they would ensure the treatment of confirmed cases while restricting further spread to other States.