COVID-19: Despite zero case, Plateau toughens border guard
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Jos, Plateau State: Authorities in Central Nigeria’s Plateau State have introduced tougher measures to guard against the deadly coronavirus disease, despite not recording any case yet.
The State had last week restricted public gatherings to 50 people within a 2meter interval, and banned all business activities except food and drug sales. Commercial transportation was also limited to a passenger per tricycle and three passengers for taxis, while entry into the State capital remained only between 6am and 8pm.
However, “based on assessment of the situation,” the Governor and Chairman of the COVID-19 Taskforce in Plateau State, Mr. Simon Lalong directed that from 6am Thursday 2nd April 2020, all entry and exit routes to the State be closed.
“No one will be allowed to come in or leave. Only those carrying out essential duties will be allowed after thorough clearance by security agencies and subject to preliminary examination by health officials,” Secretary to the Government of the State, Prof. Danladi Atu told Journalists on Wednesday
Similarly, all gatherings of people more than 50 will be shut down “outrightly,” said Prof. Atu.
Those that breached this provision last week, the SSG said were invited for questioning by securities and have apologized, but such will not be allowed henceforth.
The events, he added, even if below 50 persons will still be sanctioned if organizers do not adhere “strictly” to 2-metre distancing, provision of water and sanitizers at entrances.
Furthermore, the state according to Atu is considering sanctions for motorists who carry passengers beyond the provided benchmark.
Approved businesses, in his words, are also to be stationed 5meter away from others.
In the meanwhile, the state has in addition to the dedication of its tertiary health centres for screening and treatment of the coronavirus, has created a special fund to care for the medical and social challenges caused by the disease.
The “Covid-19 Support Fund” has so far received 28.5 million naira donation from UBA with whom it is being run.
Other corporate organisations and individuals have also donated to it but more is till needed.
Those who may wish to contribute, can use the Account Number: 1022751747, UBA.
