Coronavirus: Nigerian state bans people from going out without wearing face masks

Governor Ben Ayade of Cross Rivers State has prohibited the movement of people in the state unless they wear a face mask.

The governor gave the directive alongside others in response to the discovery of five cases of COVID-19 in neighbouring Akwa Ibom State.

The directive is contained in a list of guidelines issued and signed by Christian Ita, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor.

See the guidelines below.

Following the prevalence of coronavirus infections in neighboring states, the Cross River State Governor, Sir Ben Ayade on Wednesday issued the following executive orders:

1. Starting from 12am on April 3rd, 2020, no person will be allowed in public without a nose or face mask.

2. The Cross River State Garment Factory is directed to work round the clock to produce masks, while observing industrial safe distancing

3. Government to distribute masks for free to residents of the state

4. The Ministry of Humanitarian and Welfare Services, in conjunction with the state Food Bank, to deliver free food to the vulnerable in the state.

5. All exit and entry routes into the state are now completely shut against all human and vehicular movements.

6. All commissioners, special advisers, chairmen, Director Generals, directors and members of boards and commissions as well as special assistants, are hereby co-opted to assist the COVID-19 task force, in ensuring the enforcement and compliance with the guidelines aimed at keeping the state free of the pandemic.

7. Consequently, all those mentioned above are directed to report at the U.J. Esuene Stadium on Friday, April 3rd, 2020, to receive their kits and commence full enforcement along with the Nigerian Police, Military, the Homeland Security Services and the Border Patrol Agency.

8. All commissioners from local governments that border our neighbouring states, are directed to retire back home and take charge of enforcement

9. The state power company operating the 23megawatt power plant, is directed to power street lights from 6pm to 6am daily

10. Public spirited individuals and organizations willing to serve as Volunteers to support enforcement of COVID-19 guidelines, should register by sending their names and addresses tel no: 08039302693

11. For nose masks, residents should call 08099911011

12. For free food supply, residents should call 08037210284

13. The Cross river state microfinance bank to work for 24 hours.

Let us help keep Cross River safe from coronavirus, adhere strictly to government guidelines.