PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has ordered restriction of movements in Lagos state and Federal Capital Territory for 14 days on account of the rapid rise of confirmed cases of the dreadful coronavirus in the areas. Also affected in the presidential order is Ogun state due to its proximity to Lagos state.
The President made the order in his broadcast to the nation on Sunday adding that no sacrifice will be too much in the fight against the virus which has subjected the entire global community under a serious threat. The restriction takes effect from 11pm on Monday 30 March, 2020.
Buhari however assured that relief packages will be sent to the vulnerable population in these areas to lessen the negative effects of the order.
“Some of these measures will surely cause major inconveniences to many citizens. But these are sacrifices we should all be willing and ready to make for the greater good of our country.
“In Nigeria’s fight against COVID-19, there is no such thing as an overreaction or an under reaction. It is all about the right reaction by the right agencies and trained experts.
“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.
“All citizens in these areas are 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.
“The Governors of Lagos and Ogun States as well as the Minister of the FCT have been notified. Furthermore, heads of security and intelligence agencies have also been briefed.
“We will use this containment period to identify, trace and isolate all individuals that have come into contact with confirmed cases. We will ensure the treatment of confirmed cases while restricting further spread to other States.
“This order does not apply to hospitals and all related medical establishments as well as organizations in health care related manufacturing and distribution.
“For residents of satellite and commuter towns and communities around Lagos and Abuja whose livelihoods will surely be affected by some of these restrictive measures, we shall deploy relief materials to ease their pains in the coming weeks”, Buhari stated.