Coronavirus: Governor Wike Announces Temporary Lifting Of Lockdown For Just Two Days

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has temporary lifted the coronavirus lockdown imposed on Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt local government areas for just two days.

Governor Wike made the announcement in a State-Wide broadcast on Sunday night, where he said that the total lockdown will be lifted on Tuesday 12th May, 2020 and Wednesday, 13th May, 2020.

According to him, the decision was reached to allow residents to restock foodstuffs, medicines and other necessities at their home.

Governor Wike said that the lockdown will be reinstated on Thursday, 14th May, 2020. He said:

“Consequently, we have given due consideration to the propositions on the way forward by well-meaning citizens of the State, and after a cautious review of the situation, decided to implement a partial relaxation of the lockdown measures, to enable residents to have some fresh air and replenish their foodstuffs and medicines.

“To this end, I hereby announce the temporary lifting of the total lockdown on Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt Local Governments Areas for two days only, with effect from Tuesday 12th May 2020.

“All shops, supermarkets, and malls can open to the public for Tuesday and Wednesday, 12 and 13 May 2020.

“Similarly, all hospitals and banks can also open and provide full services to the public.

“While oil and gas companies are required to submit the list of their staff on essential duties to Government, note that there is no ban on the lifting of petroleum products from depots and other receptacles.

“The total lockdown on Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt Local Government Areas will be reinstated on Thursday 14th May 2020 and remain until further notice.”

Governor Wike said all other established restrictions under the Executive Orders on social distancing are still in force. He said:

“Compulsory wearing of face mask or scarfs in vehicles and public places; Closure of all land, sea and air borders and entry routes into the State; and Closure of all open markets, including slaughters, hotels, guest houses, cinemas, bars and restaurants; and Ban on gathering, including public burials, weddings, and religious gathering of more than 50 persons. Once again, thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

“Please note that our enemy is invisible. Stay at home, maintain social distancing, wash your hands regularly and stay safe.”

This is coming after Governor Nyesom Wike had demolished two hotels in the state for violating a lockdown order put in place by the state government.

His action has been condemned and described as unconstitutional, despotic and a gross abuse of power, by Nigerians on social media.