President Muhammadu Buhari has relaxed the total lockdown in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lagos and Ogun states. This, according to him, would be effective as from Monday, May 4, 2020.
The President disclosed this in his presidential broadcast on Monday.
However, he has ordered restrictions the enforcement of a total lockdown for a period of two weeks with immediate effect, while promising the Federal Government’s necessary human, material and technical resources to support the state in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic and deterring the risk of further spread to neighbouring states.
He also noted that the restrictions on social and religious gatherings shall remain in place. State Governments, corporate organisations and philanthropists are encouraged to support the production of cloth masks for citizens.
Recall that President Buhari ordered total lockdown in Abuja, Lagos and Ogun states on March 19, 2020.
He then ordered partial and controlled interstate movement of goods and services from producers to consumers.
Furthermore, on new nationwide measures, President Buhari noted that there will be an overnight curfew from 8pm to 6am. This, according to him, means all movements will be prohibited during this period except for essential services.
He added that there will be a ban on non-essential inter-state passenger travel until further notice, while the partial and controlled interstate movement of goods and services will be allowed for the movement of goods and services from producers to consumers.
He added that the Federal Government will strictly ensure the mandatory use of face masks or coverings in public in addition to maintaining physical distancing and personal hygiene.
In respect to the above guidelines, President Buhari noted that state Governors may choose to adapt and expand based on their unique circumstances provided they maintain alignment with the guidelines issued above.
And to support our businesses and traders, President Buhari said the monetary and fiscal authorities shall deploy all the necessary provisions needed for production to continue and thus, jobs restored.