Covid-19: Kogi Govt seals all entry points

Kogi State has joined the league of states on lockdown as governor Yahaya Bello ordered the closure of all borders-both land and water-into Kogi State as a precautionary measure to preempt the outbreak of Coronavirus pandemic in the confluence state.

The pronouncement was contained in a statement issued by the state Commissioner for information, Kingsley Fanwo, in Lokoja, the state capital on Wednesday.

Mr Fanwo stressed that commuters coming in and going out of the state will be subjected to thorough health checks.

” Persons with any disease condition which mimics COVID-19 symptoms, including elevated temperatures, should have a medical report from a reputable hospital/medical practitioner explaining their condition before venturing through the state,” the statement said.

He further noted that both cabs could convey only three passengers at once (one in front and 2 behind) and must provide hand sanitizers for passengers to ensure safety.

“Buses may carry only two passengers per row of seats, subject to a maximum of 10 passengers per trip for any type of bus.

” All transport companies, transport unions and terminal operators must keep a travel manifest for inbound and outbound passengers, especially verified phone numbers.

“They must also provide hand-washing stands with soap in the garages and hand sanitizers in the buses.

” Passengers are required to cooperate by washing their hands with soap and water and sanitize them before boarding.

” They are to be denied boarding if they fail to comply with the hygiene procedures,” the statement said.

It directed commercial motorcycle operators to suspend their operations with effect from March 26.

“Relevant officials are empowered to stop and enforce compliance. Defaulters will be arrested,” Mr Bello said in the statement.

The government also placed an indefinite ban on all social, cultural and religious activities and pegged essential activities to a crowd of five persons.

“All public areas, pubs, bars and restaurants are limited to five customers at a time, seated apart in line with the social distancing guidelines.

” Operators and customers are advised to utilise delivery and takeaway options more during this period.

” Any guest with high temperature above 38 degrees Celsius must be reported immediately.

” Willful breach of these guidelines, the unjustified inflation of prices of any essential commodity and the making or spreading of fake news or hate speech during this period of trial will be regarded as sabotage and punished accordingly,” the statement further said.