Markets in Abia State are now to operate from Monday to Friday, from 7am to 5pm, as the state government is gradually relaxing restrictions in markets, occasioned by COVID-19 pandemic.
However, the state government warned market enforcement teams to ensure that all Covid-19 protocols strictly apply in all the markets; namely compulsory provision of hand washing facilities, regular fumigation and compulsory wearing of facemasks, which will be inspected three times per week by the state taskforce and enforced every day by the market enforcement committee.
Chris Ezem, secretary to Abia State Government, who is also chairman, Inter-ministerial Committee on COVID-19 in a statement, stated that the state government has lifted ban on interstate movement, as approved by the Federal Government up to curfew time of 10.00pm to 6.00am.
On intrastate transport, the state government insists that tricycle (keke) operators are to carry maximum of 2 persons, minibus (Oke-bekee), maximum of 5, Hiace Bus, maximum of 7 and coaster, maximum of 14.
It also mandated all drivers and passengers to wear face masks throughout their trip.
“All Intra and interstate transporters are to strictly observe curfew time, as directed by Federal Government. Government will provide digital thermometers at our state borders, to screen interstate travelers as travelers, who fail the screening, would be turned back or quarantined in the nearest Covid-19 holding area.
“Security agencies are authorised to ensure strict compliance to the use of face mask and must apprehend violators”.
In line with Federal Government directives, the statement noted that the state Ministry of Education is currently working out modalities for the reopening of schools, particularly for primary 6, JSS 3 and SS3 students in the state.
Government however, warned that anybody caught running classes or study centres, contrary to government directive will be prosecuted.
“Such study centres should approach the commissioner for Education for guidelines and necessary accreditation; otherwise they stand the risk of permanent closure and prosecution.
The statement advised Abians to continue to observe all Covid-19 protocols, as regards compulsory wearing of face mask, observing regular hygiene of hand washing and use of sanitizer and social distancing, to ensure that they stay safe at all times.
