Following the recent confirmation of Coronavirus cases in Abia State, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has issued a curfew.
The curfew, effective from Sunday April 26, will run from 6pm to 6am for 7 days. It aims to facilitate comprehensive contact tracing, with a focus on the three local government areas of Ukwa West, Ikwuano, and Umuahia North.
Reportedly, the two confirmed Coronavirus cases in the state, both elderly and with underlying health conditions, are currently in stable condition and responding well to treatment.
A statement from the Abia state government highlights the following points:
1. Two Covid-19 cases have been recorded at the Federal Medical Center (FMC), Umuahia, with both patients being over 70 years old and having underlying illnesses. They are currently stable and responding to treatment.
2. Extensive contact tracing is underway, focusing on three Local Government Areas of Ukwa West, Ikwuano, and Umuahia North. Approximately 237 contacts have been identified so far.
3. The medical team is facing challenges in certain communities, particularly Umuorie in Ukwa West. The TC Chairman of Ukwa West and relevant Traditional Rulers are urged to provide full access and cooperation to the medical team, or face immediate suspension.
4. A 6pm – 6am curfew will be in effect in Abia State from Sunday, 26th April, 2020, for 7 days. This is to facilitate thorough contact tracing, with a special focus on the three local government areas of Ukwa West, Ikwuano, and Umuahia North. The Transition Council Chairmen of the three LGAs must ensure unrestricted access to the members of the medical rapid response team of the COVID-19 committee. Furthermore, all TC Chairmen of the state’s 17 LGAs and Honorable Commissioners are tasked with overseeing lockdown compliance by citizens and residents in their respective constituencies. Non-compliance will result in sanctions.
5. Transition Council Chairmen are responsible for enforcing the curfew and lockdown processes in their respective LGAs. The Transition Council Chairmen of Ukwa West, Ikwuano, and Umuahia North LGAs must ensure strict adherence to government directives, especially regarding contact tracing.
6. The Secretary to State Government (SSG) is directed to expand the palliatives committee to include selected members of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and Presidents General of Development Associations.
7. The palliative sub-committee will distribute food and protective items from community to community, starting from the following week. Associations of Ndi Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Akwa Ibom will also be included.
8. Provision will be made for artisans, such as vehicle mechanics, Keke operators, and commercial bus drivers, in the next phase of palliative distribution.
9. It is reported that the Federal Government is set to deliver 1800 bags of rice to the state. Verification of the supplies will be carried out, and the distribution pattern will be communicated if the supplies are deemed suitable for human consumption.
10. Despite Federal support, Abia State authorities emphasize that they do not require imported face masks and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as these are being locally produced. The use of face masks remains mandatory in Abia state, and non-compliance will be penalized.
11. The authorities express gratitude to the frontline officers and medical staff, hailing them as the heroes of the current crisis. They urge the people to take COVID-19 seriously and stay at home for the time being.
NB: Existing lockdown regulations, border closures, and associated measures remain in effect, in addition to the newly imposed curfew.