The Edo State Government has directed the shutdown of markets in the state from Wednesday, April 8, 2020, for the commencement of fumigation of the facilities.
Igbere TV reports that Deputy Governor of the state, Mr. Philip Shaibu, disclosed this in a press briefing in Benin City on Monday.
Shaibu, who doubles as Chairman, Edo State COVID-19 Response Technical Committee, said fumigation of the markets would commence from the day of closure.
According to him, “All markets in Edo State are to be shut down effective from Wednesday, April 8, 2020. The state government will undertake the fumigation of the markets from the day of closure.”
He said the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, will be out of isolation tomorrow and would thereafter lead the response efforts against COVID-19.
He added that the markets are to be relocated to designated public primary and secondary schools within the market’s vicinity.
He noted that the government has recommended the use of face masks as a government sanctioned precautionary measures against COVID-19, adding, “We have met with traditional and religious leaders to work out modalities for the implementation of different precautionary measures against COVID-19.”
He continued, “The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) has been designated as a holding/isolation centre. Isolation facilities are being made more comfortable for patients, as TV and Air Conditioning (AC) sets have been installed. Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reports that people are coming for voluntary testing.”
Secretary to Edo State Government, Barr. Osarodion Ogie urged market leaders in the state to sensitise their members to ensure they maintain social distancing in the market, as coronavirus has no respect for any person.
“Coronavirus has no cure but the only cure is for us all to listen and obey government’s directives and instructions on measures to follow to check the pandemic.”
Commissioner for information and Orientation, Rt. Hon. Paul Ohonbamu commended the press in the fight against the spread of COVID-19, urging the citizens to stay at home as the virus doesn’t move but people who move contract and spread the virus.
