(Minna)
Governor Abubarkar Sani Bello of Niger state has taken a hard stance against violators of safety measures to check the spread of Corona Virus in the state.
He therefore directed security operatives to henceforth arrest anyone found outside his or her homes without a face masks or other protective instruments against the virus.
The Governor,who gave the warning at the flag-off of compulsory wearing of face mask, however said while face masks could not fully prevent someone from becoming infected with the virus, it would go a long way in preventing carriers from infecting others with the disease.
“Please stay at home and if you must go out, ensure that you wear a face mask. Anyone found outside his house without a face mask will be arrested by security agents and they have been mandated to enforce this new order,”he stressed.
Bello, who said that over 300, 000 of the face masks, produced locally were available for free distribution, directed all the 25 local government chairmen to replicate it in their respective domain, adding that no council should exempted.
The governor also directed that security agencies, nurses and doctors on duty should be immediately provided with protective instruments like face masks and gloves for effective discharge of their duties..
He said it was necessary to protect them from exposure “as it is the responsibility of the government to protect them.”
Governor Bello said there would be no Ramadan lectures or people coming together to pray during the fasting period as it had been the practice in the past.
“I know Ramadan is around the corner but we can all pray in our houses. We would have held lectures or other activities done during fasting if we are sure of people maintaining social distance, ” he said.
Bello, however, expressed pessimism on the possibility of observing social distancing. “I doubt if social distancing can be maintained, and that is why we are all to remain in our homes and pray there.
Governor Bello, however, reminded the Muslims that ignorance of the order would be met with stiff consequences.
“The safety of lives is key and fundamental. Stay at home and say your prayers,”he said.
