Kwara declares partial lockdown over COVID-19 second wave

The Kwara state government has declared another lockdown over the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a fresh COVID-19 guideline issued by the state technical committee, on Wednesday, the government said the lockdown will begin on Thursday and will begin from 12 midnight to 4:30 am.

Raji Rasaq, commissioner for health, said during a press conference in Ilorin, the state capital, that the partial lockdown will be effective until further notice.

The health commissioner said security agencies will use every lawful means to ensure that COVID-19 protocol is complied with.

“There shall be partial statewide lockdown between 12 am and 4:30a.m. until further notice. These new guidelines take effect from Thursday, December 24, 2020,” Rasaq said.

“Appropriate use of face mask in public places is mandatory. Concerts/carnivals/Clubbing are not allowed until further notice.

“Worship centres are not to allow congregations exceeding 50% of the maximum capacity of the venue. This is to allow for physical distancing.

“Other gatherings (formal and informal) exceeding 50 people are disallowed. Again, proper use of face masks in public spaces is mandatory. Therefore, the protocol of ‘No face mask, no entry’ must apply at all public places.

“Civil servants are to work from their homes. The only exemptions are essential workers, especially in the health sector. Virtual meetings are encouraged.

“Transporters are to enforce all COVID-19 protocols, including proper use of face masks by drivers and passengers. Appropriate sanctions will apply to defaulters. Provisions of the Kwara State Infectious Diseases Regulations 2020 shall apply to all offenders.”