Abia Extends Lockdown By 7 Days

In order to confirm that the state is free from the novel Coronavirus, the Abia State government has extended the lockdown order by seven days, beginning from Wednesday, April 8, 2020.

The government said the extension, was because the normal incubation period for the virus was 14 days.

A statement issued by the secretary to the government of Abia State, Chris Ezem, said the government was aware of the hardship and inconvenience the situation had brought upon the people.

The statement noted however, that it was better to live with temporary inconvenience than to expose people of the state to the disease.

The NCDC, according to the statement is still tracking over 2000 suspected cases across the country, adding that while these persons were not from Abia, extra vigilance was necessary at this time.
The statement said :

“Within this period, Government will continue to distribute some food items, sanitizers and face masks which commenced officially today,”

“Government hereby directs all the various enforcement teams at the State and Local Government levels as well as all security agencies to continue the enforcement of the directives on lockdown at the borders, markets, Transport operators, Religious Groups and all forms of public gathering.

“Transition Committee Chairmen of Local Government Areas and Security Operatives are directed to remain vigilant.

“Government commends all frontline service providers, and all those on essential services including but not limited to medical and paramedical personnel, environmental and community health officers, ASEPA, all volunteers and security agencies who have stood firm with the State Government to battle this virus.

“Governor Okezie Ikpeazu is grateful to Ndi Abia for keeping faith and complying with the sit at home directive so far.”