Oyo: Makinde Suspends FG’s Curfew To Allow Crossover Services

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State  has  approved the suspension of the 12am to 4am curfew earlier imposed on states by the Federal Government to enable churches and others observe crossover services in the year 2021. 

The governor, who announced this in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Taiwo Adisa, on Wednesday, said officials of the State’s task force on COVID-19 would enforce strict compliance with guidelines and advisories against the virus during the period and beyond. 

The statement further indicated that chairman of the technical team of the COVID-19 task force, Prof. Temitope Alonge, had endorsed the governor’s directive by reviewing the team’s earlier pronouncement and lifting the curfew.

The statement added that other advisories earlier released by the task force, including the directive of 50 per cent occupancy for  worship and event centres, ban of street carnivals and others, remain in effect.

It read, “Following a review of the pronouncement of the Technical Team of the Task Force on COVID-19 in Oyo State on 29th December 2020, His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, FNSE, has magnanimously directed that the 12 midnight to 4am curfew be lifted. 

“The governor has also warned citizens and residents of Oyo State to ensure strict compliance with the guidelines, protocols and advisories as laid down by the OYO State COVID-19 Task Force aimed at limiting the transmission of the disease in our communities.

“Secondly, he has directed that enforcement of these guidelines and protocols in accordance with the law will be applied as appropriate, enjoining individuals and organizations to comply and by so doing ensure that we all spread the joy of this season and not the virus.”

The task force had earlier reminded event centres on the existing advisory on 50 per cent capacity occupancy for events, while also enforcing the proper use of face masks and hand washing requirements.