Covid -19: Markets in Abia now to operate 6 days per week
By Steve Oko
The Abia State Government has extended the operational days of markets in the state to six day in a week.
Government also extended the operational time from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm .
Before now, markets only operated three times a day from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Secretary to Abia State Government, Mr. Chris Ezem who gave the update in a press statement, however, said both traders and visitors must strictly adhere to protocols.
It read in part : “Markets are now to operate Mondays to Fridays from 7am to 5pm. Market Enforcement Teams are to ensure that all Covid-19 protocols strictly apply in all our markets; namely Compulsory provision of washing facilities, regular fumigation and compulsory wearing of face mask which will be inspected three times per week by the State task force and enforced everyday by the market enforcement committee.”
The statement also said that the Ministry of Education had been directed to work out modalities for resumption of schools particularly pupils and students in exam classes.
“In line with Federal Government directives, our ministry of education is currently working out modalities for the reopening of schools particularly for primary 6, JSS 3 and SS3 students in the State.”
Government warned that anybody running classes or study center contrary to Government directive would be prosecuted.
“Such study center should approach honourable Commissioner for Education for guidelines and necessary accreditation otherwise they stand the risk of permanent closure and prosecution”, the statement said.
It further said that Government would soon make public a new enforcement regime for compulsory use of face mask.
On burials, weddings and other public gatherings the statement said such gatherings should not be attended by more than 50 persons, adding that clearance has to be obtained by the appropriate authorities.
Concerning intrastate transport, the statement said all drivers and passengers “are mandated to wear face masks throughout their trip.”
It added that all Intra and interstate transporters must strictly observe curfew time (10:pm – 6:00 am) as directed by Federal Government.
“Government will provide digital thermometers at our State borders to screen interstate travellers as travellers who fail the screening would be turned back or quarantined in the nearest Covid-19 holding area.
” Security agencies are authorised to ensure strict compliance to the use of face mask and must apprehend violators”, it added.
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