COVID- 19: Benue extends lockdown, moves against roadside trading

By Jimin Geoffrey

As nations worldover battle to contain the spread of the deadly Coronavirus, COVID-19, Benue State Government has extended the partial lockdown within the state and dusk to dawn curfew until further notice.

Govenor Samuel Ortom who disclosed this today at the Benue Peoples House Makurdi while briefing journalists, also noted that roadside trading as a result of closure of markets which violates the social distancing rule would henceforth not be allowed.

He stated that all entry points into the state remain closed until further notice, stressing that restrictions on public gatherings of all kinds remain in force in tandem with the directives on social distancing.

The Governor stated that Primary Health Care Centres and hospitals in all the 23 local government areas would serve as quarantine and limited treatment centres in the event of outbreak of the virus.

He urged Benue people to adhere to preventive measures such as regular hand washing with water and soap, use of hand sanitizers and social distancing.

Govenor Ortom acknowledged the cooperation of the general public in volunteering information to the Action Committee on suspected cases and prompt action which had yielded positive result, pointing out that the State Action Committee led by Engr. Abounu had performed excellently on its assignment.

While emphasising the power and efficacy of prayer, the Governor noted that as everything humanly possible to prevent the spread of the virus to Benue is being done, fasting and prayers must also be intensified to seek God’s intervention.

“It is my strong conviction that while we do what is humanly possible to prevent Coronavirus, we must also remember the word of God in the book of 2 Chronicles 7:14 says; “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land,” the Governor stated.

While answering questions from journalists, Governor Ortom appealed to good spirited individuals and corporate bodies to complement Government’s efforts by reaching out to the needy.