Kaduna state Governor, El Rufai announces 2 weeks Lockdown extension in Kaduna

The Kaduna state governor, Nasir El Rufai has announced the continuation of the current lockdown order in the state by another 2 weeks starting from 1st of June, 2020.

The lockdown still maintain the 3 days window for markets to open for trading but all other non essential services like churches, mosques and luxury shops must remain closed during this period. You can read the complete statement from the Kaduna state governor below:

“This is why the state government has adjusted and extended the Quarantine Orders, by two weeks to empower citizens to more steadfastly carry forward, the against fight COVID-19.

“Preservation of the relaxations in this extension requires that citizens demonstrate greater compliance with laid down health protocols, particularly the wearing of facemasks outside the house, observance of physical distancing, regular handwashing with soap and water and the avoidance of large gatherings.”

“From Monday, 1st June 2020, the revised regulations will come into effect. They give citizens a three-day window every week to shop for food and other essentials.

“Until otherwise stated, the lockdown-free days are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

“Temporary neighbourhood markets will continue to operate from 10 am to 4 pm on these three days, but citizens can move from 6 am to 6 pm on these lockdown-free days. Informal markets are not allowed and those flouting regulations by turning streets into markets are advised to stop.

“However, the prohibition of interstate and intercity travel remains. Government officials and mobile courts will enforce this ban to prevent people from spreading the virus through non-essential movement.

“In addition, the nighttime curfew that has been enforced across the state still remains, from 6 pm to 6 am.

“Schools, places of worship and markets will remain closed under the adjusted orders.

The relevant government officials and agencies will be engaging with religious leaders, transport unions, traditional institutions, market unions, school proprietors and other stakeholders as may be identified from time to time, to discuss the conditions and circumstances for a safe reopening of these sectors.

“Kaduna State has so far conducted 1900 tests and had recorded a total of 189 Covid-19 cases as at 25th May 2020. Ideally, the state would prefer to conduct so many more tests, but we are constrained by a host of factors.

“During the two-week extension, the state will continue to expand its public health response, including testing capacity. The MoH team will continue to conduct more tests in identified hotspots.

“The public sector will also use the two-week extension to prepare for limited resumption. Heads of Ministries, Department and Agencies will ensure that government offices are reconfigured for physical distancing and that handwashing facilities are available.”