Coronavirus: Taraba closes markets, bans public gathering

The Taraba State Government has announced the closure of markets in the state and a ban on public gathering of more than 20 people.

The state’s Deputy Governor, Engr. Haruna Manu who made the announcement on Wednesday April 1, further disclosed that the stay at home order and closure of the state borders is still in force.

He disclosed that only shops which offer essential services such as food stores, medical shops and petrol service stations will be allowed to operate.

Manu stated that though the state has not witnessed any Coronavirus outbreak, the recent measures enforced by the government is part of proactive measures to contain the virus.

He told newsmen;

“Though the state has not witnessed any outbreak, robust and proactive measures are being put in place to contain the spread of the coronavirus to any part of the State.

“I wish to remind you that the ban on the public gathering of not more than 20 persons is still in place to safeguard the lives of all citizens.

“As part of proactive measures to contain the virus, the government has now directed markets and shops in the State to prepare for a closedown, effective from Wednesday, 1st April 2020 by 11 pm, except those that provide essential services like pharmacies, food stores, and petrol service stations.

“I therefore urge Tarabans to cooperate and adopt simple universal, acceptable, hygienic protocol such as no handshakes, no hugging, regular washing of hands, use of sanitizers and maintaining social distancing, among other similar measures.

“By this address, I am reiterating the earlier directives that the police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps must enforce strict compliance to this executive order.”