Coronavirus: Osun State Govt Extends Lockdown By Two Weeks

The Osun State Government has extended the lockdown order in the state by two weeks as a measure to curtail the spread of coronavirus in the state.

However, the people of the state were given the chance to re-stock between 15th April, Wednesday and Thursday 16th, by suspending the lockdown for the two days period.

The development was revealed in a statement by the Governor of the state, Gboyega Oyetola, on Tuesday evening.

Oyetola while stating the reason for extended the lockdown noted that the decision was the best measure to tackle the spread of COVID-19 in the state.

He further stated that since the lockdown has been announced with compliance with the people of Osun State no new case has been announced ever since in the state.

Oyetola said: “In order to ensure a total defeat of coronavirus in Osun, we shall extend lockdown by another 14 days. But to allow our people to re-stock, the lockdown is suspended between Wednesday, 15th and Thursday, 16th April 2020. The second lockdown shall, therefore, commence on midnight on Thursday, April 16, 2020.”

“All markets and land boundaries remain closed during the suspension of the lockdown and the lockdown period. Also, the ban on all public gatherings remains in force.”

“Circumstances of our situation do not support the suspension of lockdown at this period. The application and implications of half measures are dangerous and grave at this critical period.”

“There can be no doubt that we have all sacrificed to get us where we are. We thank you all for your support, patience and sacrifice during these difficult times. The experience of the last few months is not one we would wish to repeat but it is better for us to deal with this deadly enemy once and for all.”

“We are aware of the negative effects of lockdown on our fragile economy. But as a responsible government, we will not sacrifice the lives and security of our people on the altar of the economy.”

He added that necessary security arrangement had been out in place to guarantee the safety of lives and property of citizens, as well as to ensure total compliance with the directive.

Oyetola had earlier on Tuesday ordered immediate payment of stipends due to 25,907 vulnerable citizens in the State, which covers payment of N20,000 each to 15,289 elderly citizens and people living with disabilities under the Special Grant Transfer (SGT) scheme and ₦7,500 stipend to 10,618 youths under the Public Work Fare (PWF) programme.