Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, has ordered the closure of all borders and roads leading to the state with immediate effect as part of efforts to curtail the spread of the coronavirus.
Secretary to the State Government, Emmanuel Ekuwem, disclosed in a statement on Thursday that the governor has also directed that Ibom Air suspends all flight operations with effect from March 29.
“Workers are advised to prepare to stop going to work and stay at home for one week with effect from Monday, March 30, 2020. The stay-at-home order will be strongly enforced,” he said.
“All borders and roads leading in and out of the state are closed with immediate effect; except for transportation of food items. Ibom Air will suspend all flight operations from Sunday, March 29, 2020.
“Markets are to remain open for sale of foodstuff and essential items only.”
The governor appealed to church leaders in the state to fast and pray on March 29 for God’s intervention in the present situation.
He added that during the one week break from work, government would continue to monitor the situation and provide update on the virus in the state.
“While the one-week stay-at-home order subsists, the Akwa Ibom state government will continue to monitor and provide regular updates on any development in the COVID-19 situation in our state,” he said.
Mr Emmanuel urged residents to remain calm, maintain personal and respiratory hygiene, wash their hands with soap and running water regularly, and maintain social distance.
