Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has ordered a total lockdown of Bonny Local Government Area and Onne Community in Eleme Local Government Areas with effect from June 21 to check the spread of coronavirus in the state.
In a state broadcast on Saturday evening, the governor said all residents of Bonny and Onne community, except those on essential services, must stay at home.
He said: “Pursuant to the fundamental objective of stopping the spread of coronavirus, we have reviewed the situation in Bonny Island and Onne Communities and come to the conclusion that a total lockdown is necessary at this time to shut down the continuing spread of the virus in these communities.
“By this measure, all shops, offices and business places must remain closed.
“All gatherings, including religious, burial and wedding activities are prohibited. All entry and exit into the two communities, except those on essential services and duly permitted, are also banned.
“Security agencies have been directed to enforce the lockdown by arresting and prosecuting anyone who dares to disobey these directives.”
Wike noted with 866 positive cases out of 2572 tested samples, the state was gradually becoming the next epicenter of the virus in the South-South region of the country.
The governor appealed to all residents and visitors to treat the situation with seriousness by staying at home.
