Governor Bello Matawalle of Zamfara State on Thursday extended border closure for another two weeks to curb the outbreak of Coronavirus in the state.
The governor also approved the setting up of mobile courts for instant prosecution of lockdown offenders.
A statement signed by the governor’s special adviser on media and communication, Zailani Bappa, quoted Mr Matawalle as making the announcement during a state-wide broadcast on Thursday.
According to the statement, Mr Matawalle also announced the suspension of this year’s Ramadan Tafsir, Taraweeh and Ittikaf across the state, emphasizing that the state government would ensure the enforcement of all these directives for the safety of its citizens.
“What we are doing is in tandem with international good practices concerning the current pandemic ravaging the globe.
“Although we do not have a single index recorded here in our state, we are worried with the developments in our neighboring states of Sokoto and Katsina. We cannot afford to be complacent, ” Governor Matawalle noted.
He warned that any vehicle caught trying to go in or out of the state borders would be confiscated and the owner prosecuted.
Governor Matawalle, however, declared that residents are allowed to freely move around and conduct their normal businesses in the state.
“In all these however, I enjoin you to observe the best practices of social distancing, use of face masks and hand sanitisers”, Mr Matawalle stated.
According to him, the state government had provided two isolation centers and had equipped them.
“We have also ordered ventilators and test kits some of which have already arrived and will be unveiled soon.
“Moreover, the state Government has ordered for food stuff and essential commodities for distribution to citizens to cushion the effect of the present moment as the fasting period commences,” the governor added.
