The Rivers State Government has closed all schools in the state and
directed all religious organisations to restrict their activities as a
result of the global coronavirus pandemic.
In a statewide broadcast on Friday, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom
Ezenwo Wike said that the action was taken in the interest of Rivers
State.
The closure affects public and private Primary, Secondary and Tertiary
Institutions.
He said: “Based on the above precautionary measures, the State can be
described to be at an alert state. To further strengthen our resolve to
protect our citizens, the State Government has taken the following
decisions:
“1. All Schools in the State are to be closed down with effect from
Monday, March 23, 2020.
2. All Religious Organisations are to restrict their activities.”
Governor Wike said that his administration took the decision with a deep
sense of responsibility.
He said: “As you are aware, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has
described coronavirus as a global pandemic. This development calls for
collective action by all well-meaning citizens.
“As a responsive government, even though we have not had a confirmed
case of coronavirus, we did not rest on our oars as we set-up a Five-man
Inter-ministerial committee to carry out an aggressive public
enlightenment that will protect all those living and doing business in
the State from the disease.
“This decision was taken because we understand that we are the
headquarters of the Hydrocarbon Industry and also a major commercial hub
in the country that attracts people from all walks of life.”
The Rivers State Governor noted that with actions taken, the State is
alert to address any situation.
“The committee had since its inauguration carried out Stakeholder
Engagement with Community Development Committees, Religious Groups,
Principals and Head teachers of schools, Traders Association, National
Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Military, Paramilitary, Police,
International Oil Companies and The Association of Local Government
Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGON).
“In addition to this, radio and television jingles, flyers and
billboards have been fully utilised by the committee to pass the
prevention message to all the nooks and crannies of the State.”
The Governor added: “The State Ministry of Health has also been
empowered to set up intervention resources:
“i. 158 Surveillance and Ad-hoc personnel have been trained.
“ii. One Treatment Centre, Holding Centers in the Two Teaching Hospitals
and all General Hospitals in the State are fully functional.
“iii. All Health Workers, both private and public have been trained and
briefed on Infection Control Measures and appropriate use of Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE),Hand Sanitizers have been procured, Infrared
thermometers have been procured and Stockpiling of other commodities and
equipment and we have redoubled surveillance at our Airports, Seaports,
Waterways and Land routes.”
Governor Wike pleaded for the understanding of Rivers people.
He said: “My dear good people of Rivers State, as painful as these
decisions may seem, it is a sacrifice we must make to protect ourselves
in the face of recent developments.
“Let me assure all those resident in the State, that the State
Government under my leadership is ready and willing to protect their
lives at all times.
“May I therefore call for the understanding and collective support of
all and sundry to keep our State safe from coronavirus.
Together, we shall win with God on our side.”