COVID-19: WEAR FACE MASKS OR FACE ANOTHER LOCKDOWN — GOV UZODINMA THREATENS IMO RESIDENTS

Reporter:  CHINAZO ILECHUKWU

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has threatened to impose another phase of lockdown in the state if residents continue to flout the COVID-19 preventive guidelines.

In an address to the people of the state, which was held in government House Owerri, the Governor expressed regret that despite appeals and warnings for people to wear face masks in public places many go about their businesses without putting on the mask.

Governor Uzodimma reminded the people that the Executive order, which prevents gathering of more than fifty persons or risk six months imprisonment was still in force, noting that four mobile courts had been put in place to try offenders.

Governor Uzodimma warned that henceforth nobody would be allowed into public places without putting on face masks while directing hotels, eateries, supermarkets religious groups to provide hand washing materials, sanitizers and infrared thermometers in their spaces or face prosecution.

The Governor used the forum to appeal to civil servants not to embark on industrial action as being speculated, warning that he would not hesitate to implement the “No Work No Pay” policy in line with International labour laws.