By Olukayode Idowu, Maiduguri
Borno State Government has called off the lockdown imposed on the state to combat the spread of COVID-19.
The lockdown was imposed three weeks ago after an index case of positive COVID-19 was discovered.
In a press release on Wednesday evening, the Chairman of the State COVID-19 High Powered Committee and Deputy Governor, Alhaji Usman Kadafur said the lockdown has been suspended since the purpose of imposing it has been achieved.
He said: “The lockdown is being suspended indefinitely to study the situation adding however that government may revert to it whenever the situation escalates.
“The use of facemasks by the public be made mandatory and enforcible.
“Government, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and opinion leaders should enforce social distancing especially in public gatherings/worship places.
“There should be restriction in public gatherings especially funeral processions/rites, weddings, name ceremonies to not be more than 20 people.
“Henceforth Juma’at prayers and five daily prayers shall be observed in all mosques as recommended by Borno State Council of Ulamas in strict adherence with the social distancing and the face mask.
“All churches shall conduct church services as recommended by Christian Association of Nigeria, Borno Chapter in strict adherence to social distancing and use of facemasks.
Other conditions were given for public transportation, sales of liquor,
Civil servants from grade 1-12 are asked to continue to work from home expect they are directed otherwise.
Muslims, are in line with the advice of the Council of Ulamas asked to observe the forthcoming Eid prayer at home.