Kwara state government has imposed a partial lockdown in the state from 12 midnight to 4 am with effect from Thursday, December 24, 2020.

The lockdown was contained in the new guidelines on COVID-19 issued on Wednesday by the state Technical Committee on COVID-19.

Addressing a press conference in Ilorin, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Raji Rasaq who doubles as the vice-chairman of the Technical Committee on COVID-19 said, “There shall be partial statewide lockdown between 12 am and 4:30a.m. until further notice.

“These new guidelines take effect from Thursday, December 24, 2020.”

Other measures announced by the committee included, “Appropriate use of face mask in public places is mandatory. Concerts/carnivals/Clubbing are not allowed until further notice.

“Worship centres are not to allow congregations exceeding 50% of the maximum capacity of the venue. This is to allow for physical distancing.

“Other gatherings (formal and informal) exceeding 50 people are disallowed. Again, proper use of face masks in public spaces is mandatory. Therefore, the protocol of ‘No face mask, no entry’ must apply at all public places.

“Civil servants are to work from their homes. The only exemptions are essential workers, especially in the health sector. Virtual meetings are encouraged.

“Transporters are to enforce all COVID-19 protocols, including proper use of face mask by drivers and passengers. Appropriate sanctions will apply to defaulters,” the governor added.

The Health Commissioner added that Security agencies will deploy all lawful means to enforce these protocol and defaulters are deemed to constitute dangers to public health. Provisions of the Kwara State Infectious Diseases Regulations 2020 shall apply to all offenders.