COVID-19: Imo relaxes lockdown order for Easter shopping

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has temporarily relaxed the total lockdown order he imposed on the state to allow movement and opening of businesses on Friday, April 10.

The governor also told the people of the state not to congregate for Easter Church services but observe them online or through the electronic media.

This is just as he announced that the lockdown would continue from Saturday, April 11.

The new directive is contained in a statement issued by the state commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba, who said the approval is for the people of the state and residents to shop for food items for the Easter celebrations.

“This means that the total lockdown of the state will be temporarily relaxed on Friday April 10, to enable Imo people and residents shop only for food items for the Easter celebrations.

“Consequently food markets and food vending supermarkets will be allowed to open from 6 am to 6pm tomorrow. All concerned are advised to adhere strictly to the time allowed and ensure that they shop only for food items”, the statement reads in part.

Emelumba added that boutiques, jewellery shops and all other non-food markets and outlets would remain shut on that day, maintaining that the total lockdown of the state would resume with full force from Saturday, April 11, 2020.

He advised the people of the state to observe the Easter Sunday church services on-line or through the Electronic media as it affects their respective denominations.

“Security agencies are under firm orders to ensure that the lockdown order is strictly adhered to and that those caught in violation are promptly arrested and prosecuted.

“The governor appeals to Imo people to take the total lockdown order with the utmost seriousness it deserves as every measure taken is aimed at keeping the COVID 19 pandemic far from the state and the people”.