Coronavirus: Kaduna LG boss orders closure of all markets

Mr Peter Averik, Chairman of Jema’a Local Government in Kaduna State, has ordered the complete closure of Kafanchan main market and other markets within the area.

A statement signed by the area’s information officer Simeon Dauda quoted Averik as saying that the closure became necessary to prevent an outbreak of the Coronavirus in the area.

“This decision is informed by a sincere sense of responsibility and commitment to ensure the safety of people against the pandemic.

“The local government is not prepared to lose anyone to the pandemic; precautionary measures or strategies taken towards this end can never be too much,” he said

Averik, however, said that shop owners, who sell food and drugs outside the market environment, would be allowed to operate provided they are organised.

“This decision is very crucial and necessary in view of the influx of people into the markets and the need to prevent the dreaded pandemic from taking root and spreading in the local government.

“However, shop owners, who sell drugs and foodstuffs along the major streets other than the markets, will be allowed to operate.

“As long as they organise themselves and their customers to avoid crowded situations within their business premises, they will be allowed to operate,” Averik added

According to him, though the measures taken may cause little pain, members of the public must show understanding and patience.

The chairman further called on banks operating in the local government to take precautionary measures to protect their customers from getting infected.

“Specifically, we are advising banks to provide hand sanitizers or water and soap for their customers. They must also ensure that no customer is allowed to operate the ATM without washing his or her hands,” he said.