Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau has directed total lockdown in the state with effect from 12 midnight of Thursday April 9 to 11p.m of Wednesday, April 15, 2020.
Lalong made the announcement in Jos on Monday at the Government House during a news briefing.
“During this period, there will be no movement of any kind except for staff on essential duty.
“These include security agencies, medical and health workers, power and energy staff, fire service, media, telecom operators and fuel tankers,” he said.
He said government had purchased Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), monitors, infrared thermometers, oxygen and other essential drugs, adding that testing of COVID-19 would commence in Jos in a few days time.
“In line with the Federal Government directive, we propose to establish a 300 bed treatment center to be located at the Riyom General Hospital and the state National Youth Service Corp Orientation Camp,” he said.
He said the state in collaboration with partners and the federal government, was making efforts to address challenges arising from COVID-19 in the state and provision of palliatives for indigents.
Lalong appreciated organisations like Grand Cereals, the United Bank of Africa (UBA), NASCO Group of Companies and Mee Palace for their various contributions of food stuff, hand sanitisers and enlightenment materials among others to the state to control the spread of the virus.
He also commended individuals who were using the COVID-19 Plateau platform in reporting incidence directly to the situation room, saying it has enabled government to take timely action.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that Mr Pius Akubo, was the first individual to donate money to the state COVID-19 fund, through N500,000 cash donation.(NAN)