31st March, 2020
Governor Dapo Abiodun has explained why Ogun delayed the lockdown ordered by President Muhammadu Buhari till Friday 3 April.
The two-week lockdown meant to roll back the spread of coronavirus affected Ogun, as well as Lagos and Federal Capital Territory of Abuja. It was to begin 11pm on Monday.
Ogun government said the adjustment in the date was done in conjunction with the presidency, according to a statement by chief press secretary, Kunle Somorin.
“The Governor consulted with the Presidency to request that whilst the interstate borders and border with Republic of Benin should close at 11pm on Monday as directed by the President, there was a need to shift the lockdown in Ogun State for intra-city movement to Friday, 3rd April.
“This request is to enable the residents to prepare for the period of the lockdown and for the State to procure and finalise the mechanisms of distributing food and other relief materials to the residents.
“The Presidency graciously demonstrated understanding and granted the request. This is what the mischief makers would like to twist to create an imaginary dissonance between the President’s directive and the need to adapt it to our peculiar situation in the state.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the interstate and international borders with Ogun State will close at 11pm on Monday as directed by the President, whilst the total lockdown will be effective from 11pm on Friday,” Ogun State Government said.
“This is not the time to play dirty politics with the health and welfare of our people. Ogun State Government will not be distracted in its avowed commitment to stem the tide of coronavirus and wishes to thank Mr. President for his support and solidarity,” the statement concluded.
The State had announced closure of its boundaries with other states and the international border with Benin Republic on Saturday, 28 March, 2020 as part of the measures to curtail the spread of coronavirus in the state.