* Ikpeazu

By Chidinma Omar

Abia Governor Okezie Ikpeazu will Wednesday morning address the State on issues pertaining to the total lock down which includes shut down of markets and prohibition of vehicular movement within the State excluding those on essential duties. The lock down begins that day

Already, the State early Sunday morning shut its boundaries with other States restricting movement of vehicles in and out of the State.

The above measures were  recommendation of the state’s Inter-ministerial Committee on COVID-19
to keep the State free from the pandemic

The State Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, who spoke Monday night said  the total lock down would be in force for one week in the first instance and thereafter reviewed whether to continue or not.

Kalu, also a member of the committee who reacted to observations on the effectiveness of vehicular movement in and out of the State, explained that the Police and security agencies were briefed and mobilised Monday to ensure full compliance and the restriction would become more effective subsequently.

He further spoke on measures being taken to cushion the effects of the total lock down. "So far, funds for payment of salaries for 72 out of 75 MDAs have been released. Monies have also been released for payment of pensioners and teachers.

" We have also identified vulnerable people like elderly and widows without income, and other categories of people who might not be able to cater for themselves during the period. Government has put in place palliative measures and will use its structures from traditional rulers, LGA administrative structures and other agencies to reach such people.

During the lock down, Kalu said provision stores and pharmaceuticals will attend to customers on demand, but fully protected with face masks and gloves