By BASSEY ANTHONY, Uyo

There was an atmosphere of panic and hysteria in Akwa Ibom on Friday as residents of the state rushed to buy food commodities and other essential items.

The panic purchases followed an announcement by Governor Udom Emmanuel that there will be a total cessation of movements and prohibition of all events for 14 days.

The two weeks lockdown ordered by Emmanuel in a statewide broadcast was informed by an announcement by the National Centre for Disease Control that there are 5 COVID -19 positive cases in Akwa Ibom State.

Our correspondent who went round some markets in Uyo, Eket, Ikot Ekpene, Abak and Etinan among others noticed an unusual surge in the number of people trying to buy food items.

Similarly, Saturday Nation noticed large crowd of people at banks and ATM points trying to make withdrawals or payments ahead of the lockdown.

Some of the bank customers were frustrated as few ATM machines were dispensing cash.

The governor explained that the 14 days lockdown was to enable a thorough process of contact tracing to identify those who may have been exposed to the five confirmed victims.

“There will be no movement of persons, except those on essential duties who must carry a proper means of identification on them at all times.

“All business premises, markets, shops, motor parks and offices except grocery shops and pharmacies, must remain closed during this period.

Governor Emmanuel insisted that the relevant security agencies have been briefed to ensure strict compliance with the directive.

Although he admitted that no nation was 100% ready for COVID 19, he however assured that the disease has not met the state unprepared.

“Just 2 days ago, I inspected facilities at one of the isolation centres we have prepared for possible cases such as this. This is in addition to the already existing one in Ikot Ekpene, and I can assure you that other facilities are being prepared for similar use should the need for it arise.”

He warned against panic and fear, and enjoined the cooperation of all rather than resort to blame games.

“What we need to do is to stay at home, practice social distancing and good personal hygiene, provide accurate and useful information to health workers whenever necessary.”

He said the virus can be contained if movements are restricted and advised anyone experiencing any of the symptoms of the illness or who has useful information on potential carriers, to immediately call the available emergency numbers.

While admitting that the total lockdown decision was a very tough one, the Governor, however, said it was the most logical step to be taken and assured that God will rescue the state from the evil plague.

“I can promise you that we will leave no stone unturned in the fight against this pandemic. We may have been bruised but we will not be broken. While hoping for the best, we will prepare for the worst, but be rest assured that whatever that worst may be, it will not break us.” (The Nation)

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