By MIKE ODIEGWU, Port Harcourt

Rivers Government has imposed a total lockdown of Bonny Local Government Area and Onne Community in Eleme Local Government Areas with effect from June 21 to check the spread of coronavirus in the state.

Governor Nyesom Wike in a state broadcast on Saturday evening said all residents of Bonny and Onne community, except those on essential services must stay at home.

Wike said: “Pursuant to the fundamental objective of stopping the spread of coronavirus, we have reviewed the situation in Bonny Island and Onne Communities and come to the conclusion that a total lockdown is necessary at this time to shut down the continuing spread of the virus in these communities.

“By this measure, all shops, offices and business places must remain closed.

“All gatherings, including religious, burial and wedding activities are prohibited. All entry and exit into the two communities, except those on essential services and duly permitted, are also banned.

“Security agencies have been directed to enforce the lockdown by arresting and prosecuting anyone who dares to disobey these directives”.

The Governor noted with 866 positive cases out of 2572 tested samples, the state was gradually becoming the next epicenter of the virus in the South-south region of the country.

Wike regretted the nonchalant attitude of those, who blatantly violated the rights of people to good health and public safety by refusing to comply with established guidelines.

He appealed to all residents and visitors to treat the spread of coronavirus with all seriousness by staying at home as much as possible. (The Nation)