By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Traditional rulers in Anambra State on Thursday expressed worry over the increased exportation of Almajiris from the northern part of the country to the Southeast.

In a communiqué released after their expanded committee meeting which held at the council hall, Government House, Awka, the traditional rulers regretted that many of the Almajiris may have already been infected with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The communiqué, which was signed by the Chairman, Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council and Obi of Onitsha, Obi Alfred Achebe, and his deputies, the traditional ruler of Okpuno, Igwe Sunday Okafor; and the traditional ruler of Okakwu Odekpe, Igwe Chuma Onyia read in part: “We urge the state government to ensure that the Almajirai do not enter the since. They will not fit into the state’s economic, social and cultural environment.

“Government should not relent in its fight against the long-standing menace of some cattle herdsmen.

“We commend Governor Willie Obiano for his exemplary leadership in the fight against COVID-19, prompt establishment of Isolation Centres at Mbaukwu/Umuawulu and other locations in the state, regular updates and broadcasts to his people, public enlightenment, mobilisation as well as protection of the state borders and entry points.”

While pledging their continued support to the state government, the monarchs urged Anambra people and Nigerians at large to strictly observe all the COVID-19 health and safety directives, which include regular hand washing, wearing of appropriate face-masks, maintaining physical distancing, avoiding gathering of more than 30 persons, healthy eating and staying home unless one absolutely has to go out.

They added that “being alive in good health, citizens can collectively defeat the pandemic.”