Coronavirus: Oyetola extends relaxation of curfew by 2 weeks

The Governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola, has extended the relaxation of the curfew imposed to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the State by another two weeks, effective from Friday, June 19.

Premium Times earlier reported that Mr Oyetola relaxed the curfew in the state as part of efforts toward reopening of the economy.

Before now, Mr Oyetola ordered reopening of worship centres but insisted that adherents of the two religions would only enjoy one hour of worship each on Fridays and Sundays respectively.

This follows the expiration of the initial two-week relaxation ordered by the Governor on June 5. Following the relaxation two weeks ago, curfew now runs from 9 p.m to 5 a.m daily.

The Governor made the announcement in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan on Thursday in Osogbo, the State capital.

He, however, expressed displeasure at the level of compliance with some of the relaxation guidelines, especially the wearing of face masks in public places.

The governor, therefore, warned that worship centres and markets that fail to adhere to the guidelines would be shut down by the State government.

“COVID-19 is real and Osun is not out of the woods yet. We have noticed that many of our citizens are brazenly flouting the safety guidelines put in place to curb the spread of the virus in the State.

“The government will not fold its hands while a few people jeopardise the mileage we have recorded so far in this fight. It is not yet Uhuru and strict enforcement will commence immediately. Any worship centre, market or motor park where people do not wear a face mask or maintain social distancing will be shut down,” the governor said.

He also reminded the citizens that the ban on inter-state travels remains in force, noting that any motor park that fails to comply with the directive will be shut down as well.