By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Anambra State Government has directed the closure of markets in the state as part of measures to stop the spread of the Coronavirus.

According to a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Solo Chukwulobelu, all markets in the state will be closed ‪from Monday, March 30, 2020 for a period of 14 days.

He said that only businesses selling food items and medicines are authorized to stay open during the time of closure, but urged operators of such business to observe social distance protocols as well as other coronavirus health advisory already in place in the state.

The statement partly reads: “During the 14-day period also, traders should stay at home and not move about.

“This directive will be reviewed at the end of the 14-day period and further directives will be communicated.

“The executive and members of Anambra State Market Traders Association (ASMATA), executive and members of various market associations, market men and women are hereby directed to strictly comply with this directive.

“Members of Anambra state Covid-19 Task Force, the police and other security agencies should strictly enforce this directive. This is in the best interest of all of us. Please help us to fight this pandemic.”

News Express reports that the closure of markets in the state, especially the Onitsha main market, was delayed following market leaders appeal to the state governor, Willie Obiano, to allow markets to remain open with a promise of adhering to the rules of social distancing, washing of hands and placing of hand sanitizers in shops for themselves and shoppers respectively.

However, the promise appear not to be strictly followed as market leaders two days ago warned that traders flouting the government order will have their shops locked up.