The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has stated earlier this morning that he cant declare total lockdown in Bauchi State because his people must eat.
He said this while commiserating with traders of Muda Lawal market on the inferno that destroyed some shops and properties that worths millions in the market, he said government would, however enforce a minimal lockdown.
He adviced his people to maintain social distancing to halt the spread of COVID-19.
“On behalf of the government of Bauchi State, we came to commiserate with you over this monumental loss in this Musa Lawal Market, which is one of the biggest markets in Bauchi,” he said.
” I understand that about 17 shops have been burnt and one life was lost; the state government will take steps to cushion the effects of the losses by bringing some palliatives immediately, so that the traders will go back to business.
“I want to seize this opportunity to tell you that COVID-19 is a reality, i just came out of it and my experience is no joke.
“I advice you to continue to exercise social distancing as we are going to enforce minimal lockdown, but we cant afford total lockdown because people must eat”
His Excellency Governor Bala Mohammed who said God tested his faith with COVID-19, added that he had ordered the complete closure of all borders leading to the state.
“I want to place on record that the borders of Bauchi has all been closed and they will remain closed. Since we have over 20 cases in Kano, be sure we have to really man our borders to make sure no goods or persons come from Kano and nobody from your market goes to Kano,” he said.
“And of course, we too are not going to Gombe, Yobe, Jos or Taraba; we should try to exist alone by ourselves.”