Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, says the lockdown measure imposed on Port Harcourt City and Obio-Akpor Local Government Areas is aimed at protecting the lives of the people from the deadly Coronavirus.
Speaking when he monitored the lockdown on Thursday, Governor Wike said he understands the suffering of the people, but insisted that the temporary lockdown has become necessary in order to prevent the spread of the disease in the state.
The Rivers State Security Council had, while reviewing measures put in place to mitigate and protect the people of the state from Coronavirus, approved the measure following the refusal of residents in the two local government areas to comply with established directives on COVID-19.
Offices and businesses were under lock and key, while the streets were deserted except for a few motorists on essential duty.
On hand to ensure compliance with the lockdown order were security personnel detailed to man strategic points in the two local government areas.
Governor Wike also had course to arrest some persons violating the lockdown order saying the defaulters will be prosecuted.
But word soon reached the Governor that a senior police officer had ordered the release of all the persons arrested for violating the lockdown order.
Governor Wike quickly summoned a Security Council meeting to further address the matter.
