The Akwa Ibom state governor His Excellency Emmanuel Gabriel Udom has given orders for the shutdown of all livestock markets in the state.
The announcement was released today, Monday May 11th 2020, in a written statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem.
Emmanuel Ekuwem who doubles as Chairman, COVID-19 Management Committee Akwa Ibom State said that the shutdown will be effective for the rest of May 2020.
According to the report made available to 9News Nigeria from Akwa Ibom state house in Uyo, markets selling livestocks such as cows, goats and rams should prepare themselves for the shut down which will take effect shortly.
The livestock sellers are advised to sell their old stocks as quickly as possible before the shutdown order becomes effective. However, the date on which the shutdown order implementation will take effect was not clearly stated in the announcement.
The shutdown order letter:
“I have been directed by HE the Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel to announce the immediate shutdown of all livestock market in state for the rest of May 2020.
“By this announcement, no new consignment of livestock – goats, cows and rams, will be allowed into the state until further notice. Livestock sellers are advised to sell off their stock and proceed to shutdown.
“Security agencies have been directed to monitor and ensure full compliance. Defaulters will be prosecuted”.
Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem
Secretary to the State Government
/Chairman COVID-19 Management Committee
Akwa Ibom State
May 11, 2020
