The Nigeria government has threatened to persecute face masks defaulters as regards to the new phase of preventive measures and containment of COVID19 as Nigeria attempts to ease total lockdown order from May 4.
Part of the guidelines which were signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, stated that anyone without a face mask in public will be prosecuted.
The guidelines were also specific about information to the general public, guidance to states and security agencies and description of activities allowed under the new phase.
According to Mustapha, “Anyone without a face mask on will be asked to return home and will be prosecuted.
“Anyone who presents a temperature of above 38ºC will be mandated to return home and call NCDC for evaluation.
“Anyone violating the curfew in a non-emergency situation will be prosecuted. Anyone attending a gathering of more than 20 people will be prosecuted.
“Any member of the public who violates the ban on Inter-State movement as outlined in this guideline will be prosecuted.”
The statement also stated guidelines for the ease of lockdown in Lagos, Ogun and the FCT.
It reads, “Following improvements in the multi-sectoral response to COVID 19 pandemic, the Federal Government of Nigeria has decided that there will be a phased and gradual easing of the lockdown in Lagos and Ogun States as well as the Federal Capital Territory effective from Monday, 4th May 2020.
“The easing of the lockdown will be characterised by the mandatory use of non-medical face mask/covering for all persons while in public spaces. Latex hand gloves should not be worn except for specific medical purposes.
