By Elo Edremoda
The Olu of Warri, His Majesty, Ogiame Ikenwoli, has ordered the suspension of all burial and marriage ceremonies across Warri Kingdom, as part of efforts to curb the spread of the pandemic coronavirus.
This comes on the heels of the economic and social lock down directives by the state governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, as a means to effectively avert an outbreak or contain the spread of the disease.
The traditional ruler in a statement signed by the director of the Warri palace administration, Chief Clement Maleghemi, called on sons and daughters of Itsekiri nationality, as well as residents of Warri South, Warri South-West and Warri North Local Government Areas to adhere strictly to the directives.
He also encouraged them to restrict their gatherings to no more than 20 persons and maintain hygienic lifestyles.
Urging all to show “charity,” towards to one another considering the difficult times, he noted that it is a price everyone must pay in order to survive.
“Following the recent outbreak of the corona virus (COVID-19) in Nigeria and the preventive measures put in place by both the federal and state governments, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Ikenwoli, enjoins all Itsekiri sons and daughters and residents of Warri South, Warri South-West and Warri North local government areas, and those resident outside the three LGAs of the state to strictly comply with the directives so as to stem the spread of this pandemic in the state in general and the three Warri LGAs in particular.
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“In addition to these, all are enjoined to maintain strict hygiene by regular washing of hands with soap under running water, use of hand sanitizers and avoid gatherings of more than 20 persons.
“In this regard and following government directives, the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Ikenwoli, hereby orders that all Itsekiri burial and marriage activities be suspended forthwith throughout the state until the government’s directives are relaxed or lifted.
“These measures are indeed necessary, in regard to the fact that most people are experiencing it for the first time in their lives. But it is a sacrifice we all must make to fight this pandemic,” Ogiame stated.
Okowa had for the third time this week disclosed several safety measures the state is taking to prevent the raging disease, even though no case has been recorded in the state.
He had stated that a final lockdown will take effect from Wednesday, April 1, with all businesses, which include malls, supermarkets, markets and shops closing operations.
Residents are also directed “to stay at home,” as there will be heavy security personnel to ensure compliance.
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