Journalists, Health Workers, Others Exempted From Curfew And Lockdown Orders - Police Ig
Yesterday, many health workers and journalists were arrested by policemen carrying out the lockdown order in Lagos State against the directive of the President, Muhammadu Buhari who in his Nationwide Speech and executive order exempted essential workers from the lockdown law. There was a general outcry by all concerned as this is a violation of an international rule and also the President's directive.
When confronted, the police who had made the arrests and the Police Commissioner said they were acting of a new order from the Inspector-General of Police. The Lagos State CP was also seen on TV stating that NO-ONE is exempted from the curfew and lockdown order. He said even those on essential duties must not be seen outside after 8PM within the city or around the state borders.
However, as at this morning, the IGP has made a U-turn on this order, now directing his men to exempt journalists, health workers and others on essential duties from being arrested during the curfew and intrastate movements.
This directive was circulated by the Force HQ PR person, Frank Mba. It reads below:
RE: Covid-19: Enforcement of Restriction Orders
All essential workers including Medical Personnel, Firefighters, Ambulance Services, Journalists, etc are exempted from the restriction of movement associated with both the partial lockdown and the national curfew across the Federation.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Mohammed A. Adamu has therefore directed all Zonal Assistant Inspectors General of Police and Commands Commissioners of Police to give effect to these exemptions whilst enforcing the restriction orders.
DCP Frank Mba
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters
Abuja
19 May 2020.
We sincerely hope the police in the nooks are crannies of Lagos will adhere to this new order as some of them have been known to be overzealous in carrying out such orders mainly to extort money from violators.
Journalists should also ensure they don't wander unnecessarily if they have nothing doing outside.
Written by Emdee David
Posted by: Emdee David
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