The Enugu State government has issued a warning that it may shut down schools and markets that comply with an illegal sit-at-home order. In a statement by Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government, it was revealed that reports had been received on Tuesday morning, July 4, indicating that owners of private schools in the state were sending messages to their students instructing them not to attend school from Tuesday onwards. These actions were in response to an alleged one-week sit-at-home order declared by unidentified non-state actors within the state.
The government of Enugu State expressed alarm and disappointment regarding this situation and cautioned that any school failing to resume normal operations from today would have its license immediately revoked. The same warning was also extended to market unions and shop owners in the state. All markets and shops within the various marketplaces must open for customers from today or face indefinite closure.
The government reiterated its prohibition on any form of illegal sit-at-home order throughout the entire state, considering it to be morally wrong and contrary to the values cherished by the people, such as the Igbo spirit of industry, hard work, creativity, and productivity.
The general public has been urged to carry out their daily activities as usual, as adequate security measures have been implemented to safeguard lives and property.
The government declared that it will no longer tolerate anonymous groups and misguided individuals issuing illegal orders, dictating how people should live their lives, when to go to work or the market, and when children should attend school. Meanwhile, these individuals continue their own trade and ensure their children receive an education. This unacceptable situation must be confronted and overcome with all the power and resources at the government’s disposal, as stated in the released statement.