By Onome Oghenetega
The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced the cancellation of the public gatherings to celebrate the 33rd anniversary of the state creation.
It said the decision is in view of the envisaged difficulty in enforcing the COVID-19 guidelines and protocols.
Akwa Ibom has recorded 280 COVID-19 infections since the outbreak of the pandemic in the country.
The state was created out of Cross River State on September 23, 1987 by the then Military Administration of General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida.
In a statement by the Secretary to the State Government and Chairman, COVID-19 Management Committee, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, on Sunday said the decision was in the best interest of the people of the state.
ALSO READ: Edo 2020: INEC, Security Agencies Must Remain Neutral – PDP Warns
He said the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel prioritised the health and safety of the people of the state before coming up with the cancellation.
Ekuwem said, “In continuation of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, the Governor of Akwa Ibom state, His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has approved that there should be no public gatherings to celebrate the 33rd anniversary of the creation of our dear Akwa Ibom State on 23 September, 2020.
“This directive is in response to the difficulty that can be experienced in enforcing compliance with AKSG/NCDC/WHO COVID-19 guidelines and protocols during big state-wide celebrations.
“This decision is taken in the interest of public health and safety of the citizens of Akwa Ibom state. The health, lives and wellbeing of Akwa Ibomites must be prioritised over any celebrations.
“The Governor however invites all citizens to deeply reflect on the historical struggle for the creation of our state and apply themselves to worthy causes that will continue to positively transform and uplift the name of our state”
