Nyesom Wike, governor of Rivers state, has accused the federal government of double standards over the relocation of almajiri kids to their states of origin.
In April, northern governors agreed to ban the almajiri system as a part of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19.
States like Kano, Nasarawa and Kaduna have returned some of the almajiri kids to their states of origin.
Speaking with traditional rulers and local council chairmen at the government house on Tuesday, Wike alleged that the federal government did not condemn the repatriation of almajiri kids by some northern states, but that it made a declaration against inter-state movement when Rivers relocated them.
He asked the traditional leaders to set up a task force in their communities to enforce the closure of markets, hotels and pubs across the state.
“When they started relocating the almajiri in the north, the federal government said nothing. Immediately they heard that we have relocated some almajiri, they came up with the declaration that it is against the inter-state movement. Why this double standard?” he asked
“Set up your own task force in your respective domains and implement the closure of markets, hotels and beer parlours.
“This task force is strictly for COVID-19. The state government will support all traditional rulers to carry out these responsibilities.”
The governor also asked council chairmen to ensure they support the traditional rulers to work on the directive.
On the closure of markets, the governor said the state food-purchasing committee would purchase foodstuffs and distribute them to the people.
He also warned that anywhere a market continues to operate in the state, the traditional ruler will lose his recognition and that shops that fail to comply will be demolished.
On the use of face masks, Wike said politicians and traditional rulers will be used as an example if they fail to wear one.
He said: “I want to use politicians and traditional rulers as examples if they fail to wear face masks in their cars. If you are not wearing face masks in your cars, you will be arrested and prosecuted.
“Go home and tell your people, anywhere I see a market operating, the traditional ruler will lose his recognition.
“We must check people entering our state and don’t wait for the support of the federal government. Let’s work to reduce the number.
“As the hotels remain closed, those coming in will have nowhere to stay. When we are safe, we can enjoy what we have. I am not doing this because I hate anyone, but it is for the protection of our people.
“No human being will see death and embrace it. We cannot kill ourselves. The only solution is to ensure social distancing and proper hygiene.”
The state has recorded 14 cases of COVID-19.
