Plateau state on Saturday issued a warning to the spiritual leader of Jamma’atu Izalatil Bid’a Waikamatis Sunnah, Sheik Sani Yahaya Jingir, for flouting safety measures issued by the state government.
“The government takes exception to the nonchalance and flagrant disregard of the directives by some individuals and groups who have remained recalcitrant,” he said in a statement signed by the Secretary to the Government of the State Daladi Atu.
The governor had on Wednesday issued restrictions closing all markets except those selling food items, pharmaceuticals and cooking gas; no congregation of more than 50 people at places of worship, strict observance of at least 2-metres and provision of hygienic materials such as water, sanitizers and soap.
But Sheik Jingir on Friday said himself and other members of the group attended Jumma’at prayers because Governor Simon Lalong didn’t ask them to stop observing the prayer, adding that since there were no cases of the disease in Plateau, there was no reason not to attend the weekly prayer.
“They have also mobilised their followers to disobey the orders of Government, which is meant to protect the lives of the people.
“Let me categorically make it clear that nobody is above the law and government is taking necessary action. In line with the directive of government for full implementation of compliance, the Governor has asked Security agencies to take the necessary measures on such persons, ” Lalong warned.
Among other measures, tricycles can carry only passenger and saloons can carry four passengers.
A restriction on vehicles into Plateau from all entry points between 6pm and 7am takes effect Sunday.
