Gov. Sanwo-Olu shuts down Lagos markets over coronavirus

Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered a shutdown of markets across the nation’s most populous city, as Nigeria’s confirmed coronavirus cases continue to rise.

Africa’s biggest economy now has 44 confirmed coronavirus cases at the time of reporting. Lagos’ current tally from that number stands at 29.

Only traders in food and medical items will be allowed to open shop.

The governor announced that all parks, gyms and public markets in the commercial capital, would close on Thursday, March 26, 2020, for at least seven days.

He said Lagos cannot afford a total lock down as some have suggested because of the economic implication, citing millions of residents who cannot afford to stock up on essential items.