IgbereTV reports that the Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has warned patent medicine dealers against treating suspected COVID-19 patients in the state.

He expressed worry that the patent medicine dealers are putting their lives at risk with this practice.

In a statement on Thursday by the Secretary to Abia State Government/Chairman, Inter-Ministerial Committee on Covid-19, Barr. Chris Ezem, the governor also announced that the government has commenced community testing in order to tackle further community spread of COVID-19.

The statement reads: "In a renewed vigor to avert further community spreading of the deadly Covid-19 Pandemic in Abia State, Government has commenced Community testing in all the LGAs in the State. Abians and residents are encouraged to present themselves for this all-important exercise."

"Similarly, in order to take the message on Covid-19 down to the communities/wards, Government will be flagging off Covid-19 Sensitization Committee in the 17 LGAs in the State with major flag-off at Aba South LGA Town Hall on the 19th of August, 2020."

"However, Government have noticed an unwholesome trend where most Patent Medicine Dealers are now treating suspected covid-19 patients in the State. The trend is not only worrisome as government is concerned more about the safety and exposure of our Patent Medicine Store Dealers/Pharmacists. Consequently, Government will be holding Interactive Sessions with these group on Covid-19 and their expected roles on 20th August, 2020 at Michael Okpara Auditorium."

The government also announced that Markets will now operate from Mondays to Saturdays from 7am to 5pm daily, saying it is now compulsory for both sellers and buyers at these markets to wear their face masks and maintain all other covid-19 protocol.

The statement further reads: "In view of the flagrant abuse of Burial/Wedding ceremonies, Government directs that going forward, all applicants for approval for these events will apply through the TC Chairman of the LG to the Office of the SSG and must complete the newly designed Undertaking Form to comply with all Covid-19 Protocol failing which, the applicant/priest or traditional ruler in-charge, will face prosecution."

"Burials will continue to hold only on 1st and 3rd week of the month, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays only."

"Religious worship shall continue to hold on Sundays with only 50 persons and all wearing face masks plus compliance to other covid-19 protocols. Government hereby lift the ban on mid-week activities but strictly in compliance with the protocols as to 50 persons only all wearing face mask etc."

"Eateries are now allowed to operate fully but must be sure that all sitting arrangement are arranged with social distance in view and operators must wear their face masks at all time. The provision of running water, infra-raythermometer and sanitizers at all-time remain compulsory. Event places, clubs and cinemas are to remain closed in line with Federal Government directives."

"Curfew is still in operation from 10pm to 6am in line with Federal Government directive and all security agencies and Local Government Enforcement Team are to enforce compliance."

"Government directs that all civil servants from Grade Level 12 and above are now to resume work from Monday to Friday effective 17th day of August, 2020."

"The Police and other security operatives are hereby directed to ensure full compliance with all Government directives."

"Cultural and traditional festivals are hereby banned till further notice."