Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed has signed an Executive Order 001 that imposes N5000 fine on those that violate the social distancing practice as enforced by the State Government.
The same applies to those not wearing the compulsory facemask.
According to the new order tagged ”Infectious Disease Prevention Regulation,” violators of the partial lockdown and social distancing directive will be fined by a mobile court.
Speaking shortly after signing the order on Tuesday, Mohammed said the move is to protect residents from further exposure to COVID-19, while ensuring they comply with the partial lockdown and social distancing practice.
The Governor, who disclosed that the order covers the COVID-19 partial lockdown and the State Infectious Disease Prevention Regulations, directed the Chief Judge of the state to with immediate effect, commence its enforcement.
According to him, those on essential services delivery who do not wear mask or observe the social distancing practice will be liable to N5,000 fine by the court set up for that purpose.
Executive Order 001, which takes immediate effect, also stated that anyone arrested for walking around on the street during the period of the lockdown will be fined N5,000 upon conviction just as any vehicle arrested without any permission to come out will be fined N20,000.
Additionally, the order requires that anyone arrested operating commercial motorcycles which has been banned in the state will pay N10,000 as fine if convicted just as any tricycle operator who violates the two passengers limit will pay N10,000 upon conviction by the court.
The Governor said the decision is taken in the best interest of the state to ensure the pandemic do not spread to become community transmission problem.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Yakubu Bello Kirfi, added the government has taken measures to address issues affecting lives, Health and well being of its citizens through certain pronouncement.