As the Akwa Ibom State Government gradually reopens the economy for residents and business operators, livestock marketers have appealed for the re-opening of the livestock market at Itam.
Leader of the livestock sellers who also doubles as the Leader of the Hausa Community in the State, Alhaji Hassan Sadauki made the appeal during a meeting with the Chairman of the Covid-19 Management Committee and Secretary to State Government, Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem.
Alhaji Hassan Sadauki assured that the livestock market Community will abide by the Safety protocols for Covid-19 as recommended by Government.
He lamented that the unfortunate closure of the livestock market has brought untold hardship to the dealers on livestock hence the need to give consideration to re-opening of the market.
According to him, most of them are solely dependent on the business for the upkeep of their families, and will do everything to protect their source of income by adhering strictly to the Government guidelines.
The Secretary to State Government, Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem while commending the peaceful co-existence among Nigerians from all tribes resident in Uyo reiterated Governor Udom Emmanuel’s commitment to the welfare and protection of all.
He cautioned against abuse of the situation when eventually the livestock market will be re-opened.
The Secretary to State Government noted that the erroneous notion peddled by some individuals that Covid-19 is a make-believe was very dangerous for the society, as the disease has gotten to a stage that if not properly managed, new cases can skyrocket through Community spreading.
He commended Governor Udom Emmanuel for his total support in the fight against Covid-19 since April this year when the State began the fight.
He assured that the request will be communicated to the Governor and reviewed by the Incident Management Team for further action.
Dr Ekuwem warned that anytime the protocol is breached by the smuggling of unauthorized persons alongside livestock, into the State, or failure to be safety conscious will attract drastic actions which may include a closure of the livestock market.
