The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors ’ Forum , Dr Kayode Fayemi , has urged the President , Major -General Muhammadu Buhari ( retd ) , to support the governors ’ decision on inter – state lockdown as part of efforts to curb the spread of the virus .

Fayemi , in his letter to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation , Mr Boss Mustapha , who is also the Chairman , Presidential Task Force on COVID- 19 , said the President should note the exclusion of the movement of essential supplies such as foods, beverage, medical and pharmaceuticals, petroleum supplied and agricultural products .

He added that it was the decision of the governors that Buhari should include compulsory use of face masks by Nigerians when in public places .

“ The NGF would want the following incorporated into Mr . President ’ s pronouncement : Inter – state lockdown excluding movement of essential supplied such as foods, beverage, medical and pharmaceuticals, petroleum supplied and agricultural products .

“ Internal free movement but with restrictions on large gathering and assemblies , overnight curfews , compulsory use of face masks/coverings of the public , ” Fayemi said .