The Ogun State Government has announced a two – day ban on public gatherings of more than 20 persons and outlawed procession as the nation marks its 60 th Independence Day.

Governor Dapo Abiodun , also imposed a two – day curfew between 10 pm and 6 am from Thursday to Friday which would take effect from Wednesday night .

Abiodun , in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary , Kunle Somorin , said the ban was part the efforts in curtailing the spread of COVID – 19 .

He said , “ All forms of gathering in the state , except the state announced Independence Day Anniversary programme, are restricted to a maximum of 20 persons . ”

The governor also said the state had opted for a low – key celebration of Nigeria ’ s 60 th Independence Anniversary .

He relocated the Diamond Independence Anniversary activities earlier scheduled to hold at the June 12 Cultural Centre , Kuto , Abeokuta to the Arcade Ground of the state secretariat , Oke- Mosan , Abeokuta.

The statement reads partly , “In line with COVID- 19 protocols, admission to the venue will be strictly by invitation . Security and other aides of invited guests will not be allowed into the premises. ”

In the same vein , the Lagos State Government has opted for a low – key celebration of the 60 th Independence Anniversary due to COVID- 19 pandemic .

A statement by the Commissioner for Information and strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, said Governor Babajide Sanwo- Olu had directed that the planned parade and other activities that involve the gathering of more than 50 people should be cancelled .

“ He congratulates Lagosians on this auspicious occasion and strongly advises that they should celebrate quietly at home and pray for the country. They should also observe the COVID- 19 protocols , including wearing of face masks to protect themselves and their loved ones , ” the statement added .

Meanwhile , the state Commissioner of Police , Hakeem Odumosu , has instructed officers and men of the command to disallow any unlawful societies , under whatever disguise , from staging rallies or protests within the state on Thursday ( today ) .

A statement by the state police command ’ s spokesman , SP Muyiwa Adejobi , said , “ CP Hakeem Odumosu similarly warned parents and guardians to warn their children and wards to desist from any rallies , protests or being mobilised to wage war against the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria , or else they (parents or guardians) of any youths arrested for such act will be prosecuted . ”

Similarly, public celebration of 60 th Independence Day in Cross River State has been cancelled by Governor Ben Ayade.

Punch