The Presidential Taskforce (PTF) on COVID-19 announced the commencement of phase three of the eased lockdown with effect from Friday, September 4, after extending the second phase three times. This new phase is characterised by the resumption of international flight operations, a nationwide curfew between 12am and 4am, an increase in the capacity for mass gatherings in enclosed places outside the workplace to more than 50 persons, provided that physical distancing and other non-pharmaceutical measures are observed. Furthermore, States are expected to put plans in place for the re-opening of educational institutions. Recreational parks, event centres and restaurants are to open for outdoor services while gyms and cinemas are to operate at half capacity. The PTF also reiterated the conduct of elections in line with the published ‘Guidelines for Conducting Elections in the Context of COVID-19.’ This is in the light of the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States, as well as bye-elections in various parts of the country.
It will be recalled that restrictions were put in place by the Federal Government to curb the spread of COVID-19 in March and this has since been eased gradually. Furthermore, President Muhammadu Buhari has extended the lifespan of the PTF from September to December 2020.