Anambra State experienced a total lockdown as Governor Chukwuma Soludo mandated residents to participate in cleaning gutters and drainage throughout the region. The initiative, which took place from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., saw widespread community involvement.
Participants adhered to the directive, although the enforcement by police and security agencies drew some criticism. Several motorists were detained for non-compliance, particularly those transporting national newspapers from Asaba, Delta State, to vendors in Onitsha. This action raised questions about the interpretation of the lockdown, especially since the order exempted essential workers, including journalists and health personnel.
Dr. Law Mefor, the state’s Commissioner for Information, reported positive outcomes from the initiative, underlining its intention to conduct these sanitation exercises regularly. The goal is to ensure thorough removal of debris, thereby promoting public health throughout Anambra State.