Security operatives go tough, barricade Abuja-Nasarawa boundary

As part of efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, security operatives have barricaded major roads linking Nasarawa State with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The development, which lasted all day, forced a long queue of vehicles to remain standstill under the scorching sun.

Curiously, the security personnel turned down request of those on the presidential exemption list like journalists, health workers and others who were refused access to the FCT to discharge their duties.

The security personnel also turned down an unidentified sick person on dialysis, who was on his knees begging to be allowed access to his hospital in Abuja for treatment.

One of the security personnel said the decision to impose the strict measure was from above, noting, “Even a general was here this morning, he couldn’t pass because he doesn’t have the special permit.

“We are not working with identity card here please. It is a strict directive to avoid free movement of persons.”

FCT Commissioner of Police (CP), Bala Ciroma, who was on hand to oversee the level of compliance, warned residents against flouting government’s directive to shutdown of the FCT and Karu Council Area of Nasarawa State.