As part of efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19, the Ekiti state government has imposed a curfew from 8pm to 6am, while gatherings of more than 20 people are banned until further notice.

The curfew will take effect at 6am on Monday.

Akinbowale Omole, commissioner for information and values orientation, issued the directive via a statement on Sunday.

Omole said the second wave of COVID-19 infections is the reason for the decision, noting that the government is being proactive to secure the lives of residents.

He explained that the curfew will be strictly enforced, but those on essential services are excluded.

The commissioner added that religious faithful are to observe their worship on Friday, Saturday and Sunday accordingly, but ensure that only two services are held for each day, which must not extend beyond 2pm.

As of January 9, 2021, the number of confirmed cases in Ekiti had increased to 434, but 403 recoveries and seven deaths have been recorded.

However, across the country, Nigeria has recorded over 99,000 COVID-19 infections, but over 79,000 patients have recovered.