LOCKDOWN CONTINUES TILL 30TH APRIL IN AKS AS SPECIAL COURT IS INAUGURATED TO PROSECUTE OFFENDERS

Chief Justice of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Godwin Abraham on Wednesday inaugurated a special court for the trial of offenders of Quarantine and restriction of movement regulations, 2020.

During his briefing, Justice Abraham said that a designated court was necessary for the purpose of speedy trial, but added that Chief magistrates in the various designated courts could also attend to other urgent matters of public importance.

Justice Abraham told journalists that the designated courts are available in the three Senatorial districts of Akwa Ibom state with an intention to create an addition in Uyo once necessary.

Courts in Akwa Ibom state are not sitting due to Covid-19 pandemic. For government to be able to enforce quarantine and restriction of movement regulations, 2020, Chief Magistrates had to be inaugurated for the special assignment. The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom state pledged to provide personal protection equipments in all the courts that the designated Chief Magistrates are to sit. He however enjoined all judicial officers to maintain social distancing and other necessary anti Covid-19 precautionary measures.

Speaking on the development, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Uwemedimo Nwoko said that the court was necessary to avoid unlawfulness. He urged Akwa Ibom people to stay at home for the period the quarantine and restriction of movement regulation stipulates.

Clearing the air on the timeline of the lockdown, Barr. Nwoko said that against assumptions that the lockdown is to expire this week, that the order that was signed by Governor Udom Emmanuel has 30th April as it’s expiry date. He added that the law can only be reviewed for a possible extension where necessary after the 30th of April.

The law stipulates that defaulting individuals are to pay 10,000 Naira fine and community service for 7days.

Impounded Tricycles, Motorbikes, Cars, trucks are to pay 7,000, 20,000 and 50,000 Naira respectively upon being found guilty.
The law also stipu 7days community service in addition to fines.