Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has directed all civil servants on grade level 1 to 13 to stay at home till further notice, following the spike on the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.
A statement issued by the state Head of Service, Dr. Rufus Godwins, on Tuesday, confirmed theat the order was in response to the rise in COVID-19 cases in the state.
The statement also said workers from grade level 14 and above should be on duty and assume full responsibilities for their offices till further notice.
The statement read, “Following the current increase in the number of COVID 19 cases, in the second wave of the pandemic, his excellency, the Governor of Rivers State Nyesom Wike, has directed all civil servants on salary scale 01-13 except those on essential duty to stay away from duty forthwith.
“While officers from Grade levels 14 and above, should be on duty and assume full responsibilities for their offices till further notice.
“Accordingly, all Permanent Secretaries and Heads of extra ministerial offices should ensure compliance with this directive and observe strictly all COVID19 protocols.
“This directive which takes effect from Wednesday 20th January 2021, shall remain in force until his excellency directs otherwise, please.
“The government urged all Permanent Secretaries and Heads of extra-ministerial offices should ensure compliance with this directive and observe strictly all Covid-19 protocols.”
The statement further said the directive takes effect from Wednesday, January 20, 2021 and would remain in force till further notice.