Govt grants CAN request reveals when Churches, Mosques can hold Services

Following in the path of Gombe, Borno, Zamfara and Adamawa governors, David Umahi of Ebonyi State has on Friday lifted the ban on religious gatherings across the State with immediate effect from May 15.

In a statement issued in Abakaliki, through the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Uchenna Orji, it was disclosed that the governor has lifted the ban with immediate effect following an appeal from by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the State.

It was however announced that churches are to conduct their services between the hours of 9 to 11am on Sundays.

“The re-opening of the worship centres must however, be under strict observance of the state laws and must be once a week.
“Seventh Day Adventists and Muslim faithful are to observe their services on Saturdays and Fridays, respectively and also from 9.am to 11.am.

“No religious centre shall permit more than 50 people and worshippers must observe a minimum of two metres social distancing from one another,” he said.

Orji added that wearing of face masks, washing of hands with running water and use of sanitisers must be strictly observed in all religious centres.

“No religious service is allowed to hold any other day than the days specified herein and which must be in strict observance of all COVID-19 laws and regulations,” he added.

Orji added that CAN should arrest any religious leader that violates the order. He also implored the religious leaders to use this moment to preach to their congregation to adhere to the rules of the government.