Clement Nnachi, Abakaliki
Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State has lifted the ban on religious worships and gatherings in the state.
This is after five weeks of closure of churches, mosques and other religious centers in the state.
The lifting of the ban will take effect from 15th May, 2020 with the condition that religious centers conduct their worship once in a week.
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In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation and acting Commissioner Human Capital Development and Monitoring, Barr. Uchena Orji, emphasised that the waiver was in response to the passionate appeal made by the Leadership of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ebonyi State chapter.
According to the commissioner, “Other bodies that made the appeal for the re-opening of religious centers includes some Revered Bishops among other clergy.
The statement noted that the re-opening of the worship centers would be under strict observance of COVID-19 policy and State laws.
The statement said that Governor Umahi, after having prayerfully reviewed the request and in consultation with state leaders, “directed that religious centres in the state do re-open for worship once a week, effective from 15th May, 2020 under attendant conditions
The statement further added that wearing of face masks, washing of hands with running water and use of hand sanitizers must be strictly observed in all religious centres.
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“No religious service is allowed to hold any other day other than the days specified herein and which must be in strict observance of all COVID-19 Laws and regulations.
“Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has a duty to close down any religious gathering and arrest the principal of the worship centre that violates this order.”
The statement also urged all religious bodies in the state to use the opportunity of window of worship to create awareness among their members on the protocols, policies, laws and regulations regarding COVID-19 and to pray for the state and Nigeria
