The Governor of Ogun state, Dapo Abiodun, has announced the decision to reopen churches and mosques in the state, to take effect from Friday, August 14.
The weekend lockdown has been in full force in the state since March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit Nigeria. The lockdown was instated to curb the further spread of the virus.
In a press release, the Governor revealed that after thorough deliberation, consideration and resolution by the committee which consists of top religious leaders and other government representatives, the state has decided to reopen the worship centres.
Excerpts from Dapo’s statement:
“After thorough deliberation, consideration and resolution, we decided to reopen the worship centres with effect from Friday 14th August, 2020 as indicated in my last address. This decision was made in line with agreement reached by the committee set up to develop guidelines for reopening of the religious centres.
“The Committee includes the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN); the League of Imams and Alfas and Government representatives. I am delighted to note that reports reaching us indicate varying but encouraging level of preparedness by the Worship Centres. Therefore, today, Friday, 14th August is hereby confirmed for the commencement of operations of the Worship Centres, subject to the guidelines.
“Let me say that now that our worship centres are open for activities, the restrictions on weekends are lifted, but the limitation on social gatherings not exceeding 20 people at any place at the same time is still very much in force”, the governor said.
