Mega Churches and mega Mosques (also known as Asalatu) in Nigeria have been reopened as Ogun State, host state to majority of them, lift the ban on Worship Centres.
The headquarters of Mega Churches like the Winners Chapel, Redeemed Christians Church of God (RCCG), Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministry (MFM), Deeper Life Bible Church, as well as the headquarters of NASFAT, Saadatu Abadiyya, Dawah Front of Nigeria (DF) among others are located in the state.
Governor of Ogun state, Dapo Abiodun, said on Friday while giving an update on the efforts of the government to curtail the spread of the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19, in the state, that the ban of these centres and others hve been lifted.
He, however, said the limitation on social gatherings not exceeding 20 people at any place is still in force.
“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,” the governor said.
“This decision was made in line with an 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.”
According to Abiodun, the decision to lift the weekend lockdown was taken due to the opening of worship centres for activities.
He, however, said the limitation on social gatherings not exceeding 20 people at any place is still in force.
“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.
“Observation of dusk-to-dawn curfew as directed by the Presidential Task Force i.e. between 10.00pm and 4.00am daily.
“Wearing of face masks in the public is compulsory and failure to do so is punishable.
“Only one passenger is still allowed for motorcycles and two passengers only for tricycles. Taxi cabs and buses still have 60% limitation on their carrying capacity and non-adherence attracts sanction.
“The COVID-19 Task Force in markets must continue to ensure physical distancing, availability of handwashing facilities, and use of gloves and facemasks for traders. Decontamination will continue in our markets and other public places.”
Abiodun added that the process of reopening Gyms, arcades, swimming pools, barber-shops, spas, beauty Salons, public parks and golf courses is in progress.
