The government of Borno State has eased the ban on religious gatherings. The ban was put in place when cases of Coronavirus were recorded in the state.
Churches and mosques have been told they can reopen and comply with strict guidelines on physical distancing maintenance during service but the ban on Eid prayers is still on.
The development was announced through a statement by Borno State’s Deputy Governor and Chairman of the state COVID-19 response committee, Umar Kadafur. While making the announcement, Kadafur said the government would revert to “status quo” if the pandemic escalates.
The statement read: “Henceforth, Jumma’at prayers and five daily prayers shall be observed in all mosques as recommended by the Borno State Council of Ulamas in strict adherence with social distancing and the use of face masks.
“All churches shall conduct church services as recommended by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Borno Chapter in strict adherence with social distancing and use of face masks.
“Government has considered the recommendation of the Borno State Council of Ulamas which clearly states that Eid prayers is Sunnah (non obligatory), hence there should be no Eid prayers. Faithfuls should remain at home during the period.”
Restriction on public gathering is still on as not more than 20 people are expected to be present for events like weddings, funeral processions, house warming and naming ceremonies.
