By Abel Ayodele
The Lagos State government has suspended for four all religious gatherings of more than 50 people, in order to contain the spread of Coronavirus.
The enforcement, according to the government, takes immediate effect.
The decision was announced by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Prince Olanrewaju Anofiu Elegushi, after a meeting with religious leaders including the leadership of the Lagos chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Islamic leaders.
In a communique after the meeting, the commissioner said the decision was taken in the interest of Lagos residents.
“We met with religious leaders both Christians and Muslims. We discussed, argued and realised the lives of Lagosians is important to us. Let me assure you the state government is not insensitive to religious activities. We are concerned only the living can worship God. Having discussed extensively, the heads of religious bodies agreed government should embark on massive education of the virus at the grassroots level. Health workers should their games while more should be recruited. Hospitals should be compelled to attend to people without prejudice. In view of this we have decided to suspend all religious activities above 50 people and the enforcement starts with immediate effect,” the commissioner said.
He added that a committee comprising top religious leaders has been set up to ensure compliance.
Speaking after the announcement, the chairman, CAN, Lagos State, Prof. Apostle Alexander Bamgbala said the association is pleased with the development.
“We are going to follow the directive of the government. We are at a critical moment in out nation. God has been hearing our prayers concerting Coronavirus. In view of the increased in number of infected cases, we must be proactive. It is not about religion but survival. We need to listen to government and be proactive so that God will continue to answer us,” he said.