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Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Wednesday directed religious centres to reopen for two weeks after holding separate meetings with Christian and Muslim leaders in the state.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ismail Omipidan, stated that the governor disclosed that the decision to reopen worship centers partially was in response to the request by religious leaders and the resolve of the Federal Government to lift the ban on religious activities.
He said the state government had prepared some guidelines that must be followed to forestall possible spread of coronavirus as a result of the reopening, adding that further actions by the government would be determined by the effect of compliance level to the guidelines by churches and mosques during the two weeks.
Reeling out some of the guidelines at the meeting held in at the Governor’s Offic, Abere, and Government House respectively, Oyetola said regular church services of not more than one hour, and maximum of two services would be allowed, while Jumat service including khutbah (sermon) and prayers must not exceed 20 minutes.
According to the governor, “vulnerable individuals such as those from age 65 and above and people with underlying ailments such as tuberculosis, diabetes, among others, are to continue worshipping at their respective homes.
“All churches and mosques premises be fumigated to ensure that the worship environments are free of virus and other infectious diseases.
“Worshipers are to keep reasonable space in churches and mosques and no worship centres must be filled during any service respectively. There should be the provision of washing facilities or sanitisers for worshipers before entering the churches and mosques.
“Also, the use of face mask is important, sharing of worship devices such as microphones and other musical gadgets should be discouraged. Water and food distribution during service should be discouraged.
“Worshippers must avoid the exchange of banters and social distancing must be strictly observed. Windows in churches and mosques should be opened during worship for ventilation. Signage and notices should be placed at strategic locations to remind worshippers of best hygiene practices to be observed.”
He also mandated churches and mosques to provide thermometers to check the temperature of worshippers, adding that whoever is with high temperature should not be allowed into the worship centres.
The governor added that vigils and children’s activities remain suspended, adding that worship centres with the support of security operatives should set up a taskforce to enforce compliance with measures put in place by the government.
Oyetola who expressed satisfaction with the positive effect of his administration’s pro-activeness in curbing the spread of coronavirus in the state, appreciated the leadership of both religions for their cooperation and understanding since the lockdown began in the state.