COVID-19: Gov. Akeredolu Grants Churches Permission To Host Easter Service, CAN Hails Decision

By Akinwale Kasali

Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo has brought smiles to the faces of Christians in the State, following his decision to allow churches hold Easter Services, despite the lockdown of religious centers Nationwide, due to the outbreak of the deadly Pandemic, Coronavirus.

The Governor however issued some conditions the churches must adhere to with a view to curbing the spread of COVID-19.

In a statement by chairman of Ondo chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, (CAN), Reverend John Oladapo, said social distancing order would be observed diligently.

Oladapo stressed that the CAN leadership met with the State Government to rub minds on how to hold Easter Sunday worship service, which was granted by Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, which was highly appreciated.

Oladapo stated that CAN agreed to adhere to handwashing with soap, water and sanitisers as well as limiting services to 20 people in a small church building, 50 persons in a medium size while big and cathedrals must maintain 3 congregants at different intervals.

He said the Easter services would hold between 7am and 12noon on Sunday and warned against posting the church services on social media.

Commissioner for information and Orientation, Donald Ojogo, in his explanation, said there was no need for any misgivings, that the Ondo State Government felt like giving the Christians the opportunity to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ together.

Ojogo said the position of CAN and the Government should be seen as mutually inclusive.

He said the state government has communicated the concession granted CAN to the Ondo State Police Command that it was to allow the celebration of Easter Sunday in churches.

According to him: “CAN’s statement is explicit enough that Government had graciously granted a special relief to it”.

CAN however showered encomium on the Governor for the kind gesture which they wouldn’t take for granted, but adhere strictly to the orders of the Ondo State Government.