A file photo of Rivers state Governor, Nyesom Wike.
The Rivers State Government on Saturday cancelled the concession granted churches to hold Easter church services with their full congregations amid a coronavirus pandemic.
On Thursday, Governor Nyesom Wike had urged Muslims in the state to observe Jumaat prayers on Friday and Christians to hold services with their full congregation on Easter Sunday.
READ ALSO: COVID-19: Ondo Cancels Easter Services
But less than 24 hours to Easter Sunday, the state government rescinded its decision.
“This decision was taken after due consultations with eminent clergymen, well-meaning Nigerians and civil society groups,” state commissioner for Information and Communication, Paulinus Nsirim, said in a statement.
“For the avoidance of doubt, churches should stick to the 50 persons per service to maintain social distancing,” the statement added.
On Friday, the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu had urged all Christians in the country to maintain physical distancing and avoid large crowds.
“We need to pay a short term price for a long term goal and physical distancing is probably the most important tool,” he stressed.
Governments across levels have rolled out palliative measures including the distribution of food items to…
One of Africa's longest bridges has been under repairs for weeks, causing gridlock to motorists…
Umahi believes the TInubu-led government is on the right path to restoring the country's dignity.
South Africa’s delegation, including 24 players, will land in Abuja on Monday evening.
The reigning champions will host the Nigerian side in the return leg on Sunday next…
A veto by Austria however means the new status will not apply to land routes…