The Akwa Ibom state government has relaxed lockdown measures taken to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease in the state up to 1pm on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
The commissioner for information, Mr. Charles Udo who disclosed in a statement in Uyo yesterday said the restriction of movement put in place was still in operation but partial movement would be allowed only on Good Friday and Easter Sunday for Christians to hold church services.
He said the lockdown recommences at 1pm on both days but remains in full operations on all subsequent days until further notice.
Udoh advised all churches and religious gatherings to provide hand sanitisers at entrance to churches and non-contact infra-red thermometers to take temperatures of worshippers.
He added that the congregation should not exceed 20 worshippers including the pastors/priest and choir per church irrespective of the size of the church’s congregation while sitting arrangement must comply with the social distancing rule.
The commissioner said it became necessary that the lockdown was enforced following latest review of the current global pandemic situation and the need to continue to protect the citizens and residents.
“Following the latest review of the current global COVID-19 situation and taking into account the need for continued protection of all citizens and residents in the state against the threat of the raging pandemic, it has become necessary to reiterate that the Quarantine and Restriction of Movement Regulations 2020 is still in operations.
“However, churches and religious gatherings are allowed on Friday, April 10 and Sunday April 12, 2020….
“All religious gatherings must disperse early enough to ensure that members of the congregation return home on or before 1pm. All such congregations must not have more than 20 persons, including the pastors/priest and choir per church irrespective of the size of the church.
“The Quarantine and Restriction of Movement Regulations 2020 earlier signed into operations and announced by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, recommences at 1pm on both days but remains in full operations on all subsequent days until further notice
“Therefore, citizens and residents are enjoined to adhere strictly to these guidelines as law enforcement agencies are mandated to ensure full compliance.
“The Akwa Ibom State Government shall continue do all within its powers and the ambit of existing laws and regulations to protect lives, properties and economic endeavors within its territory.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is devoid political, ethnic, religious and indeed all other related nuances. It calls for unity and oneness of purpose to minimize the surge in our state”
