In the face of the increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases in Nigeria, States and the Federal Government have been advised not to consider lifting the ban on the congregational religious activities in the country for now.
The advice, by ANAP Foundation’s COVID-19 Taskforce, is coming few days after some notable clergymen criticised the revised lockdown directives which prevent religious gathering.
In a statement on Sunday, ANAP Foundation noted that religious, social gatherings and other activities which have strong propensity for physical contact should not be encouraged at this time.
“We note the recent clamour by some religious leaders to allow physical congregation since limited economic activities have commenced. Worship can take place personally, at home or virtually and we firmly believe that it is not yet time to allow congregational religious activities. Religious and social gatherings, ceremonies and economic activities which have a strong propensity for physical contact should not be the priority at this time.”
The Foundation amongst other recommendations also harped on the need for modification of the 8 pm-6 am curfew to 11 pm-5 am so as to allow for some economic activities that will ensure the right balance between public health and economic sustainability.
“whilst the easing and modification of lockdown measures have met with varying degrees of success, we underscore the need to increase the intensity of a sound and effective communication strategy which ensures that the public is alive to the dangers of COVID-19 and its potential for exponential growth if we let our guard down.“
It warned that the “unchecked behaviour and violations of public health advice regarding minimising physical and social contact, observing personal hygiene e.g. failure to wash hands frequently and/or use sanitizers and/or wear cloth face coverings in public will lead to the rapid spread of COVID-19.”
The foundation recommended the intensification of behaviour change communication campaigns on physical distancing, hand washing and wearing cloth face coverings in public in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
