Ekiti closes schools, restricts the services of churches and mosques once a week – Punch Newspapers

Sodiq Oyeleke

The government of the state of Ekiti has introduced new restrictions to protect public health after a sharp rise in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Among the new measures are the closure of schools and the restriction of churches, mosques to one service on worship days on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Worship centers were also required to operate half of their seating capacity.

Governor Kayode Fayemi announced new guidelines aimed at combating the second wave of COVID-19 in a statement available to our correspondent on Wednesday.

The statement quoted the governor as saying the move had become necessary to ensure the situation did not spiral out of control during a state show Wednesday night.

The governor ordered that schools in the state remain closed until January 18, while vigils, parties and clubbing will be suspended until further notice.

Fayemi also ordered civil servants in grades 12 and below to stay at home until January 18, when they will be ordered to return to their desks.

The Governor said that only half of the full seat of the facility can be allowed to participate in any ceremony / program at any one time, and activities should not be longer than 20 hours.

Fayemi said, “In addition, protocols regarding wedding and funeral ceremonies remain in force. There should be no crowds in the church auditorium, and funeral services should only be at the grave.

“Supermarkets, event centers, hotel and bar owners must strictly ensure that measures of social exclusion are established and respected accordingly.

“Only half of the full number of seats in the facility may be allowed to participate in any ceremony / program at any one time, and activities should not exceed 20:00. Partying, clubbing and vigils are suspended indefinitely until further notice.

“To ensure that things do not get out of hand, we have given strict instructions to the working group and law enforcement agents to begin aggressive law enforcement activities in public places, including worship centers, events, markets, supermarkets, bars and hotels.

“The government will not hesitate to close any plant indefinitely and prosecute operators of any public places, violating protocols.”