The Ebonyi State Government, on Wednesday night, partially lifted the ban it placed on religious activities in the state.
It also related its ban on burials and gave those planning to bury their loved ones in the state, between April 9 and 20, 2020, to do so.
The Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Barr. Uchenna Orji and the Senior Special Adviser to Governor David Umahi on Religious and Welfare Matters, Rev. Fr. Abraham Nwali, disclosed this during a joint briefing at the Executive Council Chamber of Government House, Abakaliki, after the Council’s meeting, on Wednesday night.
According to the State Government, worshippers were expected to attend their normal Church service only on Sunday for Christians and Friday for Muslims with effect from April 12, 2020.
“The service is also expected to start from 8 a.m. and end by 12 noon. Every worshipper is expected to wear a face mask and observe social distancing,” it said.
“With effect from Sunday 12th April 2020, all religious worshippers shall be allowed to have their normal service every Sunday for Christians and Friday for Muslims, from 8 am to 12 noon only, provided that:
“Every worshipper must wear a face mask, including handkerchief or head tie. The service centre must be provided with hand sanitisers and running water for washing of hands. There shall be no religious gatherings other than on Sundays.”
The State Government Pastors or officiating Ministers who violated the precautionary measures and regulations would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with Ebonyi State Coronavirus and Other Dangerous (Infectious) Diseases and Related Matters Law No 06, 2020.
According to it, before any burial takes place, it should be notified through the ministry of Information.
It, however, noted that only the family members of the deceased, who should not exceed 20 persons, shall attend.
“Burial of loved ones shall be allowed to hold between 9th April, and 20th April 2020 provided that.
“Organisers must ensure the provision of hand sanitizer, face masks, and running water for washing of hands and other precautionary measures.”
The State Government further disclosed that it had approved the sum of N1 billion as palliatives to cushion the effect of the hardship occasioned by the of Coronavirus pandemic, for the poorest of the poor in the state
It pointed out that the Governor approved the release of the amount for the purchase of 400,000 5kg bags of rice and other foodstuff and the production of 400,000 face masks as a take-off palliatives for vulnerable groups.
