COVID-19: Full reopening of worship centres subject to protocols— Ogun govt

The Ogun State Government on Friday clarified its position on the full re-opening of worship centres in the state, saying it is still subject to full observance of all COVID-19 protocols and guidelines.

The government stated that while churches and mosques could have their regular services and programmes – both weekly and mid-week activities, they must be carefully done in line with the deliberation, consideration and resolution, reached before with the leaders of Christian and Muslim faith.

A statement by Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Kunle Somorin, urged worship centres to ensure all congregants wear their face masks appropriately (and observe, No facemask, No entry) and adequate provision of running water.

Somorin stated further that worship centres should be adequately cleaned and decontaminated before and after services while household bleach solution /equivalent should be adequately prepared for disinfections.

The statement further reads: “There should be adequate provision and supervision of multiple Veronica Buckets for handwashing (fully automated hand washing machines are preferable);

There should be provision of alcohol-based sanitisers which must be used before and after service;

Worship centres should provide adequate toilet facilities with water.

“Muslims are advised to perform ablution at home and go to Mosque with their personal praying mats;

Qualified Medical Practitioners or trained personnel should check the temperature of worshippers with infrared thermometer before allowing them to enter worship centres.

“There should be adequate medical support for sick persons;

All services on Friday/Sunday and other week days must adhere strictly to COVID-19 guidelines.