As Christians all over the world prepare to celebrate the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ on Sunday April 12, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Hafiz Inuwa has said the police will continue to enforce the lockdown order of the State Government.
CP Inuwa made the assertion in a telephone chat with DAILY POST in Warri.
“We are not going to relax because up till now, we have not received any directive. We will work until a directive to relax the lockdown is given.
“We will not relent in our efforts to enforce that because this lockdown has nothing to do with religion or what have you. It’s for the good and safety of everybody.
“So, as I speak with you, we will continue to enforce the lockdown until the contrary directive is given.”
This is coming contrary to rumour that the Delta State Government will like other States relax the lockdown order for Christians to go and worship in their various churches on Sunday.
The Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Ehiedu Charles Aniagwu did not answer calls, neither did he responded to text message sent to him for comments on the matter.
Earlier, the Delta State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, said the Delta State Governor, Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa has graciously relaxed the lockdown order on churches for the Easter Sunday service.
In a statement signed by Apt. Sylvanus Okorote, Special Assistant on Religious Matters to the CAN Chairman, he said the churches must observe the following:
“All churches should observe a short service not exceeding 2hours and should close before 12noon as the stay at home order resumes at 1pm.
“Provide water and soap and ensure that worshippers wash hands before entering the church.
“Provide sanitizers for members to use.
“Maintain social distance of 2metres (6ft) between seats.
“No hugging, no shaking of hands. Offer prayers for deliverance from COVID 19.”
It is left to be seen if the police will arrest and prosecute worshippers who may defy the lockdown order for the celebration of the Easter Sunday service.
