Lagos State reverses decision to re-open mosques and churches this weekend as Covid-19 cases rise

PLANS by the Lagos State government to open mosques and churches this weekend have been put on hold indefinitely following a recent surge in the number of infections over the last week.

So far, Nigeria has had 16,658 cases of coronavirus, of which there have been 424 casualties and although the figures have been relatively low, compared with other countries, the government took decisive action to combat the spread of the virus. Among the measures introduced have been the banning of church and mosque services, a suspension of all sporting activities and a ban on inter-state travel.

Lagos State has borne the brunt of infections in Nigeria, however, as it is responsible for almost half of all cases in the country. So far, there have a been a total of 7,319 cases in Lagos State with 82 deaths, making it the epicentre of the pandemic in the country.

On June 4, Lagos State's Governor Babajide Sanwoolu had announced that mosques would reopen from June 19 and churches would be allowed to resume services as from June 21. However, given the recent spike in cases, this decision has been reversed and faith houses will remain closed for the time being.