Human Rights Activist, Mr. Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN has urged the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu not to reopen worship & event centres and other public gatherings in view of the hike in COVID-19 infections.
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This is contained in a statement dated 27th day of June, 2020 signed by the learned silk and which was made available to TheNigeriaLawyer, with the title: “APPEAL TO GOV SANWOOLU NOT TO RE-OPEN WORSHIP CENTRES”.
“I’ve read on various online media platforms the appeal by religious leaders for government to reopen worship centres. Some are even advocating removal of age restrictions, urging government to allow children and elders to congregate together in this perilous time.
“I urge Your Excellency to uphold the earlier decision of the government not to reopen worship centers, events centres and other public gatherings for now, especially with the rise in cases of COVID 19 pandemic.”
It would be recalled that the Lagos State Government had earlier on announced the suspension of its decision to allow mosques reopen on 19th June, 2020 and churches on 21st June, 2020.
However, the learned silk noted that in a bid to contain the deadly pandemic, there is no measure taken like the closure of public gatherings, which would be deemed to be too much. Hence, stating that worship best resides in the innermost recesses of the heart.
“No measure taken to preserve life can be too much. The worship of God is best done through the heart, in spirit and in truth, and not just in buildings and assemblies.” He said.
In addition, it was noted that reopening places of worship poses a danger of mass infections and a further problem of disinfection of the public places after service.
“There is absolutely no reason to expose worshippers to the danger of mass infection, given the technicality of disinfection and decontamination, after every service.” He said.
“Whereas we all pray to God and trust Him to deliver us from this plaque, there is no gain in setting up ourselves against the danger of mass infection, just because we love to see our faces gathered together in one building.” He added.
Besides, he implored the government to uphold the current ban on religious activities and urged an increase in the testing capacities of Lagos State.
“I humbly urge Your Excellency to maintain the current restrictions while working to increase the testing capacity of government.” He said.
“I join other Nigerians to extend my good wishes to you on your birthday and to commend you and your team, for the good work of managing the pandemic so far.” He concluded.
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