BREAKING: Bauchi lifts ban on religious gathering

Bauchi state government has lifted the ban on religious gathering in the state, which was initially imposed in April to contain the spread of coronavirus in the state.

Reports have it that the development would enable Muslims in the state celebrate the Eld-di- Fitri celebrations and also attend Friday Jumu’at prayers on Friday.

Governor Bala Mohammed made the announcement on Wednesday at a stakeholder meeting held with traditional rulers, religious leaders and security agencies held at the Banquet Hall, Command Guest House in Bauchi, the state capital.

Mohammed said the state relaxed the partial lockdown putting into consideration recent declaration by the World Health Organization (WHO) that the disease may not go soon and the fact that other states in the Northeast have lifted their ban.

He, however, said that the lifting of the ban for religious gathering was for two weeks with certain conditions that religious leaders and their followers must meet.

He listed the conditions to include compulsory use of face masks by members, provision of hand sanitiser and running water as well as observing physical distancing at the worship centres.

He said the government would review the level of compliance with the conditions after the expiration of the two weeks.