Coronavirus: Governor Obiano relaxes lockdown, asks churches in Anambra state to reopen

Governor Willie Obiano has relaxed the lockdown order he imposed in Anambra State, just after the South-East state recorded its first Coronavirus case. 

In a state-wide address on Saturday April 25, the Anambra State Governor directed churches in the state to reopen. He further stated that all worshippers must wear face masks and observe all safety and preventive measures as prescribed by health experts.

The ban on intra-state movement has been lifted, but the state borders will remain closed. Food and drug markets in the state have been directed to reopen with immediate effect. 

Governor Obiano said; 

“With regards to religious groups, leaders of the church should ensure that worshippers comply with the standards protocols of COVID-19 which includes wearing of face masks to church, use of hand sanitizers, social distancing and regular washing of hands.

“Church leaders should decide how best to conduct mass and service in strict adherence to the principles of social distancing to ensure that worshippers are not endangered. Please note that there should be no crusades and vigils for the time being.

“All food and drug markets in the state are to open with immediate effect.

“I will meet with market leaders on Monday, 27th April, for further discussion. When to re-open the schools as well as when civil servants will be allowed to go back to offices will be announced soon.”

Anambra has recorded only one Coronavirus case out of the 1182 cases in the country as at yesterday, April 25.