CAN: We support govt’s plan to shut down churches flouting COVID-19 protocol in Oyo

The Oyo state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) says it is in support of the government’s decision to shut down churches who disobey COVID-19 protocol.

In December, the Oyo government had threatened to close down churches that violate safety rules.

Commenting on the development on Thursday, Joshua Akinyemiju, the state CAN chairman, told NAN that church leaders must continue to advise their congregation to obey the government’s directives.

“The stand of government is that any church that defaults will be closed down, and that’s where we are,” he said.

“The guidelines are clear, simple and we expect that by now everyone should be used to wearing face masks, washing hands, maintaining social distancing among other measures.

“Christians should ensure they remain alive at all costs, our God is a God of the living and He gave us life free of charge; so if out of disobedience the life is lost, there will be consequence.

“Church leaders should continue to admonish their members on the need to appreciate God’s love for giving us life by being obedient.”

The chairman also urged the government to conduct more COVID-19 test.

“The fear of the second wave of COVID-19 is the beginning of wisdom, the rate of infection across the country is very alarming,” he said.

“The situation is almost beyond what isolation centres can handle, everyone needs to do everything necessary to stay away from getting infected.”

Akinyemiju said the Oyo chapter of CAN monitors its churches to ensure adherence to the stated guidelines.

“Highest standard of personal discipline is expected of any child of God and that’s what it takes to obey the COVID-19 protocol,” he said.

“Oyo CAN has a Compliance Monitoring Committee to ensure that churches adhere to stipulated guidelines for safety.

“We should always remember that face mask is better than ventilator. We shouldn’t disappoint our Creator by engaging in things that will cut our lives short. May God Almighty wipe out this noisome pestilence for us and heal our land in Jesus name.”

Editor’s note: This picture was used for illustrative purposes