COVID-19: Bauchi lifts ban on religious gatherings

The Bauchi government has lifted the ban on religious gatherings in the state.

In April, the government banned all religious gatherings and closed educational institutions to curb the spread of  COVID-19 in the state.

But at a meeting with religious leaders and traditional rulers Speaking on Wednesday, Bala Mohammed, governor of the state, said the religious centre can resume their activities from Thursday.

The governor said the state decided to lift the ban because of the “achievement” it has recorded in managing the disease.

“Judging from all I have seen, we want to look at it comprehensively to see how we can give a breathing space to our people,” Mohammed said.

“Allah has made it possible for this disease to nosedive and today, we have the least number from those in the hospitals and have been discharged.

“The state government has suspended the total lockdown (in Katagum, Zaki, and Giade areas of the state) and partial lockdown from Thursday, May 21st, 2020 in the state once it is agreed by all parties.

“Easing of the lockdown will be gradual with the lifting of the ban on Juma’at prayers and Church services on the condition that Imams and Clergies are mandated to ensure full compliance to regulation put in place to enable full re-opening of worship centers.”

Bauchi has recorded a total number of 224 confirmed cases of the disease so far.

Despite the increasing COVID-19 case in the country, other states that have resumed religious activities include Taraba, Nasarawa, Borno, Gombe and Adamawa.