Kwara cancels Sallah prayers

The Kwara State Government has cancelled Eid-el Kabir prayers. Addressing journalists at the Deputy Governor’s Lodge in Ilorin, the deputy governor and chairman of the state technical committee on COVID- 19, Kayode Alabi, said the cancellation became necessary given the huge numbers that are expected to gather for eid prayers and the possibility of such gatherings leading to a spike in cases and potential deaths.

He said, “Government, in consultation with the Council of Ulamah, under His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, hereby cancels congregational eid prayers for 2020 across the state. This is a tough decision, but it was made in the interest of all of us.”

He noted that there would be Friday prayers as it has been restored, but in strict compliance with the rules of physical distancing and the use of facemasks. He also stated that malls such as ShopRite, Amusement Park, all shops and markets are to be shut on the Eid Day and the day after it. The Unilorin Zoological Garden should also be closed for those two days,” he said.

The deputy governor also said government had held consultation with the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria and had suspended vigils until further notice. “Church services should also not exceed 2 hours, with full compliance with the safety measures in place,” he said.