TheCable

Henry Ndukuba, primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has asked the federal government to lift the ban on religious gathering.

As part of measures to lift the ban on coronavirus, the federal government had ordered suspension of religious gatherings.

While speaking with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, Ndukuba urged the government to reopen places of worship, adding that this would help in strengthening the fight against COVID-19 spiritually.

He said the act of worship would encourage and strengthen people to better cope with the impact of the pandemic.

“I urge the federal government to systematically relax the lockdown and possibly allow churches and mosques to reopen,” he said.

“Allowing us to come back to worship will strengthen the people and as well encourage the spiritual dimension in this warfare and help the country return to a normal life.”

The primate also added that continuous lockdown is not sustainable as it would negatively impact the nation’s economy.

“The effect of the pandemic will be much to bear and could amount to more job loss for Nigerians if not handled with wisdom.

“It is not sustainable to continue to lock up places, because the pandemic may not be completely eradicated anytime soon.

“We can not continue like these, to stop people from going to look for the source of their livelihoods, it is not sustainable.

“I am, therefore, pleading with the government that while we sustain the guidelines they have given, we should also ensure that we allow the people carry on with their normal life.”

Ndukuba encouraged the public to practice good hygiene and adhere to the guidelines put in place to prevent the spread of the virus.

He also gave assurance that the church would continue to provide palliatives for the indigent members and other people in need.