Defying FG’s Lockdown Directive, Kano Governor Approves Congregational Eid Prayers

Abdullahi Ganduje, governor of Kano, has approved congregational Eid prayers in Kano state.

Salihu Tanko Yakasai, the governor’s special adviser on media, said the government took the decision after a meeting between Ganduje and religious leaders in the state, on Monday.

He said the decision is based on the recommendation of 30 Islamic scholars in the state.

This development is coming less than 24 hours after President Muhammadu Buhari extended the lockdown in the state by two weeks.

“Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has accepted and approved recommendations by a selection of 30 Islamic scholars in Kano for the Government to allow Friday Prayers to hold as well as Eid Prayers,” the statement read.

“The Governor gave this directive after a lengthy consultation with the Islamic Scholars and other government officials at Africa House, in the Government House.’

“This means that the relaxation of the lockdown on the days of Monday and Thursday will continue, but Friday prayers will also be allowed as well as Eid Prayers, but traditional Eid celebrations in the State will not be allowed.

“The Imams have also been directed to ensure that everyone wears a face mask, as well as the use of sanitizers and washing of hands. They should also observe spacing as well as making brief sermon and observing social distancing.’’

“The State Government has also inaugurated a committee that will oversee the distribution of hand sanitizers, Sanitation equipment as well as face masks among others to Imams of Friday Mosques in the State.”

As of Monday evening, the state recorded 842 cases of COVID-19, making it the second state with the highest number of confirmed cases in the country.

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