The Lagos State Government has refuted reports that it plans to impose fines ranging from N20,000 to N500,000 on any religious organisation or individual that violates existing 12:00am to 4:00am curfew in the state.
The existing curfew affected planned annual cross-over services organised by many Christian denominations.
The cross-over service was banned by the governments of Lagos, Ondo, Ogun, Abuja and few others as part of measures to contain the second wave of COVID-19 in the country.
However, reports circulated earlier today that the Lagos state government imposed some fines to further deter would-be violators.
The reports quoted Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, as disclosing this in a statement.
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However, Omotoso has denied issuing such a statement.
He said, “The attention of the Lagos State Government has been drawn to an online news item quoting the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, as saying fines ranging between N20,000 and N500,000 will be imposed on violators of the Federal Government curfew on December 31, 2020. This is inaccurate and misleading.
“The government is advising residents to comply with COVID-19 protocols because the cases are rising. The role of religious organisations in fighting the pandemic is well noted.
“The Christian Association of Nigeria has issued a statement on how Churches should conduct their watchnight services.
“The Sanwo-Olu administration has maintained a harmonious relationship with religious organisations and has confidence in the ability of its leaders to ensure compliance with COVID-19 protocols amid the clamour for crossover services.
“Compliments of the Season.”