The Cross River State Governor, Ben Ayade, Saturday banned religious gatherings of more than five persons in the state following the spread of coronavirus in the country.
The Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Rev. Fr. Bob Etta, disclosed this in Calabar, the state capital.
The statement said the directive followed the resolution of the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) that religious leaders should show commitment to the safety and well being of their followers.
“The church is not the physical building but the people. Though, our doors will be closed our hearts are with God. Families are encouraged to hold their devotions at home.
“As a people of Faith, let us storm the heavens with our prayers and may God Hear us, Amen. A task force will be going round the state to monitor compliance as any church caught in worship will be sealed.”