ONDO: Akeredolu cancels ‘crossover night’ as Covid-19 spread

THE Ondo State Government has directed all churches in the state to cancel the services with which they usher their members into a New Year.

The services, which in popular parlance are called “Cross Over” services, often come with giving thanks to God for the year coming to a close and presenting to him a litany of requests for another one about to unfold in a couple of hours.

Individuals also seize the occasion of a “crossover” service to make resolutions on how they intend to approach a New Year. 

But following the outbreak of a second wave of Covid-19 pandemic, the Ondo State Government on Wednesday canceled Cross Over services by churches in the state.

Giving reason for its decision to cancel one of the most chersished events by Christian faithful, Chairman, the Ondo State Inter-ministerial Committee on coronavirus, Prof. Adesegun Fatusi said the state was working to ensure it records no substantial case during the yuletide season.

While speaking at a press briefing in Akure, Prof. Fatusi said no church service must exceed 10pm until further notice.

Prof. Fatusi said government and business offices would remain open but with strict compliance of  Covid-19 precautionary measures.

He added that markets would also continue operations but with heightened enforcement of Covid-19 precautionary measures.

Fatusi warned night clubs and relaxation spots not to operate beyond 10pm and advised anybody above 60 years of age or with existing ailments to remain indoors and disengage from joining any social gathering.

He said the state would begin strict enforcement of the law that guides against the spread of Covid-19 and other infectious diseases in the state from January 2021.