Niger Republic: Govt Issues Warning As Churches Reopen, Curfew Lifted

The government of Niger Republic has announced the lifting of night-time curfew on the capital Niamey and reopening of places of worship.

Following the outbreak of Coronavirus in the country, as part of the measures to curtail the spread of the virus, churches and religious gatherings were closed.

The government, however, on Thursday announced its decision to reopen churches after consultation with the COVID-19 expert committee.

“The government, after receiving proposals from religious leaders and after consultation with the Covid-19 experts’ committee, and in the light of the favourable trend of Covid-19 disease development, has decided to reopen places of worship as of Wednesday.”

Religious leaders in the country were called on by the government to disinfect places of worship before prayers, observe strict wearing of a mask and maintaining physical distancing of at least a metre.

The government added that the curfew from 9 pm to 5 am imposed in Niamey has been lifted.

However, they warned citizens that the curfew could be imposed again if the situation becomes worse.

“In the event of any deterioration of the COVID-19 pandemic in connection with the reopening of places of worship, the government reserves the right to reconsider this decision.”

Niger since the outbreak of coronavirus has recorded 854 cases with 47 deaths.