Cross-over services: We are in dialogue with govt —Osun CAN

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Osun State, Bishop Amos Ogunrinde, on Monday, said the association had commenced dialogue with the government, following the cancellation of cross-over services as part of efforts to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the state.

Bishop Ogunrinde in a chat with our correspondent  said the last might not have been heard on the issue and urged Christians to be on the lookout for another directive.

Osun State Government in a statement on Sunday signed by the secretary to the government, Prince Wole Oyebamiji, had said there would be no countdown to New Year ceremonies and cross-over nights under whatever guise by religious bodies during the New Year eve.

He also said, “The ban on youth carnivals still subsists. Also, all social clubs, hotels, departmental stores, supermarkets, event centres and allied centres are to henceforth operate at half of their capacities and observe COVID-19 protocols.”

But Osun CAN chairman said the governor took the decision to stop cross-over nights in order to bring people under check.

“It is not the wish of the governor to stop cross-over night. The CAN leadership and the government are dialoguing on the matter.

“We believe the government will give another instruction regarding the cross-over night. We are dialoguing with them and I believe our governor is a listening governor,” Ogunrinde concluded.

When contacted for reaction, Chairman, Osun Muslim Community, Alhaji Mustafa Olawuyi, said the government’s decision to stop large gatherings was in the interest of the generality of the people.