The Kaduna State Government has arrested two clerics for conducting congregational prayers despite the quarantine imposed on the state as a preventive measure against Covid-19.
The state government said Malam Aminu Umar Usman and Malam Umar Shangel were arrested in Malali and Ungwan Kanawa communities of Kaduna North Local Government Area for holding congregational prayers.
Their conduct violated government orders as well as advice given by leaders of faith. They will be prosecuted accordingly, the Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs Samuel Arwan said on Saturday.
The state government however thanked religious and community leaders who have joined in appealing to the public to abide by public health warnings. “We thank the media for amplifying the message of prevention and the security agencies that are enforcing the extraordinary measures,” Aruwan said.
“Government wishes to reiterate that it expects compliance with the quarantine orders and will continue to enforce them. Anyone who decides to jeopardize their prestige and social standing by wanton violation of orders made to protect public welfare and good health can expect a firm response.
“It should be clear that the inconvenience associated with the preventive measures, while regretted, are nothing compared to the suffering and deaths that coronavirus will cause if it is allowed to get here and spread.
“The security agencies will enforce government orders and uphold the 24 hour curfew, until further notice. Those who seek to defy the directives stand the risk of arrest and prosecution,” he added.
