The Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS) on Sunday forced some churches in the state to comply with the directive of the government.
The government had restricted public gatherings of more than 20 persons.
The commander of the RRS, Olatunji Disu, said his team forced the management of Victorious Army International Church to comply with the ban.
“Based on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, the team got to the Acme Road branch of the church at past 9:00 a.m. only to be locked out by the church.
“Officials of the church were seen scampering around to inform other members of the presence of the police.
“When the entrance gate was opened, some belligerent church members who saw one of the enforcement officers recording the church activities attacked them, seized two mobile phones, a Samsung S8+ and Samsung J4.
“The members equally attacked TVC reporter, Ivy Kanu, and almost seized her phone. TVC cameraman was equally attacked as they tried unsuccessfully to prevent him from recording in and out of the church premises”, RRS said.
DCP Disu in de-escalating the crisis prevailed on the management of the church to discontinue the service and ensure attendance comply with the state government’s directive.
According to him, the team commenced compliance monitoring as early as 7:00 a.m. They visited religious organizations in Alausa, Agidingbi, ACME Road, Akilo, Ogba, Aguda, Yahaya Abatan, Omole, Ojodu, Ogudu, Oregun, Toyin, Ikeja GRA, Allen and Opebi. Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Olowopopo, Jobi Fele Way, Alapere, Oba Akran, and Obafemi Awolowo Way.
He said some churches visited had their services online while some had banners tied to their entrance informing worshippers to go back home.
