Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has issued a ban on churches and mosques blocking roads during worship times.

He also mandated all worship centers to provide building approvals issued by the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) or face penalties.

Since 2014, road blockages by worship centers have been common in Jos, a practice that began when terrorists targeted these locations with bombs. Despite the cessation of bomb attacks, the practice has continued, causing significant disruptions to motorists and other road users, especially on Sundays and Fridays.

In letters addressed to the state Chairmen of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), the government explained that this ban is part of implementing Executive Order 003, recently signed by Mutfwang. One of the letters, dated June 13, 2024, and signed by JMDB General Manager Hart Bankat, emphasized the need for worship centers to provide appropriate off-road parking spaces for their congregants.

“Following Executive Order 003 of the Governor of Plateau State Barrister Caleb Mutfwang signed on the 1st of March 2024 for the control of Building/Vehicular traffic, I convey the ban of blockage of access roads and advise that all worship centers should provide appropriate parking spaces off the main roads during worship for their worshippers,” the letter read.

“All worship centers should provide building approvals issued by the JMDB to avoid penalties. The Government solicits the support of spiritual leaders to advise their members to comply with the laws.”

Rev. Polycarp Lubo, the state Chairman of CAN, confirmed receipt of the letter and expressed no objection to the directive. “Yes, we have received the letter. We have no problem with the government directive,” he stated.