NAN-H-9
Christians
Kafanchan (Kaduna State), Dec. 25, 2016 (NAN Christians in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, are celebrating a low-key Christmas because of the 24-hour curfew imposed on the town.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the curfew was placed on the town on Dec. 19 following a peaceful demonstration that turned violent.
But the curfew was relaxed by twelve hours to allow for the Christmas festivity on Sunday and Monday, Dec. 25 and Dec. 26, respectively.
NAN checks in Kafanchan found that Christians, therefore, turned out and worshipped at various Churches, while security operatives were sighted at strategic places within the metropolis.
At one of the places of worship , Apostles Emmanuel Bako admonished Christians to be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.
“We must be examples of Jesus in words and conduct so that our society would be a better place.
Also, Pastor Sam Agbem of the Governors Assembly, Kafanchan, said although the security challenge witnessed in the area created tension among the residents, Christmas was still observed.
“As Christians, even in the face of adversity, the celebration of the birth of Christ is still worth it,” he said.
Mrs Jemimah Aliyu, a resident of Kasit, Kafanchan, told NAN that the curfew had dampened the spirit of the festival as most parents were afraid of taking their children to the parks.
“Although there is relative calm, it is only wise to play it safe as no one is sure of what may happen next,” she said.
Special prayers were, however, offered at the churches for the peace of the town, state and the Nation.
Meanwhile, business premises including eateries and relaxation spots in the town are witnessing poor patronage due to the curfew.
NAN reports that some of the business operators who took advantage of the relaxed curfew and opened to customers blamed the poor patronage on the insecurity situation in the area.
Mr Emeka Felix, who operates a wine bar, said only a handful of customers patronised his wares since morning.
“We thank God still but, business is not good this season,” he said.
Mrs Rhoda Kasham of Rhoda’s Place, said customers were buying her food in take-away packs instead of sitting to eat at the Restaurant, because of the security situation. (NAN)
MGK/AMY/AMY
============
Edited by Abdullahi Yusuf