Business and commercial activities have been shut down following the sit-at-home order declared by the leadership of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Benue state chapter for Christians in the state.

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The state Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev Akpen Leva, who expressed appreciation for the full compliance by Christians in the state in solidarity with the Catholic church and to mourn the two priests, 17 parishioners and several others killed by herdsmen militia.

The declaration has truncated activities as most places visited in Makurdi metropolis-shops, schools, traders, motor parks and offices were closed to observe the sit-at-home order.

While the state chairman emphasized that it the sit-at-home is voluntary, he urged Christians to fast and pray in the next 7 days for the state and for the release of those held in captivity especially Leah Sharibu, Chibok and Dapchi girls.

The prayer and fasting are expected to round off with a prayer on Sunday in government house chapel.

Meanwhile, Governor Samuel Ortom, corrected the notion he had declared Monday (today) public holiday.

This was contained in a statement issued by the chief press secretary, Terve Akase.

Reports by Gabriel Ordia