The Aba Nigeria Temple has been closed for an indefinite period of time because of violence and crime in its vicinity.
Scott Trotter, spokesman for the Church, issued the following statement:
"The safety of our temple visitors and workers is always our first concern. Incidents of violence in recent months in the area where the temple is situated are not necessarily related to the temple but could put Church members at risk. As a precautionary measure, temple workers have been moved to other areas and the temple has been closed while the situation is being addressed."
In recent months, there has been gunfire in the area of the temple, as well as an increase in the number of reported kidnappings in southern Nigeria.
On Aug. 27, the First Presidency said that the decision regarding the temple's closure will be reevaluated as conditions in the area change.
The Aba Nigeria Temple was dedicated Aug. 7, 2005, by President Gordon B. Hinckley. There are more than 88,000 members in five missions and some 260 units of the Church in Nigeria.
