Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has revealed that lifting the lockdown in some parts of the country will only increase the rate of transmission of the deadly Coronavirus.
This is coming after some state Governors such as Ben Ayade of Cross Rivers state, Akeredolu of Ondo state relaxed the lockdown on citizens for them to observe Easter celebrations.
The Association has expressed serious concerns over Governor Ayade’s statement saying citizens are free to move around if they wear facemasks.
This was contained in a statement signed by NMA President, Dr. Francis Faduyile
He said: “The attention of the Nigerian Medical Association has been drawn to some isolated statements negating the established measure of preventing COVID-19 – social distancing; and orders by some state governors authorising the mass observance of Jumat prayers and Easter Sunday services.
“Of particular concern are: the declaration by the Cross River State Governor that social distancing is not needed while wearing a face mask; a moratorium on the lockdown to allow mass gathering in mosques and churches starting from Friday to Sunday in Rivers state; and the lifting of the ban on Friday prayers by Katsina and Kogi States government.
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“We are aware that similar orders have also been given in Ondo, Ebonyi and Imo states which have approved mass attendance of Easter services.
“While appreciating the prime place of religion in our national lives and especially the value Christians place on Easter, we place on record that there is now the evidence of community transmission of COVID-19.
“As such, relaxing any guideline that promotes mass gatherings in any part of our nation now can only heighten and not flatten the curve of transmission dynamics.
“We therefore pray all authorities concerned to rescind their decision in the interest of safety of lives and implore the Nigerian Police force and other security agencies ensure that such gatherings do not take place.”