By Hassan Zaggi
The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), has kicked against the relaxation of measures put in place to reduce the spread of Covid-19 in Kogi, Katsina, Ondo and Ebonyi states.
It would be recalled that some state governors have since ordered the relaxation of the lockdown orders and authorised mass observance of Jumat prayers and Easter Sunday services.
In a statement signed by the NMA President and Secretary General, Dr. Francis Faduyile and Dr. Olumuyiwa Odusote, respectively, the group called on the state governments concerned to rescind their decision in the interest of safety of lives.
It also appealed to the Nigerian Police force and other security agencies to ensure that such gatherings do not take place.
“The attention of the NMA 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 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.
“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.”
