If anyone has stepped out recently, he must have noticed that Nigeria as almost fully resumed its normal life. From the aggressive drivers on the now busy roads to the spontaneous conversations at informal stands and the rowdy marketplaces, life has practically returned to normal in the country. In fact, if you take a stroll down the streets, you will likely find people holding hands, cheering happily, or even exchanging words aggressively! Except for the multi-coloured uniforms of school children that are still missing, nothing else might remind you of the ongoing pandemic.
Even if you are keen on the news, the political drama in Edo State and the detention of citizens who protested insecurity might welcome you first. Oh, I almost missed out a point! The different shades of colourful facemasks could drive a thought. But when you consider that the masks are mostly handheld, or drawn below the chin, and above the nose, it appears that the Nigerian new uniform merely prevents unwanted delays by law enforcement officers.
Across board, it appears that Nigerians are beginning to forget or underestimate Coronavirus. Even though the National Bureau of Statistics noted that there is considerable awareness on the virus, it seems that many feel invincible. In fact, many Nigerians reportedly believe that the virus is for the rich. Some have also argued that they have not COVID-19 presence in their states.
While Nigerians have continued with a reckless dance, the monster virus is budding in strength. The number of infections and death is rising. Presently, Nigeria has recorded 17,735 cases out of which over 63 percent are still active. There have also been 469 deaths. Recall that there were only 493 cases and 17 deaths as of April 17th. By 17th June, the number had jumped to 5959 cases and 182 deaths. Impliedly, cases and deaths increased by 1,108 percent and 970 percent between April 17 and May 17, respectively. Between May 17 and June 17, cases and deaths increased by 197 percent and 153 percent, respectively.
Yet, it seems that Nigeria has hurriedly forgotten the reality of the virus. Forgotten with this reality are other important issues. Just to ask, what happened to the mystery deaths in Kano? Who is raising question on the strange illness in Yobe? What about the statistics? Who is ensuring that the count is adequately reported across the states? Who is asking about the application deployed in Kogi State? Or the zero cases in Kogi and Cross-Rivers?
Although it is easier to be dismissive of the reality of the pandemic, it is important that measures are adhered to. This is to prevent a public health crisis of higher magnitude. While it is important to reopen the economy, the government must beef up measures to ensure compliance with stipulated guidelines. Alongside this is the need for more intense enlightenment on the pandemic. This can help prevent undue social gathering such as recorded at Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja, last weekend. Politically Exposed Persons should also be forced to adhere to the guidelines.