Commentary: Mobilising Ndi Anambra To Stop The Spread Of Coronavirus

Written By: Ify Obinabo

Since its discovery in December, 2019 at a Seafood Market in Wuhan City, China where wildlife was traded illegally, Corona virus, otherwise known as COVID-19, has proven to be a very stubborn, recalcitrant and deadly virus, which has not only unified the world unto seeking solution to its devastation, but has terrified the entire human race and reduced them to standstill, forcing a government lockdown in almost all the cities and communities around the world.

As the numbers of infected are still on the rise, with a number of deaths having been reported, the World Health Organization says an animal appears most likely to be the primary source of the outbreak. In fact, according to Chinese scientists, Snakes, reptiles and other queer, weird and whimsical animals – including the Chinese krait and the cobra – are likely sources of the virus.

No doubt, COVID-19 is now more widespread than the 2002 Severe Acute Respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak, which also originated from China, in terms of affected people but not deaths.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), coronavirus is of the family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as SARS and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). These viruses were originally transmitted between animals and people. SARS, for instance, was believed to have been transmitted from civet cats to humans while MERS travelled from a type of camel to humans. The name coronavirus comes from the Latin word corona, meaning crown or halo.

The good news, however, is that there is no cause for alarm as governments have taken proactive measures to stem the tide of the spread of the virus, if only the people would abide by directives from government. This is not the time to be panic-stricken, especially when governments, like that of Anambra State, have demonstrated that prevention is better than cure. There is no doubt that Ndi Anambra are the most travelled in the country, and they frequently visit China and other nations hit by the pandemic for business. They are equally good Christians who always return home for every Christian festival. Therefore, as Easter celebration fast approaches, our brothers and sisters in the Diaspora, especially those in areas most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, are urged to remain where they are, at least for now. Our people at home should equally endeavour to postpone every tour outside the state within this period.

Anambra state government directed that No Keke or tricycle rider should carry more than two passengers at a time; drivers of shuttle buses must not carry more than 3 passengers at a time, while drivers of township and mini buses must not carry more than 5 passengers at a time.

The government has also taken other measures like suspending burials of up to 30 persons, parties and title taking ceremonies till the situation improves. Ndi Anambra need to cooperate fully with the government in the campaign against the COVID-19. Hence, Ndi Igwe, Presidents-General, youth organisations, political appointees, vigilante groups, religious leaders, Ozo title holders, age grades, masquerades and all other local law enforcement agents should assist in enforcing the government’s directives.

Let us wash our hands regularly with running water and soap for at least 20 seconds. We must air-dry our hands instead of drying them with towel or handkerchief because it may be contaminated. Let’s use hand sanitizers always, not shake hands or hug each other, ensure social distancing by keeping away from people by some six feet, and regularly clean door handles and rail surfaces with liquids containing up to 60% alcohol. 

The public is strongly advised to only visit the markets for essential commodities. All night clubs must remain closed. People should endeavor to sit at home. Operators of bars and restaurants should not admit more than 30 customers at a time and must adhere strictly to the basic standards of social distancing. They must provide hand-washing points and hand sanitizers for their customers. These measures are for our safety and must be sheepishly obeyed. The directives show a government that is proactive and cares for the people it governed. Coronavirus is real; be at alert, stay at home, protect yourself and family!