CORONA VIRUS AND RESTRICTION ON SOCIAL GATHERINGS
I am compelled to issue this notice on the current threat posed by COVID-19 otherwise known as Corona Virus as it affects the safety of our members and by extension our families and the society at large. As at 11am, today, Sunday 22nd of March 2020, the Channels Tv News reported that there are now twenty-seven (27) cases in Nigeria. There is no doubt that Corona virus is a scourge threatening to diminish humanity.
The virus must be stopped from further spreading and no sacrifice can be too much to achieve this goal in the interest of our families and the society. The truth is that we must stay alive.
As leaders and members of our great Profession, we must appreciate the strategic gains of the principle of “be your brother’s keeper”. My desire for you to live supersedes my desire for votes. It is my belief that we must not underestimate the risk and the threat posed by this ravaging scourge. We must obey the directive of SOCIAL DISTANCING by the World Health Organisation and other directives on restriction on social gatherings by the Authorities in this country. According to Professor Bola Olayinka, Infection, Prevention and Control Specialist, “social distancing is the best control measure to prevent spread.”
It is common knowledge that schools are being closed down, fixed sport engagements are being postponed, international airlines are being restricted from flying into the country, gathering at worship centres are also being limited to specific numbers. Some State Judiciary like Lagos and Anambra States has issued Practice Directions giving priority to limited category of cases for hearing subject to maximum of twenty (20) persons per time in the Court-room. Some State Governments are directing their civil servants to work from home, in order to curb the pestilence that is threatening the society. It is a war that we must fight collectively with all sense of responsibility and firm commitment.
In the circumstances therefore, I am constrained to put a hold on further travels warranting further gathering of our members in compliance with of the safety measures being put in place by Governments and International Health Authorities. Recognising as I do that patriotism must always guide our aspirations. This decision will be reviewed within the next Fourteen (14) days with a prayerful hope that God will terminate the pestilence within that period.
In all this, please be my true friends. True friends are those who never leave our hearts even when they are out of sight. Let not my idea and my aspiration leave your heart during the pendency of this temporary restriction of our meetings. It is my prayer that God will make this earth a safe place for our dwelling. Together we must fight the scourge and speak to the earth to reject this virus. It is not part of God’s creation.
Let us all remain as patriots and custodians of our nation and guardians of our people.
Dated 23nd of March, 2020
Dele Adesina SAN FCI.Arb
Past General-Secretary, Nigerian Bar Association*
