The Lagos State government has opted for a low-key celebration of Nigeria’s 60th Independence Anniversary due to the ravaging effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and has therefore cancelled the parade planned for the celebration.
Gbenga Omotoso, the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, announced this in a statement on Wednesday.
Omotoso said the state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, directed that the planned parade and other activities that involve the gathering of more than 50 people should be cancelled.
He said the governor congratulates Lagosians on the occasion of Nigeria’s 60th independence anniversary and strongly advises that they should celebrate quietly at home and pray for the country.
“They should also observe the COVID-19 protocols, including wearing of face masks to protect themselves and their loved ones.
“The governor urges Lagosians not to relax their vigilance against COVID-19 so as not to reverse the gains that the state has made in fighting the disease. They are to keep embracing social distancing and washing of hands with soap and water. Anybody who feels unwell should stay indoors and contact health authorities,” he said.
The commissioner said the police and other security agencies have been directed to ensure that nobody flouts the above directives in the interest of all Lagosians, “especially now that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is warning that a second wave of the deadly disease could occur”.
