The president of Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Otunba Bolaji Amusan, has called on his colleague to support the government in the war against the spread of the coronavirus virus.
According to the release signed by the office of the association’s president, Amusan stated that it is important for members to abide by governments’ pronouncements on the lockdown extension.
“My dear creative colleagues, I am very pleased for your cooperation on the suspension of film shoot or related works for the last two weeks. I see this as a display of patriotism not only to our association, but also to our dear country Nigeria.
“In consideration of the national broadcast by President Mohammed Buhari on April 12, 2020 when the Nigerian president spoke on the extension of the lockdown order in Abuja, Lagos and Ogun by another two weeks, and observing the lockdown or partial lock down of most of our states of practice by their governors, it becomes obligatory for us to abide by the pronouncement of the lock down extension by another two weeks,” he said.
Amusan mentioned that that considering the effective lockdown of most south western states, the members need to stay indoor to avoid harassment by security agents or contracting the disease.
“Majorly, our film locations are situated in Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti. These states are locked down except Oyo where movement is partial, and there are stern looking security agents moving round to ensure a strict compliance to the lock down order.
“We have consulted with Association of Movie Content Owners & Distributors (AMCOD) in this regard, and we have unanimously agreed that we sustain the suspension of all film shoots and related works till the lock down in our major state of practice are lifted.
“I strongly advise we endure this lockdown order to avoid contracting this virus ravaging the entire world.
As at today, the confirmed cases in Nigeria has risen to 373 and 10 deaths and according to World Health Organization, Coronavirus is a family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and the middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).
“Remember that our catchphrase is “Creativity For Nation Building”, and as nation builders, we must be law abiding at all times, and always remember that the virus, if contacted will be calamitous and ruinous to us and our loved ones,” he said.
While praying for God’s protection on the members, TAMPAN president reminded members of the safety measures to prevent contracting or spreading the virus.
“Finally, endeavour to always wash your hands with soap and water, sanitize your hands, avoid mass gatherings, let us make use of nose mask and hand glove regularly, and maintain social distancing during this lockdown and after,” he concluded.
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