Coronavirus pandemic is a viral infection. Contagion takes place when fluid from an infected person’s mouth or nose gets into the mouth or nose of an uninfected person. The novel virus has dealt healthcare systems around the world huge blows, crippled global economy, led to loss of jobs and has altered the social order of the world. Of course Nigeria is not left out.
Nigeria is a country with vibrant, colourful cultures. Her rich artistic heritage, traditional and contemporary, greatly reflects on her people’s everyday life. But with the spread of Covid-19 in Nigeria, such places are a shadow of themselves. The fear of contagion has kept everyone out of these places.
The pandemic-triggered lockdown has affected social life in so many ways; it has disrupted movement, making it difficult to assemble.
Furthermore, social distancing, which is recommended by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the World Health Organisation, is to prevent the spread of the virus. It has also brought about idleness to most people especially the business men and women in the informal sector whose businesses are run daily.
Howbeit, the arrival of the pandemic may have some bright sides. Many believe it has provided opportunities for families to bond. For others, it has given them the opportunity to self-develop, discover themselves more, learn new things and have a new lease on life.
Furthermore, there are others who believe it did not affect them in any way in the sense that the internet has been their major way of socialising with friends and families.
The bottom line is that this virus with no hands or legs has effectively walked Nigerians away from their characteristic social spaces. But while the urge to reclaim those spaces come, let us collectively say no and continue to endure the new norm while waiting for the defeat of the virus.
Ijeoma Eboh, eboh.ijay@gmail.com
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