Despite the increasing positive cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria especially Lagos, the state government reportedly approved a company’s end of the year party.
Recall that Lagos state is the epicentre of the deadly virus in Nigeria and had 388 fresh infections out of the total 712 cases confirmed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
But the state government flouted her own directive when people gathered on Saturday for a cookout organised by Rocky’s Grills and Barbeque, a Lagos-based company, which specialises in outdoor catering services, an event the state reportedly approved.
Cookout refers to a party or gathering where a meal is cooked and eaten outdoors.
WITHIN NIGERIA learnt that the event happened at Abdul Quadri Street, Magodo and it featured friends and family members.
An official of the company disclosed that the annual event which is the second of its kind, was organised by the organisation to celebrate consumers during the outgoing year.
He added that the cookout is also aimed at commemorating when the company was founded.
This event took place days after the Lagos state government directed that all concerts, carnivals and street parties are hereby banned to curb the spread of the virus.
Recall that the Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu also warned churches against organising cross over service, an annual programme, in order to check the spread of COVID-19.
But on Saturday, residents clad in different attires, seated in groups, danced, chatted amid intermittent hugs and handshakes in violation of COVID-19 protocols.
Four officials at the entrance ensured that people were putting on face masks. They also gave out hand sanitisers while also using infrared thermometer to check the body temperature of those entering the venue.
However, that seemed to be mere formalities observed by people just to get into the event venue as some of the participants yanked off their face masks after gaining entry into the venue while others wore the protective gear below their chins.
The event had in attendance operatives of the Lagos state police command. But the presence of the policemen, who were from Isheri division, did little to ensure compliance with COVID-19 among the participants.
VIDEO: Despite ban on large gatherings, outdoor event 'approved by Lagos govt' holds in Magodo
Cc:@followlasg @jidesanwoolu #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/Z3WHnF3FQD
— TheCable (@thecableng) December 26, 2020
In a statement, the publicity/social unit of Magodo Residents’ Association (MRA), said the event had the backing of government.
“Dear residents, compliments of the season to you all once again. This is to inform everyone one that a Lagos state approved event will be holding today 26th December 2020 on MRA secretariat grounds on Abdul Quadri Street,” the statement.
