by Toluwanimi Onakoya
The first case of Coronavirus in the country was recorded in February. The patient, an Italian who predominantly worked in Lagos, had just returned from Milan when he was tested positive for the deadly disease. The government sprung into action, educating citizens on how to prevent coronavirus and soon after, setting in place a nationwide lockdown which is gradually been eased off as we continue to notice the steady rise of Coronavirus cases across various states of the country.
Nigerians were however, left shell shocked Thursday night following the daily report from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on the number of coronavirus cases in the nation. With the NCDC reporting the highest number of active cases thus far yesterday with 345 active cases in Lagos alone, the announcement spurred series of reactions from Nigerians.
Many were quick to say they weren’t surprised at the numbers, seeing as the lockdown is continuously being eased. The fact that “Danfo” buses were still in operation, packing several people together into their public vehicles also prepared them for the exponential increase in cases.
681 new cases and only Lagos be sharing more than half!! "345 in Lagos". Lagos center of excellence, I actually don't expect less since lockdown has been eased.
This is a Risk between you and your Immune system!#TakeResponsibility
Thelma || GTA 6— 10th King ? of Jan. ♑ (@Dami_La_Rey) June 12, 2020
Some urged the government to reinstate a complete lockdown so as to curb the rising numbers; stressing that human lives are more important than the economic standing of the country.
What I don't get is, even when cases weren't this much in Lagos, we were asked to stay home, maybe we should just kuku go on lock down again ooo.. Abi economy is important that human lives ni.
345 in Lagos is quite much oo.— S. A. H. (@Olaamiidee_) June 12, 2020
The laissez-faire attitude of some Nigerians towards the pandemic was commented on as many accused Lagosians of not caring about the existence of the virus and taking no precautions in protecting themselves.
Lol, we are acting surprised as if we didn't expect this figures. Our I don't care mentality will only make things worse. I just hope it doesn't get out of control. ? 345 in Lagos pic.twitter.com/dBzc58wB3M
— Presh? (@Presh82414834) June 12, 2020
Others expressed despair and helplessness at the current numbers and sought spiritual help to intervene on the matter.
345 in Lagos. God help us pic.twitter.com/VRlcFvFYUw
— Terpase ? (@GPhilcz) June 12, 2020
Unsurprisingly, there were some others who expressed nonchalance at the numbers, dismissing it. It would seem as though some people are already getting desensitized to the news.
345 in Lagos, like we care? pic.twitter.com/3WagQdSPvo
— iambahdmouth 1 (@IkengaPrince) June 12, 2020
345 in Lagos ? Ehn en??♂️
Can I see the next figures please?? pic.twitter.com/Xr8jRijXwx— ♉❤️? (@IsaacIsPsychic) June 12, 2020
345 in Lagos LMAO
If you know you don't care about coronavirus in Nigeria again hit the like button let's know ourselves pic.twitter.com/CtL81wgUpa— Madridista—AbdlWahab ★ ?? (@TheMrnass) June 12, 2020
A similar group of persons spouted theories; stating that the coronavirus numbers were not believable and that the NCDC had more to do in showing more data to convince Nigerians.
Everytime the NCDC thinks we're no longer listening to them, they increase their volume;
which one is 781 new cases, 345 in Lagos?At this rate y'all should be calling for a second lockdown, but your not. I smell a dead rat somewhere.
— Professional Beggar️? (@Sheddi_younG) June 12, 2020
345 in Lagos
At this point I don't believe anymore !
Follow me, I follow back immediately pic.twitter.com/83gS1pDldd— CHAMP? (@iampholu) June 12, 2020
A lot of persons who claim to have suffered from the Coronavirus disease themselves or know people who have, offered up a caution urged Nigerians to remain safe. Going as far as confirming that Coronavirus is indeed real.
345 in Lagos
This shit is real mehn
I finally know someone that passed away due to covid 19..If you have to go out stay safe… pic.twitter.com/Ecgud4kkC6
— Online Pastor (@online__pastor) June 11, 2020
345 in Lagos
This shit is real mehn
I finally know someone that passed away due to covid 19..If you have to go out stay safe… pic.twitter.com/Ecgud4kkC6
— Online Pastor (@online__pastor) June 11, 2020
Toluwanimi Onakoya is a spirited writer, creative and videographer. Her biggest drive is to connect with people and depict tales using various forms of media.
Toluwanimi is available on Instagram and Twitter @nimi_onaks
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