Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Governor, who has just recovered from the Covid-19 infection, has urged residents of the state to avoid gatherings associated with Christmas celebrations.
In a message to mark Christmas Day, the governor said the restraint was necessary to curb the spread of the coronavirus amid the second wave of the pandemic.
“I wish all Lagosians a very happy and joyful Christmas on behalf of my family and the government of Lagos State.
“It is a fact that this year’s celebration is an unusual one, where we are expected to cut back on the usual and age-long tradition of family get-togethers and visits to friends and loved ones because of the pandemic that has spiked in recent days.
“The lesson of Christmas in itself is one of love and sacrifice by our Lord, Jesus Christ. We are to demonstrate this love for one another by ensuring we observe all the COVID19 safety protocols so we do not spread the virus.
“This yuletide season will demand that we give up all acts that can increase community spread of the virus – by not hosting and attending events that will breach safety protocols.
“By the grace of God, we will have more Christmas celebrations in good health and more prosperity in the years to come.”
The Federal and State governments in Nigeria have stepped up warnings to the citizens against acts that could escalate the second wave of the virus.
Nigeria in recent weeks has recorded rising cases of the virus infections, with daily numbers now exceeding the 1,000 mark.
Nigeria has recorded a total of 81,963 infection cases, according to figures on the website of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control. Out of this, Lagos accounts for 27, 807 cases as at Sunday, December 25.
Out of a total of 1242 cases of death recorded in Nigeria, Lagos accounts for 238, NCDC says.
