The Ibadan chapter of the Nigerian Bar Association, has warned Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State against the planned re-opening of schools in the state to curb the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The association called for caution in a press statement signed by its Chairman, Oluwole Akintayo, made available to journalists in Ibadan, on Wednesday.
Makinde had, on June 15, ordered that students in Primary 6, JSS3 and SS3 in the state should resume by June 29.
The NBA’s statement read that while the association understood that the rationale behind the resumption of the students was to enhance their performance in the coming examinations, the decision might have a dial consequence.
It read in parts, “It is our considered view, and judicial authorities have confirmed this position by recognising the presumption, that children are naturally playful. One may be demanding too much from them to observe necessary safety precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“Regrettably, some of our adult citizens still carry on their activities as if COVID-19 does not exist.
“In this context, we have not laid good examples for our children to emulate. Despite the efforts put in place by the government, particularly the protocols regarding social distancing and use of face mask, majority of our citizens do not adhere to these protocols.
“Even our transporters ignore safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. It is our considered view that opening our schools at this time may create a veritable avenue for community spread of the infectious disease.”
It warned that “In Western Cape Province, South Africa, 98 teachers, 1,800 students tested positive for COVID-19 almost two weeks after school resumption.
“Three weeks after Israel reopened the doors to all its schools, 347 pupils and teachers tested positive. In our humble opinion, only children who are alive and in soundhealth can sit and pass examinations.
“It is only through these healthy children the investment of government and parents and guardians will not be wasted.
“We call on the governor of Oyo State to reconsider the decision that some school pupils and students resume on the 29th day of June, until there is sufficient scientific evidence that positively indicates that there is safety and well-being for our pupils and students, their teachers and other workers, their parents and guardians and other family members, and the good people of Oyo State.”
