The Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners’ Association of Nigeria, TAMPAN, has told members to avoid resuming movie activities while the lockdown order persists.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by TAMPAN chairman, Otunba Bolaji Amusan also known as Mr Latin.
According to the statement, members are advised to avoid resuming movie-making activities because such will violate the lockdown order which is partially in place.
The statement reads: “Distinguish members of Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners’ Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), it is my believe that you are Staying Safe. God in his infinite mercy will see us through this pandemic.
“In view of the ongoing Lock Down on film locations and all our other related crafts, I find it difficult but compelling to inform you that despite the partial relaxation of the Lock Down by the Federal Government, the peculiarity of our crafts will not permit us to relax our order to stop productions. I am undoubtedly aware that the Lock Down has crippled our economic activities but it is better to stay alive and in good health than to live in agony of sickness.
“Filmmaking is collaboration, this nature of our business will clearly violate the COVID-19 measures, which have been passed to law in Nigeria. On every set, the number strength of the cast and crew will be over twenty and even when the number is less, the crowd that the production will attract will certainly contravene the government order on mass gathering.
“Then, how do we observe social distancing on set? Are we going to mask our nose and mouth while acting? Is it possible to avoid touching and cuddling where the script dictates such? These reasons are fundamental to our decision and I will beg you to reason along with us.
“Despite that, since all the state borders are still closed, how can our star actors and other invited artistes travel interstate to feature in our films? The inabilities of those artistes to honour their contracts will generate lots of controversies that will in effect bring rancor to the association.
“Therefore, after considering those vital reasons with my Central Working Committee (CWC), and other stakeholders, our decision on The Lock Down Order on Productions stays till the Federal Government further relax the Lock Down. However, if as producer(s), you can meet the requirements of the law, you are free to go ahead with your production(s). But the association shall not in anyway be held responsible. We will all live through this to rise and shine again. I remain your partner in progress”.
