Lagos State government may soon lift ban on musical concerts and shows suspended in March in a bid to curb the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic in the state.
The General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Dolapo Fasawe gave this hint while observing a music concert organised at Bay Lounge, Admiralty way, Lekki, Eti-Osa Local Government.
Fasawe stated that the event, which was organised by the Palazio lifestyles and entertainment group, is been considered by government as a possible pilot scheme for
the new model of music concert in the state.
“This is a test run for the new format and if, after reviewing the entire exercise, it is successful, it is a win-win for everyone in the state.
“The drive-in concert event is globally accepted as a new model for hosting safe entertainment events. Lagos, being a prime destination of entertainment and leisure events in Africa, should not be left behind in this new trend that ensures that fans connect with their favourite musicians or idols without breaking COVID-19 safety and environmental regulations.
“Society benefits from entertainment; it adds structure to our social lives. Our goal is to ensure that the entertainment world can operate in a safe and healthy environment to create lasting positive memories, as we adjust to the post COVID-19 lifestyle”, Fasawe added.
The General Manager noted that though the event was successful, there is still room for improvement as the agency intends to do a thorough evaluation of the event and, subsequently come up with a more robust plan for the future while extending the scheme to other relevant sectors.
“Our goal is to support the entertainment sector, in tandem with outlined social distancing and environmental protocols, which will attract heavy sanction, if violated or defaulted flagrantly, to serve as a deterrent to others”, she asserted.
On the guidelines set for the organisers, the LASEPA boss noted that they were made to ensure that attendees are compelled to stay in their vehicles for the duration of the concert and not more than three persons in each.
“The use of face mask and check of temperature at the entrance was made compulsory and total compliance with social distancing at restrooms and provision of hand sanitizers.
“The stage must have not more than two persons on the stage and the approved time frame for the concert must be adhered to strictly”, Fasewe added.
While stating that a monitoring team from the agency would be deployed to the venue to ensure compliance, the LASEPA boss emphasized that noise from the speakers must not exceed the approved limit for the environment.
