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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 thereby bringing suffering upon us, but it is better to stay alive and in good health than to live in agony of sickness. Honestly, as an actor and a producer, I understand and share your feelings but law and COVID-19 is no respecter of nobody.
Filmmaking is collaboration, a craft that requires working side by side by both cast and crew. 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 20 and even the number is less, the crowd that the presence of the star actors will attract will certainly attract the attention of the law enforcement agencies as that of course will 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 kissing, touching and cuddling where the script dictates such? These and many other 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 honor 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.
Apparently, there are laws of the land that must be obeyed very strictly on COVID-19. It is also evident that our members may not meet all conditions as stipulated by the states and federal laws of the land during productions. But if as producer(s), you can meet the requirements of the law, you are free to go ahead with your production(s). But take note that the association will not by any standard indemnify any producer(s), members of cast and crew that violate the COVID-19 laws in the line of their productions.
Remember that there have been many deaths caused by coronavirus before Abba Kyari’s becomes talk of the town courtesy of his popularity. The stars are always made the scapegoat as they are “cynosure” anyhow and anytime.
Your well being to us is non-negotiable. We will all live through this to rise and shine again.
*I remain your partner in progress.*
