A wireless network is the only thing that unites the world during this pandemic!
It’s been roughly three weeks since the Federal Government of Nigeria declared the official lock down of some states in order to curtail the spread of COVID19 pandemic ravaging over 180 countries across the globe.
Since then, I’ve resorted to remote working and this has only been possible because of the internet. It has enabled me to deliver on my work, stay informed on the latest, accurate news and safety precaution to take against the virus. I have been able to occupy myself with streaming movies/series, watching funny videos as well as listening to podcasts.
With my family members, friends and loved ones scattered all across the globe, reaching out and praying with them online has become my top priority and as I count my blessings (In this case is the internet) I can’t help but wonder about African countries still experiencing internet shutdowns in this period.
Shutdowns have become common and frequent in recent years, most especially in Africa. In 2019 AccessNg reported shutdowns in over 33 African countries. These shutdowns are usually orchestrated to combat fake news and avert violence during tense periods like elections, anti-government protests, or armed conflicts — and perhaps pandemics. However, the negative effect it leaves is more alarming.
Speaking about the economically impacted nation, Femi Asu in an article he published in Punch newspaper stated that twelve (12) African countries lost over $2billion on Internet blackouts and social media shutdowns. In this period of time when the pandemic is drastically eating up the global economy, shutdowns are the last thing any country should attempt or encourage.
As the deadly virus spreads like wildfire, the world has literally been pushed to a standstill and no country can afford to shut down the internet. Doing so will infringe on public health and human rights as the internet provides access to vital information through WHO amongst other websites that could keep us and our loved ones safe against the deadly disease.
My joy still remains that the Chadian government lifted a 16-month blockade on access to social media before the pandemic as reaching my friend Hadjara could have proved abortive. The question now is, what is the fate of the citizens in countries like Ethiopia, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and India who are still experiencing shutdowns in this period of time?
Another point worthy of mention is internet affordability. Many parents have enrolled their wards in online classes in order for them to access educational resources while learning at home. Some Nigerian lecturers have resorted to the use of Instagram live to keep the education system alive. According to the United Nations, the pandemic has created an unparalleled education disruption which I believe can be bridged with access and affordability to the internet.
This is a call to network providers and the government to cut down the cost of data in this period to allow more Nigerians access to the internet.
As we advocate for #staysafestayhome, we should equally advocate for #NoToInternetShutdowns. As shutdowns will simply fuel the spread of the virus.
Together, we shall win the fight against this pandemic!!!
