Of all the updates that have been given so far
by the Lagos State authorities on the government’s efforts to contain the
spread of coronavirus, and ensure proper care for the reported index case, and
other possible cases (there is a second case now), the most intriguing update
for me is the disclosure that the Italian index case who has since been
quarantined at the bio-security facility in Lagos, is recovering – indeed so
well that he now eats a local delicacy, called “Amala”. This disclosure was
attributed to the Manager of the Bio-security Centre in Lagos, Dr. Bankole
Akinwale. Let no one be under any mistaken impression that the doctor was
trying to suggest that the eating of amala,
is any form of cure for corona virus; he being a Yoruba had to find the most
graphic way to convey the patient’s health status as at the time he made that
disclosure six days ago.
Amala is a special delicacy that is very popular among the Yoruba people of
Nigeria. It is in two forms, white and dark brown colours: the former is made
from cassava, and is far more popular among the Egba people of Ogun State. They
call it Lafun. The latter which is the standard paste is made from yam. Both
are best consumed with a variety of soups particularly okro, ewedu, ogbono, or well-made egusi soup or vegetables.
