BY JULIET EBIRIM AND ANOZIE EGOLE
The recent law banning public smoking by the Lagos State Government has generated various reactions from members of the public. While some say it is a welcome development, others argue that it is an infringement on their rights. As usual, Saturday Vanguard went to town to sample the reactions of some Nigerian entertainers on the issue.

People should cut down on their excesses
— Jesse King Buga, Musician

I think it’s a good thing that the state government has done, because smoking in public places poses serious damages to non-smokers too. I think people should control themselves and cut down on their excesses as it could be very dangerous to their health.

It’s for our own good

— Mary Lazarus, Actress

I believe there are better things to think of than that. I also believe that it is for the safety and good of Nigerians. For modesty sake, I think it’s okay because smoking in public places affect non-smokers more, and it is even very dangerous to them. We don’t have freedom in Nigeria any longer, but I think it’s okay for our own good.

Kudos to the State Government
— Ayo Adesanya, Actress

It’s a good thing because even in developed countries, there are places you don’t smoke. I personally don’t like smoking  because of its health implications. So I think it’s a good one, Kudos to the state government.

It’s a good thing for the kids
— Fathia Balogun, Actress

I think it’s a good thing because smoking in public places has a huge effect on our kids. If a kid sees an adult smoking on the road, that kid will think it’s a good thing. For the kids, I think it’s a good decision.

Other states should borrow a leaf
— Mike Okri, Musician

I think it’s a good decision in the right direction because we know the hazards of cigarette smoking, it’s even worse for second-hand smokers. It’s not an ideal thing smoking in public, we have enough air pollution already. So, I hope they maintain that standard and other states should borrow a leaf from this. People should smoke in their private homes.

It all depends on what the govt means
—Yvonne Jegede, Actress

Well, it depends on what they mean by public places…. If it’s in  enclosed places like a night club, a pub, then its understandable, it’s not harmful to the next person.? As long as it’s not enclosed or in a four wall…. Open space na open space . In the UK, people come outside the club to stand in the cold to smoke because inside the club is an enclosed place.

It’s a perfect decision
— Rhymzo, Musician

It’s a perfect decision. Since smoking is dangerous to our health, I think it’s a very welcome development.