Opinion

By Muhammad Shamsuddeen

On the first ground, which alleges that Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf was not qualified to contest the election because his name was not submitted by the party 30 days before the primary election. The tribunal accepted the respondent’s contention in their preliminary objection to the effect that this ground is an internal affair of the party and mainly a pre-election matter in respect of which the tribunal has no jurisdiction.

The court then proceeded to hold that even if the evidence before the court proves the failure to submit the name as alleged by the petitioners, the court had no power to make pronouncement in that respect. Consequently, the ground was struck out for want of jurisdiction.

The second ground is that the election was invalid by reason of non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 in over 300 polling units. To prove this case, the petitioners called only 31 witnesses, 30 among whom are Polling Unit agents of only 30 of the affected Polling Units. The law, as held in a plethora of authorities, is that to prove noncompliance in several Polling Units, the petitioner is under a duty to call witnesses from each of the Polling Units who saw the noncompliance first-hand.

Despite the reiteration of the above provisions in Obi v INEC and Atiku v INEC, the Kano tribunal shut its eyes against the doctrine of judicial precedent and held that it would rely on the documents dumped on the court, investigate the same at its Chambers and made findings in respect thereto.

The court, on its own, analysed the documents and held that all the Polling Units in respect of which the petitioner complained must be cancelled, and the number of PVCs collected in the Polling Units is 231,843. The tribunal, instead of making a pronouncement of inconclusive, considering that the margin between the candidates is less than 231,843, just kept quiet on that.

It should be noted that the tribunal did not advert its mind to the foundational position of the law of ‘he who asserts must prove’ and went ahead to believe that whatever was presented before it by APC was true and need not be validated by credible witnesses. The greatest error is from the tribunal’s determination of ground 3 of the petition, which alleges that the 2nd respondent was not elected by valid lawful votes at the election.

The petitioner’s contention here was that there were several ballot papers that were not stamped, signed or dated, for which reason they alleged that the votes were invalid. As a preliminary point, it should be noted that the petitioners did not plead the number of ballots affected by the alleged non-compliance. The law is that parties are bound by their pleadings.

Section 63 of the Electoral Act provides that; “(1) Subject to subsection (2), a ballot paper which does not bear official mark prescribed by the Commission shall not be counted. (2) If the returning officer is satisfied that a ballot paper which does not bear the official mark was from a book of ballot papers which was furnished to the presiding officer of the polling unit in which the vote was cast for use at the election in question, he or she shall, notwithstanding the absence of the official mark, count that ballot paper.”

The petitioners called only one Dr Harbau, who alleged that he is an expert and that he analysed the ballot papers and discovered that they were unsigned, undated, unstamped or affected by a combination of two or more of these. However, the written statement on oath of this witness was filed long after the hearing had commenced, and not along with the petition as mandated by the Electoral Act and the case of Obi v Inec decided 2 weeks ago.

Instead of discountenancing the oath of the witness, the court believed him line, hook and sinker. There is no evidence from the Petitioner that any of the ballot papers were rejected by the respective presiding officers or the collation officers. There is, therefore, the presumption that they were believed by the officials as having emanated from INEC.

Similarly, in Boni v Muazu (2004) 16 NWLR PT. 900, the Court of Appeal held that to prove ballot votes stuffing, it is the duty of the petitioners not only to produce the ballot papers allegedly stuffed, they must also produce the particular ballot boxes in which the ballots were stuffed, and same must be demonstrated before the court by bringing out the ballot papers from the boxes and counting them before the court to establish the claim. This did not happen.

The court still went ahead to unilaterally cancel the votes, namely 165,763 belonging to the 2nd respondent. With this cancellation, the margin between the parties is 36,766, with Gawuna leading. However, since the court earlier held that the number of collected PVCs in the cancelled polling units is 231,843, the only conclusion is to declare the election inconclusive. The court shut its eyes to this legal position and declared Gawuna, who is not a party in the proceedings, a winner of the election.

In the determination of grounds 2 and 3 of the petition, the tribunal refused to follow the precedent in Obi v INEC, Atiku v INEC, AYETOLA V INEC, BONI V MUAZU and several other decisions decided by the superior court. This decision is indeed one of a kind!

Muhammad Shamsuddeen is a legal practitioner based in Kano.

By Aisha M. Auyo

In my last article, I wrote about how verbal appreciation affects marriage. In this episode, I will discuss how our words have the power to build or break our marriages. Words are not just for communication; they are for construction and destruction.

We are builders when we use our words wisely. With our words, we are creating a marriage that matters, a union that makes it through the good and bad, through thick and thin.

Here are a few things that you can build with your words in marriage

1. Intimacy

Intimacy is not just something physical. Share your heart with your spouse. Cultivating a marriage with meaningful communication will build deeper intimacy. 

Words move two hearts closer together and unite them as one. 

Dear wife, be patient with your husband – we all know men generally don’t talk as much… They are people of action.

Allah didn’t create marriage to be boring! Have fun for His sakes! From sending a naughty text during the day, a random phone call with words that will make your spouse want to finish whatever they are doing and come home to using words that will build anticipation.

Simple sentences like “I made your favourite dish” or “I’ll come home with your favourite smoothie” can do the trick. It is not the entity that matters. It’s about knowing that your Significant Other has thought about you and even tried to do what pleases you.

When you are together, set aside time for just the two of you to talk. Be intentional and selective with your words. Flirt with one another.

2. Build encouragement

Wives, one of the best things YOU can do for your relationship is to be an encourager. Encouragement can come naturally through sincere daily prayers. Through voicing delight in whatever is done or given to you, through words of gratitude. This will make him want to do more.

Men, women are highly receptive to words. Simple sentences could fuel her attitude for years. The phrase “Allah yai miki albarka” (We want this very badly), or “We can’t do without you”, is all she needs to hear to be her very best.

3. Build confidence

Life is hard, full of tough and sobering reminders that we live in a broken world. So, use your words to encourage and build hope in your spouse. 

Tell them you believe in them and trust their ability to excel. In a world full of competition, envy, and self-doubt, be the number one person who believes your spouse, uplift them, and make them trust themselves. From writing exams, presentations, business ideas, etc. Instil the seed of belief and confidence in them.

Men, please encourage your wife and boost her confidence in her looks and dreams. We need this like oxygen. With your support and trust, we can be the best version of ourselves.

Women, showing doubt in your man’s ability or dreams will kill his ego. His zeal to work hard, his zeal to excel. If there’s one thing that keeps men alive more than oxygen, it should be a massaged ego.

4. Heal

Words heal broken people, sick people, tired people, people who lost loved ones, even people in coma! I’m sure you’ve watched a movie where friends or families of a person in life support talk and say good things to them, and with time, the person in a coma comes back to life. This works not only in movies but also in real life. 

Soothing words for a broken person can help their physical and mental recovery immensely. Hearing someone say that they care about you, believe in your ability to heal, or that life will get better is often enough to improve someone’s mood in their lows.

Life-changing events, sickness, ailment, etc., can affect one spouse or the other. Be the person who brings harmony and healing to your spouse through words. Make it a point to say something positive to your significant other, even once a day.

However, let us always remember that our words can cripple, destroy and disrupt as much as they can build and construct. Verbal abuse is as powerful and destructive as physical abuse. It’s not every time we say what we feel. Most times (Not always woo), silence is better than some utterances. 

Avoid any word that will bring negativity, fear, or discouragement to your spouse. Never threaten or demean your spouse. If an issue needs to be resolved, choose your words wisely.

Know that words, once spoken out, can never be taken aback. The words ‘I’m sorry’, ‘I don’t mean it,’ and ‘it was a joke’ can never undo what you said. Some words create wounds that apology will never heal.

Aisha Musa Auyo is a Doctorate researcher in Educational Psychology, a wife, a mother of three, a homemaker, a caterer and a parenting/ relationship coach.

By Aisha Mahmud Yusuf

In August 2020, when my father was admitted to the hospital, my friend, who was doing her youth service (NYSC) at the same hospital, visited him. She later came when I was with him and told me something no one else had. She said, “I know exactly how you feel, and it’s okay to have all those emotions.” She understood that because her father had also been sick for years.

A few years later, some of my friends whose parents became sick would ask me, “Is that how you feel?” I would tell them it would get better with time and pray for the sick to get better. It made me realize that we don’t talk about it because without experiencing it, one doesn’t know how it feels to have a sick loved one and take care of them. 

Often, when someone is sick, what people see is the financial burden on the family members. But there is much more that they don’t see. The stress, anxiety, fear, and sometimes even guilt that the family members, especially the caregivers, go through is rarely acknowledged. Unfortunately, sometimes people even add to all these with their judgements and (sometimes accusations) unsolicited suggestions and advice on how to care for the patient.

People expect one to be a caregiver without showing emotions, to be on one’s feet 24/7 without a break, forgetting that we are humans too and there is a limit to what we can endure. 

In a society where mental health is still not a priority, you as a caregiver should take time to process your emotions and, if possible, take a break to avoid burnout. You cannot give from an empty cup. If it becomes overwhelming, find someone to listen and talk to them. 

When next you visit a sick person, check their caregivers too, share a few kind words, and appreciate them.  That will go a long way for them. Also, if a caregiver opens up to you, listen with empathy even if you don’t understand because you are not in their shoes and ask if you can help in any way.

Aisha Mahmud Yusuf wrote via aishatyusuf63@gmail.com.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu

As a citizen of this great country, my dream of a united and prosperous Nigeria is not merely a wish but a vision that I believe is soon to become a reality. 

Nigeria’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths. With over 250 ethnic groups, various languages, and a vibrant tapestry of cultures, our nation possesses immense potential for creativity, innovation, and resilience. I firmly believe embracing and celebrating this diversity is vital to unity.

As a giant of Africa, Nigeria has abundant natural resources, including oil, minerals, and arable land. Our economy has the potential to thrive, create jobs, and improve the standard of living for all Nigerians. To realise this dream, we must invest in sustainable development, diversify our economy, and ensure that the wealth generated benefits all citizens.

Furthermore, A united and prosperous Nigeria must prioritise education and innovation. Our population is a valuable asset, and by providing quality education, vocational training, and support for research and development, we can unlock their potential and drive economic growth.

To achieve prosperity, we must demand transparency, accountability, and good governance from our leaders. A united Nigeria requires leaders who prioritise the welfare of the people, uphold the rule of law, and work tirelessly to eliminate corruption.

Security is a fundamental prerequisite for prosperity. We must address security challenges, promote peace, and foster an environment where businesses thrive, and citizens can live without fear. 

Investing in infrastructure, such as roads, healthcare facilities, and power generation, is essential for our nation’s progress. This improves the quality of life, attracts investments, and creates job opportunities.

Active participation of citizens in the democratic process is crucial. We must engage in dialogue, vote responsibly, and hold our leaders accountable for their actions to ensure that our collective dream is realised.

Together, we can build a Nigeria where every citizen enjoys the fruits of unity and prosperity and our nation stands as a beacon of hope and progress for all of Africa.

Usman Muhammad Salihu writes and can be reached via muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin

What initially appeared as rumours of a coup attempt in the Niger Republic gradually and eventually proved true. Even when the leader of the coup d’état, Presidential Guard Commander General Abdourahamane Tchiani, announced the overthrow and proclaimed himself the leader of a new military junta, there remained a doubt in the air due to the exclusion (or so it seemed) of the Nigerien Chief of Army Staff. However, all traces of doubt cleared when the military declared their support for the coup. They cited loyalty to avoid casualties from internal military clashes. Since then, news and developments have dominated the public discourse hourly. Small and major national and international media outlets pinched their tenths on this event. 

The Nigerien coup has drawn significant attention compared to other recent similar operations. For instance, in Conakry, Chief of Army Mamady Doumbouya ousted his authoritarian leader Alpha Condé. In Mali, the junta overthrew its transitional president a few months after their appointment. In Niger’s neighbouring Burkina Faso, the junta toppled another transitional government they had installed months earlier. 

The reasons for the global condemnation of the Nigerien coup differ among various blocs. France and its allies might be concerned about the potential loss of influence over their former colonies. The U.S. stance is partly rooted in their role as self-appointed global police guardians of democracy. It is also due to their military base housing thousands of soldiers within the country. Russia, on the other hand, seems to be benefiting from the situation. However, for organisations like the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the coup posed a direct threat to democratic leadership, reaching an alarming level. So the ECOWAS bigwig Nigeria, which not only shares proximity with Niger but also has its president as ECOWAS leader, tends to overreact. Bola Ahmed Tinubu was fighting from a dual role. 

The Nigerian coup came as a surprising shock, sudden and unexpected. Unlike many similar military strikes, this coup lacked potential factors pointing to its occurrence. Such factors often include internal crises, insecurity, tension, hardship, prolonged presidential tenure, crackdowns on the opposition, and suppression of dissent. The renowned Ghanaian coup leader Jerry Rawlings once noted that the success of his coups was owed to the ripe situation in his country. He likened the atmosphere for coup success to a saturated atmosphere filled with gas, waiting for ignition to burst into flames. However, in the case of Niger, none of those factors seem to be in play. 

One plausible theory regarding the reason behind the Niger coup has been put forward by a friend who also serves as an elder brother figure. This theory revolves around the wave of change sweeping through Francophone Africa. The leadership of France appears to be faltering due to its neo-colonial approach toward its former colonies. This approach doesn’t align with the interests of the affected countries, leading to increasing unrest. Both civilians and the military are discontented with this interference, creating an environment conducive to a coup. This theory gains weight considering the surge of support that followed the coup. The military cut all ties with France to bolster this perspective and sought to shift their allegiance towards Russia. But wait! President Basoum’s public statements aligned with this shift. His videos, circulating on social media, included threats to sever remaining ties with France gave rise to the conspiracy theory as the reason behind the coup. But with the current unfolding, the question arises: Is Basoum genuinely committed to this path, or is he merely putting on a facade? 

Russia appears threatened by Western encroachment, mainly through proxy conflicts in its neighbouring countries. The most recent instance of this is the situation in Ukraine. However, suddenly, Russia found a windfall at the doorstep: developments in Africa. Aggrieved African countries with the West swiftly shifted their allegiances towards Russia as a rival to Western powers. This scenario offers an alternative to the dominant Western influence—a sort of counterbalance. The concept of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), akin to NATO or perhaps a stronger G7, also garners mass interest in joining. Six countries, namely Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Argentina, Egypt and Ethiopia, joined this movement in January 2024. Such a development holds promise for rebalancing global power dynamics. It provides other developing countries with an alternative.

Those who previously leaked atomic technology to Russia would be very happy with this development. After the United States successfully developed and detonated nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, effectively ending Second World War II, some of the bomb’s developers had worries: the disruption of the global power balance. As a result, according to reports, they leaked the technology to their arch-rival, the USSR.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin is a Doctoral candidate in Chemical Engineering at ABU Zaria. He is also a social and political affairs commentator and science writer.

By Aliyu Zainab Lawal

Students’ academic performance is measured based on their results. Poor academic performance is primarily attributed to the lack of commitment and preparation in and outside the classrooms. Academic results measure students’ understanding and skill in a particular subject or course. As said by Dr Adama Adamu, the current H.O.D of Mass Communication, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, exams and tests remain powerful instruments for assessing students.

Academically, results reflect students’ knowledge and understanding of the subject matter. They equally depict how well a student has better grasped the concepts and principles imparted to them in classrooms. High grades denote strong comprehension.

Reportedly, results assess how students can apply their problem-solving knowledge and skills. This is apparent in how they demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving, analytical skills, and practical applications of theoretical concepts.

Moreover, several existing factors influence academic performance, encapsulating students’ preparations and readiness. They include effort and time investment, active learning, time management, and consistent revision. Developing These elements equitably would inevitably positively impact student’s results.

Also, academic results serve as feedback for improvement and consolidation. They enable the students to identify their strengths and weaknesses. By subjecting their results to analysis, students can focus on areas that need improvement and further develop strategies to enhance their academic performance.

The Department of Mass Communication and many other departments within Ahmadu Bello University stick to the conventional way of result release by pasting them on boards in a public place for all the students to witness. This is also the act many of the students I interviewed despised, as they believe that results are everyone’s confidential treasure. By extension, they are not supposed to be made public. Therefore, students should have their transcripts privately.

However, Dr Kabiru Danladi, a lecturer from the Mass Communication Department of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, shed more light on the issue when he said, “It is a law to paste results in a public place as soon as they get approved by the Senate as they now become public property”. He added that any department giving transcripts without first pasting the results violates the law.

Aliyu Zainab Lawal wrote via aliyuzainablawal442@gmail.com.

By By Muhammad Ubale Kiru

The recent decision by France to ban the iPhone 12 due to concerns about its radiation emissions has sent shockwaves across the tech world. While this move may seem drastic to some, it reflects a growing global awareness of the potential health risks associated with certain electronic devices. China, too, has taken a stand against iPhones in official capacities, citing national security concerns. 

France’s decision to bar the iPhone 12 from its market underscores its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its citizens. The government’s primary motive appears to be ensuring that the radiation emitted by these devices does not pose any risks to public health. 

Similarly, China’s decision to restrict the use of iPhones by government officials stems from concerns over data security. The Chinese government has long been cautious about potential espionage activities by foreign entities, and it views certain American technology companies with suspicion.

The big question now is: where will these banned iPhones end up? For many, the answer seems to be Africa, particularly countries like Nigeria. In Nigeria, consumer demand for iPhones remains high, and concerns over radiation emissions are often secondary to the allure of the brand. Additionally, a significant portion of the population may not fully understand the potential health risks associated with radiation.

To shed light on the issue, let’s briefly delve into what radiation is and how it can impact health. Radiation is the emission and propagation of energy in the form of waves or particles through space or a medium. In the context of iPhones, we’re talking about radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted when the device connects to cellular networks or Wi-Fi. 

Radiation can affect health in several ways:

1. Thermal Effects: RF radiation can cause the heating of body tissues, particularly when a device is held close to the body for extended periods.

2. Non-Thermal Effects: Some studies have suggested potential non-thermal effects of RF radiation, including changes in brain activity, sleep disturbances, and alterations in cell function. While the evidence remains inconclusive, these concerns warrant further research.

3. Cancer: Radiation has been associated with a potential risk of cancer. It can cause DNA damage, mutations in genes, uncontrolled cell growth, and eventually lead to tumor formation. Brain cancer, in particular, has been studied in relation to mobile phone use.

While it may be challenging to change consumer preferences overnight, it is vital to raise awareness about potential health risks associated with certain devices. People should consider their health when making choices about the technology they use daily. 

Furthermore, governments in African nations, including Nigeria, should play an active role in monitoring and evaluating the safety of electronic devices before they enter the market. By adopting stricter standards and conducting thorough assessments, they can better protect their citizens from potential health hazards associated with radiation-emitting devices.

Muhammad Ubale Kiru is a tech enthusiast, social activist and freelancer. He can be reached via muhdujkiru@gmail.com.

By Najeebullah Lawan

It becomes a new normal that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) embark on a strike to press demand on one issue or another almost every year in Nigeria. This menace has been here since 2009, with each year’s strike becoming worse than the previous one. The feud between ASUU and the Federal Government (FG) has badly, as it is clear, affected the education system in Nigeria.

The battle corners include revitalisation of the universities, providing infrastructure, enhancing research conducts, and reviewing lecturers’ salaries and allowances, among others, as contained in the MoU signed by the Nigerian government and ASUU.

It is essential to note that ASUU is a union of Academic Staff of Universities consisting of [except a few] lecturers from the Nigerian public universities.

These lecturers have wives, children and relatives in the schools they teach nationwide who are under their sponsorship from their hard earnings.

I believe these people will never do anything that could temper with the system because their close relatives and children benefit from it.

Moreover, our lecturers spent decades without substantial review of their salaries despite all the hikes in the price of foodstuffs and other necessities in Nigeria. It is heartbreaking that a university professor earns less than the salary of some government appointees – SAs and PAs.

It is unbecoming to leave these people alone fighting the government that leaves them without the good welfare their counterparts enjoy, even in many African countries. This fight is for all of us.!

In 2020, ASUU stood up to fight for their rights and the students in general, which led to the total closure of all universities in Nigeria. However, the coronavirus pandemic also contributed immensely to the longevity of this strike, making it one of the worst and longest strikes ever in the history of Nigerian universities.

Unfortunately, the Nigerian government did nothing to stop the strike. It betrayed the university lecturers, leaving them and their students stranded amidst a dilemma.

Again, in 2021, there was another strike by the university lecturers who demanded FG to fulfil its promises made in 2012 and 2020. This strike lasted eight months, and the lecturers were not paid a single kobo. As I write this, FG still owes lecturers months’ salaries and areas.

For all the struggle by ASUU, they were doing this for the betterment and standardisation of higher institutions nationwide. However, they got nothing from most of the students and parents in return except insults and mocks.

As of that time, ASUU warned students and parents that if FG defeated them in that fight, there would be a serious problem for students and parents that not everyone could bear.

Defeating ASUU, the Federal Government deliberately refused to fund its universities with enough funds.

As a result, in 2023, there was an increment in registration fees by many universities, such as the University of Maiduguri, University of Benin, University of Lagos, ATBU, ABU and a host of others. However, the one by Bayero University, Kano (BUK), brought a loud noise in the entire north, probably due to its status. Here are some clarifications:

1:- We heard that the university Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Abbas, made an explanation concerning the situation of the universities in Nigeria, saying that everything related to running the administration of the university is costly.

2:- Recently, ABU extended the resumption date for students due to an outage by the Kaduna Electric Distribution Company (KAEDCO) over alleged millions of Naira debt, which ABU owes KAEDCO.

3:- The monthly budget for running Bayero University is close to N100m. This money is spent on KEDCO for power, diesel, water and security.

4:- The FG is giving only N11m, which represents only 1% out of 10% BUK is spending every month, and the management of the university manages to utilise the system with the little they are getting from the government.

5:- The current economic situation of Nigeria and the Federal Government’s manner towards universities has left the management of Bayero University, Kano, with no option but to increase the central registration fee for students.

Despite these, BUK remains the cheapest Federal University in the entire north except for a few varsities currently in the second semester, and a review of their registration fees could be seen as something inevitable.

Regarding the just concluded points, we can say that ASUU does not hate education, and its fight is for the system’s revival. Also, the increment of university registration comes from negligence by the Federal Government. Meanwhile, without this kind of increment, the system will undoubtedly collapse.

Najibullah writes from Kano, Nassarawa Local Government. He can be reached via najeebullahlawan@gmail.com

By Sani Hassan Sulaiman

Taking exams is an inherent part of academic life. Understandably, many students find it difficult and stressful. However, with proper preparation, a clear strategy, and effective study techniques, it is possible to navigate exams in a more manageable and successful way. In this article, I will explore some key steps to help students simplify the examination process and maximise their chances of success.

1. Create a Study Plan:

The first step to achieving exam success is to develop a comprehensive study plan by organising the materials to be covered and setting realistic goals for each study session. Allocate specific time slots for subjects, ensuring a balanced distribution of subjects based on their importance and difficulty level. A study plan will help students stay organised, cover all the necessary topics, and avoid last-minute cramming.

2. Understand the Exam Format:

Familiarising oneself with the exam format is essential to approach the examination more relaxedly. Students should thoroughly review the syllabus, marking schemes, and previous years’ question papers or study guides. Understanding the structure of the exam will enable students to identify the areas that require more attention, practice answering different questions, and manage their time effectively during the actual examination.

3. Active Learning Techniques:

Passive learning methods such as reading, highlighting, and summarising may be helpful to absorb information temporarily but can be ineffective when it comes to long-term retention. Instead, incorporating active learning techniques like self-quizzing, teaching someone else, and solving practice questions can significantly enhance understanding and memory recall. Engaging with the material actively reinforces learning and builds confidence, making it easier to apply knowledge during the exam.

4. Review and Revise:

Regular revision is crucial in solidifying knowledge and ensuring it remains fresh in one’s mind. Schedule regular review sessions throughout the study period to reinforce the learned concepts. Utilise revision techniques such as flashcards, mind maps, or regularly writing summaries. Revisiting the topics regularly will help students retain information longer, preventing last-minute panic and providing a smoother exam experience.

5. Manage Stress and Optimize Performance:

Managing stress is essential to perform at one’s best. You should practice self-care, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and get enough sleep to promote mental sharpness and concentration. Implementing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or engaging in physical activities can help reduce anxiety levels and boost overall well-being. Maintaining a positive mindset and visualising success can also enhance motivation and confidence.

Conclusion:

Navigating exams successfully involves more than simply studying hard. Students can simplify the examination process by incorporating effective study strategies, thoughtful planning, and stress management techniques, increasing their chances of achieving better results. Remember, success in exams is a journey that requires dedication, perseverance, and a holistic approach to learning. With the right mindset and adequate preparation, students can confidently face any exam challenge that comes their way.

Sani Hassan Sulaiman wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna state.

By Huzaifa Dokaji

When people reflect on the fall of the Sokoto Caliphate in 1903, they often conjure up images of British soldiers armed with the formidable Maxim gun on the left, juxtaposed with local inhabitants wielding swords, bows, and arrows on the right, fervently chanting “Allahu akbar.” Unfortunately, this portrayal does not align with historical reality. The foot soldiers were mainly Africans, while Europeans primarily served as commanders and strategists rather than frontline combatants. The bulk of the invading forces were drawn from previously subjugated regions, frequently comprising individuals from the target community itself.

As demonstrated by Philip Afaedie’s PhD thesis, The Hidden Hand of Overrule: Political Agents and the Establishment of British Colonial Rule in Northern Nigeria, 1886–1914, individuals such as Adamu Jakada established their reputations and livelihoods by providing valuable intelligence to European forces. In the case of Kano, for instance, Ciroman Kano Abdu Lele, the son of Emir Kano Tukur (reigned 1893–1895), supported the British invasion in exchange for their promise to restore him to the Kano throne, which his family had lost after the Kano Civil War (1893–1895), known as the Basasa (of course they didn’t honour the agreement after the war!). Others, driven by diverse motivations, also aligned themselves with the British cause.

As recounted by Baba of Karo to Mary Smith (see Baba of Karo: A Woman of the Hausa Muslim), people in rural areas, fed up with pervasive political and social corruption, celebrated colonial conquest with a popular song, “Nasara kun dade ba ku zo ba”. The Resident of Kano also noted in an intelligence report to the British acting High Commissioner on July 9th, 1903, that the peasantry embraced British conquest due to their deep-seated resentment towards their rulers. “Nasara kun dade ba ku zo ba” carries more profound implications than its composers may have intended. Scholars like Murray Last (1967), Rudolph Ware (2014) and Paul Lovejoy (2016), along with others, have shown us how and why the Sokoto Jihad was one of the most important political and social revolutions of the 19th century, thanks to the egalitarian nature of its goals. However, Nasara kun dade ba ku zo ba demonstrates how such ideals were lost by the closing decade of the century, prompting common people to seek refuge in the hands of Christians. Nevertheless, the intellectual class remained committed to their quest for an egalitarian society through the Islamic ideological vehicle.

M.S. Umar’s seminal work, Islam and Colonialism: Intellectual Responses of Muslims of Northern Nigeria to British Colonial Rule, has powerfully shown us how such intellectuals reacted to British colonial conquest and the various strategies they adopted to challenge it. They saw it as temporary—God’s wrath upon an erring community. Defining the conquest as a temporary setback, the grand vizier of the Sokoto Caliphate equated it to the shaving of a beard.

In his poems titled Nuzhah and Intisaf, Sheikh Yahya an-Naffakh (b. 1898 and known as Malam) described the British conquest as the ‘triumph of absurdity’ caused by scholars who have replaced ‘the humility of Knowledge with the stupidity of ignorance’ and rulers who have exchanged ‘the wisdom of governance with the arrogance of past glory’. Malam himself came from a family that was a victim of such crass anarchy. The winning side of the Kano Civil War imprisoned his father, who was a legitimist. A young Malam secured his release by writing a petition to the Resident of Kano, Mr. Palmer, advocating against the unjust imprisonment.

Although oral traditions suggest that Dan Fodio prophesied the fall of the Caliphate to European Christians, it is more plausible that news of their encroachment reached Sokoto through traders and pilgrims travelling the trans-Saharan trade routes, ultimately reaching Mecca. For instance, in the early 19th century, the influential Lagos trader Madam Tinubu sent a letter to the Caliph of Sokoto, Bello dan Fodio, informing him of European activities along the coast. Furthermore, Paul Lovejoy’s research on Umar el-Fellati reveals that Fellati witnessed the British occupation of Egypt in 1882 and even acted as a double agent, providing the British with information about the Caliphate while simultaneously reporting on British activities in Northern Africa.

Huzaifa Dokaji is a PhD student and teaching assistant at the Department of History, State University of New York at Sony Brook. He can be reached via huzaifa.dokaji@stonybrook.edu.