The fate of almajirai in Nigeria

The almajiri system of education in Nigeria needs to be overhauled. Parents send their children to a spiritual leader who has no means of livelihood to teach them the religion of Islam. But these children end up being used as slaves and beggars. Some of them are even molested and abused in unimaginable ways. It […]

The almajiri system of education in Nigeria needs to be overhauled. Parents send their children to a spiritual leader who has no means of livelihood to teach them the religion of Islam. But these children end up being used as slaves and beggars. Some of them are even molested and abused in unimaginable ways.

It is high time the Nigerian government limited the number of children a couple could have as it is done in China. It is unreasonable to give birth to children you cannot provide for. What is the rationale behind producing children you cannot fend for? These children are humans who deserve better. They deserve to have shelter, food, education and to be loved.

The government should look into this anomaly before it goes out of control.

Hussaina Bala, Nasarawa State

Crime on the rise

Crime is now the order of the day in Nigeria. Gunmen now kidnap travellers without fear of possible arrest. Brothers kill their siblings over trivial matters.

Also, the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) arm of the Nigeria Police Force harasses innocent people without warrant or official backing and sometimes carry out extrajudicial killings.

It is really disheartening to see Nigeria becoming a lawless country.

Politicians now steal brazenly because they know there will be little or no consequence. This is not how a country should be. We are fast becoming barbaric. Those in positions of authority should make concerted efforts to reposition this country rather than enrich their pockets. May God help our dear country, Nigeria.

Abisoye Onabanjo, Lagos State

Hike in electricity tariffs

The decision of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission to increase electricity tariff really baffles me. We do not get enough power supply to provoke such a hike. Some communities didn’t have power supply during the festivities.

They should focus on ensuring an even distribution of power to all the communities in Nigeria rather than trying to increase the tariff. This commission should also make sure that meters are given to all their customers. It is pure extortion when power distribution companies bring estimated bills even when their customers have not enjoyed the necessary service. The hike in electricity is in no way justified and should be cancelled.

Cynthia Akpoviroro, Akwa Ibom State

Stop the fires

Nigeria seems to be on fire. I thought the spate of incidents would stop in 2019, but I was wrong. This year has already witnessed several fire incidents; and it is highly unfortunate.

Properties worth millions of naira have been lost in such a short time. Measures should be taken to make sure that these fires are prevented.

But the government cannot do this alone. Citizens should take necessary fire precautions; for example, do not leave flammable objects close to the gas. Ensure you switch off all electrical appliances before you leave your home, office and other places.

These little things go a long way in preventing fire incidents. I wish everyone a safe year.

Joy Ezioku, Abia State