Category: Letters

Sir: The primary objective of every government is to provide requisite social services to its citizenry. And although many might argue that a government deals with much more crucial matters than the mere provision of social amenities, it is a known fact that every governmental action – every sitting, every bill, every law and whatnot –  are geared toward bettering the citizenry’s living conditions.

Mr. Governor, the first four years of your administration saw the state evolve into arguably the largest construction site in the country. Little wonder there was a spine-tingling ecstacy and ginger amongst Lagosians to ensure the continuity of your government considering its rich history with regard to service delivery. And today, a few months after an eventful electoral process, Lagosians can sit back and relax knowing full well that their beloved state is still under your direction at least for another four years. 

Unfortunately, the first few days of your second term have been beset by the removal of petrol subsidy leading to a hike in pump prices which has consequently resulted in a rather astronomic increase in the cost of living across the state (and elsewhere). One major spinoff of this development is a more-than-hundred-percent increase in transport fares making things all the harder amidst an already existing hyper inflation, nationwide.

Mr. Governor, although we are all affected by this development, it is quite saddening that students, who are arguably the worst hit victims, have been left all alone to bear the prongs of this episode. It is on this note that I write, to call your attention to the severity of our situation. Ordinarily, even without transportation constraints, students already have a mountain of expenses they endlessly struggle to bear, so considering the fact that most universities (public) in the state do not have halls of residence on campus while the few that do usually site them far away from campus grounds.

The purpose of this letter is to seek your help in cushioning the effects of the hike in PMS prices. Some simple interventions will certainly abate our woes. One of such is the provision of palliative buses for students of public tertiary institutions in the state. And while we crave your indulgence on this, it is also imperative to inform you that, whereas many suggestions on how to cushion the effects of this period are usually only strong in rhetoric but weak in substance and practicality, this is a very realistic solution as proven by precedents.

A similar system currently runs at the University of Lagos where buses donated by the state government transport students to and from the school campus; and only recently did your counterpart, AbdulRahmon AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, approve the deployment of government buses to support movement of students and workers in public tertiary institutions in his state.  And although we naturally expect Lagos State to pioneer moves like this, it is not too late, dear governor, to hearken to our cries.

Not only will an urgent action in this regard etch your name on the hearts of students, it will also help rekindle the faith of Lagosians (students, especially) on the fact that you still remain the listening governor they elected into office.   

•Mujeeb Awonuga,  Lagos State University, Ojo.

Sir: Once upon a time, Nigeria paraded the best set of authors and publishers in Africa. At that time, reading held innate affection for both young and old. The reading culture reflected so much on the quality of leadership and civil discipline that it brought pride to Nigerians anywhere in the world!

Now, the rich literacy history is gradually being eroded. A new type of reading problem is sweeping our country. It is called Aliteracy – the quality or state of being able to read but being uninterested in doing so. Yes, reading which was once indulged in as a pleasure is now often spurned as a chore.

Nigeria has been rated by the World Culture Score index as one of the countries in the world with the lowest reading culture. Available statistics from the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education show that 38 per cent of Nigerians are non-literate, as four in every 10 primary school children cannot read for comprehension. Regrettably, this adverse development is an ominous challenge that the country seems not to be paying the needed attention.

Globally, the influence of new technology has altered the disposition to reading. Perhaps the most time-consuming competitor of reading is television. Also, the decline in the standard of education has seriously affected reading ability.

Before now, schools engaged and participated in, reading activities to enhance the thinking and creative ability of students. But lack of availability of suitable reading materials, absence of well-designed reading activities, insufficiently trained staff to prosecute reading culture in schools and ineffective monitoring and evaluation of readership promotion programmes are constant challenges currently affecting readership development.

Another possible factor contributing to the poor reading culture in Nigeria is perhaps that our socio-economic environment is not reader friendly. The daily struggle for economic survival provides little or no time for people to cultivate a good reading habit. Equally, high cost of books, particularly imported ones, as well as a dearth of dedicated quiet reading spaces like libraries, has contributed to low readership promotion in the country.

It is commendable that certain individuals and organizations are making concerted efforts to revive the reading culture in the country. To improve the reading culture among young ones, more books should be procured for children than smart phones and tablets. Nigerian homes need to be fitted with more bookshelves and bookcases than flat screen TVs and laptops. There should be increased funding for the education sector and the government must take an active role in resuscitating good reading habits. Existing libraries should be refurbished, and there should be a redesign of the school curriculum to incorporate more reading activities. There should also be effective campaigns to bring back the libraries to our schools and communities.

•Daniel Ighakpe, FESTAC Town, Lagos.

SIR: The recent appointment of Alhaji Baba Malam Wali as the Acting Secretary to the Yobe State Government is a stark reflection of the lack of direction within the Mai-Mala Buni administration. It is disheartening to note that Malam Wali has spent a staggering 12 years as the SSG without making any meaningful contributions to the development of Yobe. His latest appointment raises serious questions about the governor’s ability to make informed and prudent decisions.

Governor Buni must be made aware that his decision to reappoint individuals who have previously demonstrated lack of performance and commitment towards the development of Yobe is a grave display of democratic irresponsibility. A good leader must acknowledge and rectify the shortcomings within his administration, as this directly impacts the welfare and progress of the state and its citizens.

Simply, by reappointing those underperforming individuals, Governor Buni is sending a disheartening message to the people of Yobe – that their aspirations for growth and prosperity are being disregarded. This action alone undermines the principles of good governance, accountability, and meritocracy, all of which are vital for the effective functioning of a democratic society.

Read Also: Buni appoints acting SSG, CoS

Instead of perpetuating a culture of mediocrity and complacency, Governor Buni should prioritize the appointment of competent and visionary individuals who possess the skills, dedication, and experience necessary to drive the development agenda of Yobe forward. It is only through the deployment of capable leaders that the state can overcome its challenges, capitalize on its resources, and uplift the lives of its citizens.

Reappointing individuals who have previously failed to deliver results without any clear justification erodes public trust and confidence in the government’s ability to make sound and rational decisions. It is time for Buni to embrace transparency, inclusivity, and merit-based selection processes to ensure that the best interests of Yobe and its people are upheld.

Buni must recognize that his choices have far-reaching implications for the future of Yobe and act in a manner that reflects his obligation to democratic principles and the aspirations of the citizens. Only through decisive action, holding individuals accountable for their performance, and fostering an environment of excellence can Yobe truly achieve its potential as a prosperous and thriving state.

In a nutshell, Governor Buni needs to comprehend that the fate of Yobe rests squarely on his shoulders. Reappointing individuals who have proven to be incompetent is nothing short of jeopardizing the future of Yobe and its residents. It is high time Governor Buni put on his thinking cap and appoint individuals who possess the vision and capability to reshape the destiny of our state.

•Kasim Isa Muhammad,

Potiskum, Yobe State.

SIR: The Nigerian public space has become a treacherous terrain of toxicity no thanks to cheap talk that is whipping up cheap hate, especially on social media. Nigeria’s multilingual, multi-ethnic and incredibly diverse society has come to steadily confound and dumbfound critics, cynics, and analysts in equal measure.

While Lord Lugard’s amalgamation of 1914 brought the Northern and Southern protectorates together in 1914 to form the country as it is known today, independence took until 1960. Nation building has taken ever since, with the sobering events of 1967 to 1970 when Nigeria cascaded into an avoidable civil war defining many things.

Nigeria has not done badly as a country even if there have been many painful moments.

Many a Nigerian problem today comes down to a lack of unity. For all that corruption has stolen from the country, the cankerworm has benefited from the fact that the country’s challenge has been enfeebled by a lack of unity of purpose.

Because Nigerians have struggled painfully to mine their diversity, there are those who have come to weaponize ethnicity. Their primary tactic is hate speech with which they seek to becloud reason and appeal to primitive and primordial sentiments.

 According to the United Nations, hate speech calls out real or perceived “identity factors” of an individual or a group, including: “religion, ethnicity, nationality, race, colour, descent, gender,” but also characteristics such as language, economic or social origin, disability, health status, or sexual orientation, among many others.

Recently, in the face of Nigeria’s security issues which have weighed heavily on public consciousness, the country has made efforts to tackle hate speech, especially in public and on social media by those determined to sunder the country.

It appears that every region of the country today has its demons to battle. In most of the North it is insecurity at the hands of bandits. In most of the South, it is secessionist agitations that have snowballed into vicious insecurity. At the heart of these existential challenges is the relentless desire of some people to see just how much dent they can make on the country.

Read Also: 2023: INEC cautions politicians against hate speeches during campaigns

 In Nigeria, hate speech has taken different forms, with each form more dangerous than the last. There have been long, windy speeches dripping with venom, vitriol, and hate directed to different individuals within the country. These speeches deliberately designed as they have targeted people for their religions.

 As Nigeria has moved to tackle hate speech by aid of legislation, it has found itself confronted with structures imposed by law.

In 2020, an audacious attempt by legislation to check hate speech especially on social media was met by stiff resistance from Nigerians who saw it as a poorly disguised attempt to impinge on their freedom of speech. But there is a clear line between countering hate speech and impeding free speech.

The Rabat Plan of Action was adopted by experts at the wrap-up meeting in Rabat on 4-5 October 2012.It was aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of legislative patterns, judicial practices and policies regarding the concept of incitement to national, racial, or religious hatred, while ensuring full respect for freedom of expression as outlined in articles 19 and 20 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The Plan of Action was also aimed at arriving at a comprehensive assessment of the state of implementation of the prohibition of incitement in conformity with international human rights law and the identification of possible actions at all levels.

 The Plan of Action includes a broad range of recommendations for how religious leaders and actors can prevent incitement to violence and contribute to peace and stability. It is meant primarily as a tool to inform the work of religious leaders and actors, but is also relevant for states and institutions, secular civil society organizations and the media.

Nigerians must each take countering hate speech as a personal responsibility. Hate speech is a weapon in the hands of those who do not want to see the prosperity of Nigerians. It no coincidence that a lot of hate speech usually goes into politics and elections. It is often a well-hatched ploy to turn Nigerians against each other, heat up the polity and lead to the commission of vicious crimes as it is an open secret that hate speech leads to hate crimes.

For every Nigerian, whether on social media or in everyday conversation, speech must be directed and dedicated to building a more peaceful and prosperous country where restraint is important and alienation, exclusion, discrimination and hate are eschewed.

•Ike Willy,

 Ikewilly9@gmail.com.

Sir: There is a tribal saying that the tongue resides in a wet place. The Englishman calls it a Freudian slip. It is believed that when a person is inebriated, he often reveals his true feelings through words. Even the Bible says “out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks”.

The statement by Senator Adamu Bulkachuwa on the floor of the senate during the valedictory session of the 9th National Assembly has generated furore among Nigerians. Senator Bulkachuwa whose wife Zainab, was the first female President of the Court of Appeal had during his speech made allusions to the fact that he influenced the judicial decisions of his wife in favour of his colleagues. His words: “I look at faces in this chamber who have come to me and sought my help when my wife was the President of the Court of Appeal. And I must thank particularly, my wife, whose freedom and independence I encroached upon while she was in office, and she has been very tolerant and accepted my encroachment, and extended her help to my colleagues”. While the senator was singing like a canary, the former Senate President, Senator Ahmed Lawan who was visibly embarrassed, attempted severally to silence him and only succeeded on the third try. Due to criticisms from several quarters, Senator Bulkachuwa has attempted to swallow his words, claiming he was misquoted while his wife has defended herself saying she never favoured any party during her years of service.

Over the years, rumours of endemic corruption have assailed the judiciary. Bulkachuwa’s gaffe seems to lend credence to this. Nigerians are aghast at several illogical and contradictory pronouncements that have emerged from the temple of justice most especially on political matters. We have seen misapplication of legal instruments, dubious plea bargaining and interlocutory orders, and excessive delays in determining cases. In March 2008, Justice Ibrahim Buba of the Federal High Court granted an order of perpetual injunction restraining the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from investigating or prosecuting a former governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili. At the time, Odili’s wife, Justice Mary Odili was a high ranking member of the bench who later ended up in the Supreme Court before her retirement.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for the probe and arrest of both Senator Adamu and Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa. I stand to be corrected but I do not think that will be possible. One, there are claims that his speech on the senate floor is covered by parliamentary immunity. Two, she is a retired jurist and the National Judicial Council (NJC) does not have a history of investigating or prosecuting retired jurists for judicial decisions while in service. It will most likely be swept under the carpet in the usual Nigerian way.

However, all hope is not lost. Going forward, the NJC should discipline judges who undermine the law with reckless ex parte orders. They should be prosecuted and kicked out of the system. The NBA should also purge its ranks of lawyers who allegedly facilitate bribes to judges. It is instructive to note that the war against corruption cannot be won without the maximum support of the judiciary. Therefore, all hands must be on deck to sanitise the bench and restore its lost glory.

• Peter Ovie Akus, New Jersey, USA.

Sir: The United Nations commemorates the World Refugee Day on June 20 annually. The day provides an opportunity to reflect on what is one of the world’s most pressing problems.

According to the United Nations, a refugee is a person forced to flee their country because of violence or persecution, someone who has been forced to flee his or her country because of persecution, war, or violence. A refugee has a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group. Most likely, they cannot return home or are afraid to do so. War and ethnic, tribal and religious violence are leading causes of refugees fleeing their countries. Sixty-nine percent of those displaced across borders come from just five countries: Syria, Venezuela, Afghanistan, South Sudan and Myanmar.

In a world increasingly etched across expanding fault lines, to leave “home” and set up camp in another person’s place with all the horrors and heartbreak it comes with must be a nightmare. But, that is the reality of refugees, who face all manner of challenges in their quest to pick up the pieces of their often shattered lives.

 The 1951 Geneva Convention is the main international instrument of refugee law. The convention clearly spells out who a refugee is and the kind of legal protection, other assistance and social rights he or she should receive from the countries who have signed the document. The convention also defines a refugee’s obligations to host governments and certain categories of people, such as war criminals, who do not qualify for refugee status. The convention was limited to protecting mainly European refugees in the aftermath of World War II, but another document, the 1967 Protocol, expanded the scope of the convention as the problem of displacement spread around the world.

 According to the United Nations, refugees are either migrants, asylum seekers or internally displaced individuals with each subset of refugees providing peculiar challenges.

An internally displaced person, and there are 53.2 million of such individuals around the world, is someone who has been forced to flee their home but has never crossed an international border. This group of people is the largest group the United Nations High Commission for Refugees assists and Colombia, Syria, Democratic Republic of Congo and Yemen are the countries with the highest number of internally displaced individuals.

 A stateless person is someone who is not a citizen of any country. Around the world, about 4.3 million people are stateless or at risk of becoming stateless.

 When people flee their country and seek sanctuary in another country, they apply for asylum – the right to be recognized as a refugee and receive legal protection and material assistance. An asylum seeker must demonstrate that his or her fear of persecution in his or her home country is well-founded. In 2021, there were about 1.7 new asylum claims around the world.

 There is only very little doubt that the unprecedented refugee crisis confronting the world today is very much as a result of the crisis facing people everywhere in the world. Climate change and insecurity continue to cause conflicts in different parts of the world, forcing people to move to places where they feel safer.

On a day when the United Nations celebrates refugees, it is important to remember that the crisis characterised by the unprecedented movement of people across different cities and channels owes a lot to the dangers people face and their desperate desire to escape. On this most important day, it has never been more necessary to emphasize that the world’s response to refugees must be one of compassion and justice. When all the layers are peeled off, it would be seen that the refugee crisis remains a humanitarian crisis with everything it entails.

 Beyond every talk about policy, propriety and proprietary rights, the crisis is about some of the world’s most vulnerable people who want nothing more than some stability. The greatest lesson of a day like this is that refugees deserve to be treated like people and not packages.

• Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com

Sir: The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has orchestrated a resounding triumph by dismantling an insidious drug syndicate responsible for the importation and trafficking of a pernicious synthetic narcotic named Fentanyl. Across the globe, Fentanyl’s notoriety looms ominously, as it remains an infamous accomplice in a surfeit of avoidable fatalities plaguing the realms of illicit drug consumption.

Illicitly manufactured fentanyl, commonly referred to as “street fentanyl,” has become increasingly prevalent in the illegal drug market. It is often mixed with heroin or sold as counterfeit prescription pills, making it difficult for users to discern its presence. These clandestine labs produce the illicit fentanyl, which is then distributed through illegal drug trafficking networks worldwide.

The introduction of fentanyl into Nigeria marks a concerning development in the country’s drug landscape. This lethal substance, previously absent from Nigerian streets, has already claimed numerous lives globally and poses a significant threat to public health within the country.

Statistics from around the world paint a grim picture of fentanyl’s devastating impact. It has emerged as the primary substance responsible for preventable overdose deaths among illicit drug users. Fentanyl-laced drugs are extremely dangerous, as less than two milligrams of fentanyl can result in an overdose or death. The potency of this drug greatly amplifies the risks associated with its use, increasing the likelihood of fatal overdoses. 

Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies, especially the NDLEA, play a crucial role in combating the menace of illicit drugs, including fentanyl. Its recent success in busting a drug syndicate involved in the importation and trafficking of this deadly drug demonstrates its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring public safety.

Given the lethal nature of fentanyl and its increasing prevalence, it is essential to raise awareness among the general public about its risks. Individuals who value their lives and mental health should steer clear of any association with this deadly substance. Education and prevention initiatives should be implemented to inform communities about the dangers of fentanyl and the potential consequences of its use.

Furthermore, healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, and relevant stakeholders should work together to develop strategies to identify and combat the distribution of fentanyl within Nigeria. Enhanced border controls, intelligence sharing, and targeted law enforcement efforts can help curtail the spread of this deadly drug and protect the well-being of Nigerian citizens.

The presence of fentanyl in the Nigerian illicit drug market represents a grave threat to public health and safety. As the NDLEA continues its efforts to dismantle drug syndicates and seize dangerous substances, it is crucial for individuals to be vigilant and avoid any involvement with fentanyl. By staying informed and promoting awareness, we can collectively combat this deadly epidemic and protect the lives and well-being of fellow Nigerians.

• Mahmud Isa Yola, <isamahmud77@gmail.com>

By Revolution Ojie Okosun

In the realm of modern dating, love has been known to inspire people to do extraordinary things. However, when it comes to dating a married person, one must question the extent of these actions. Dating is increasingly accessible in today’s digital age with countless apps connecting individuals based on shared interests and characteristics. Advances in technology also allow for near-perfect matchmaking. But amidst this landscape of options, the question remains: Is it acceptable to date a married man or woman?

When it comes to matters of the heart there are no strict rules dictating whom one can or cannot date. It is the decision of two consenting adults to choose to spend time together, hoping to forge a connection and a possible future. However, numerous moral, social, financial, cultural, religious, and legal considerations come into play when contemplating dating choices. Such consideration is whether it is acceptable or not.

Determining the permissibility of dating a married man typically hinges on societal, moral, and legal perspectives. Different societies, cultures and countries may have varying viewpoints on this matter. However, examining the issue from legal and moral standpoints is crucial, given the influence of laws and ethical principles on our daily lives.

Analyzing the legality of dating a married man or woman proves challenging, as laws differ substantially across countries and within regions. In the United States, each of the 50 states has distinct laws, like South Dakota, New Mexico, Mississippi, Illinois, Hawaii, Oklahoma, and North Carolina, allowing jilted spouses to sue a third party for alienation of affection, others view such cases as criminal conversation. Although these laws aim to protect the marital benefits and companionship rights of spouses, their enforcement varies.

Several countries also have legislation addressing extramarital relationships. In the Philippines, engaging in sexual activity with someone other than one’s spouse may lead to imprisonment. Islamic nations like Afghanistan, Northern Nigeria and Indonesia strictly forbid and punish adultery. Taiwan, amongst others also criminalizes adultery, resulting in prison sentences. However, the actual enforcement of these laws varies significantly.

Morality is another vital aspect to consider when pondering the permissibility of dating a married person. Society’s perception, the fear of being labeled a “homewrecker,” and personal moral values all factor into the decision-making process. There are compelling reasons to avoid dating individuals who are married and committed to a spouse.

Read Also: I’m dating a well-known billionaire, says Bobrisky

Can a married person truly love another person deeply? This question delves into the complexity of human emotions. Love is a subjective experience and its depth varies from person to person. Some married individuals may find it challenging to detach themselves emotionally from their spouses, particularly when children are involved. Emotional baggage and comparisons with ex-partners can add further complications to new relationships. The constant need for validation and the toxicity of constant comparison can hinder the growth and happiness of both parties involved.

While it is possible for a married man to experience love for someone outside marriage, there is no guarantee that such relationships will flourish. The multifaceted dynamics of personal circumstances, emotions, and commitments make each situation unique.

Considering the impact on others is crucial when entering a relationship with a married man. Such actions can cause immense hurt and upheaval for the spouse and children involved. The sudden shift in affection can be distressing for the wife and children, leaving them feeling rejected and heartbroken. Relationships with children may suffer, and the married person may spend lesser time with his family, prioritizing the other woman. The consequences can be long-lasting, potentially irreparable, and profoundly damaging.

It is essential to recognize that dating a married man often leads to unfulfilled promises and disappointment. The hope that he will leave his wife and children to be with his new partner is often a mirage. Marriages experience ups and downs and couples work through their challenges. The problems that led a man to seek external relationships are often resolved, resulting in a return to his family. Where a divorce does occur, the likelihood of the man leaving the new partner for someone else in the future remains a possibility.

Dating a married man often places individuals in a secondary position. While he may claim to love the new partner, his wife and family remain the primary focus. No one should settle for being a rebound or a secondary choice. Everyone deserves to be the first choice in a relationship and to be valued accordingly.

Furthermore, relationships with married individuals often lack the fulfillment and stability that individuals seek. The constant comparison with the spouse or ex-spouse, coupled with the unbreakable bond between the married spouse and their children, could leave the new partner feeling inadequate and unsatisfied and trust issues may arise as both parties are aware of the infidelity and the potential for betrayal.

The decision to date a married person, whether male or female should not be taken lightly. Engaging in such relationships could lead to heartbreak, damaged lives and a profound sense of regret. True dating relationships should be built on trust, respect and genuine connection. Security and comfort should be found in a partner, not a constant fear of being hurt or exposed. Therefore, it is imperative to consider the broader implications and ethical consequences before embarking on a relationship with a married person.

Mr Revolution (Ojie Okosun)
Host and Founder: Revolution Coaching and Counselling

SIR: Nigeria has been ranked as the eighth most polluted country in the world in a report published by Oxford University’s Our World in Data platform and the Daily Mail of London. This should give cause for alarm. In 2021, the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) noted that Nigeria had the highest number of air pollution-related child pneumonia deaths globally. This is largely attributed to air pollution in the household such as cooking over open fires.

There is a need for a review of pollution laws in Nigeria. Our laws are weak and need to be strengthened. For example, the issue of pollution emitted from vehicles. Nigerians see nothing wrong in putting cars that are not roadworthy on the highway. It is particularly worse with articulated vehicles which not only pollute the environment with smoke but also generate noise pollution due to the sound from the engines. In most developed nations of the world, there are laws that make it almost impossible to put a vehicle on the road that is hazardous to other road users and the environment. Even if you find a way to break such laws, when you are caught, you will pay a steep fine and could lose your driving license. In Nigeria, those tasked with ensuring sanity on the highway are only too glad to look away when bribes are offered by offenders.

Read Also: Eradicating plastic pollution

Nigeria needs smoke-free policies. People smoke cigarettes almost everywhere without considering the implications on their health, the health of those around them, and the health of the environment.

There is also the problem of industrial emissions. Though we do not have many problems in this regard because of our low level of industrialisation compared to developed countries of the world, yet it is still a factor which cannot be overlooked especially for residents of urban areas. Governments at all levels, especially the local governments should monitor their environments to ensure that factories and industries are not engaged in one form of pollution or the other.

The habit of dumping garbage, nylons, and water bottles inside drainage systems by the citizenry must be curtailed. This attitude constitutes serious pollution to the environment as such rubbish blocks the drainage leading to flooding and its attendant consequences. Enlightenment of the public and the apprehension and subsequent punishment of offenders will go a long way to minimise this menace.

The health of the citizens is at risk when pollution is allowed to fester. Government should initiate policies that will encourage the use of vehicles with low emissions and cleaner fuels. It should map out sustainable strategies that will help in managing urban waste such as recycling and waste separation.

•Peter Ovie Akus,

New Jersey, USA.