The Sun Is Going Away,But Don't Panic...

The Federal Ministry of Science and Technology has alerted Nigerians of an impending solar eclipse in parts of the country on March 29. In a statement, the Ministry said the eclipse would be total in Kwara State and six other states namely: Oyo, Ogun, Niger, Kebbi, Katsina and Zamfara. The statement explained that solar eclipse is a natural occurrence and is not caused by witches or wizards or any other sources. The Kwara State Government has in the meantime called on residents of the State to remain calm and avoid any undue panic during the eclipse, which is expected to last thirty minutes beginning from a quarter after ten in the morning. In an official statement, the government assured that law-enforcement agents have been put on alert to checkmate mischief makers and criminal who might want to use the occasion to cause havoc or disturb the peace of law-abiding citizens. Residents have also been advised to avoid looking at the sky with the bare eyes throughout the phases of the eclipse. Meanwhile, Churches, Mosques, Schools, Town unions and community leaders have been urged to join in the effort to educate their adherents and people on the need to remain calm and peaceful during the eclipse. Solar eclipse occurs when the new moon passes in-between the sum and the earth and the moon blocks the rays of the sun. Nigeria experienced the first total eclipse in 1898 others followed in 1947 and 1959, while Borno state experienced partial eclipse in 2001. The next total eclipse, according to the National Space Research and Development Agency, (NASRIDA) is expected to occur in 2034.