The March 2006 Solar Eclipse in Nigeria: Mysteries and Virtues

Abstract

The earliest known reference to eclipse goes back to the 21^st Century B.C. In Nigeria, it dates to 1898; and before 2006, the last Solar Eclipse was in 2001. During, before and after the 2006 celestial phenomenon, radio and television programmes on the eclipses were listened to. Also newspapers, journals, magazines and books on Astronomy and celestial bodies were extensively and generously read. The awesome phenomenon began with the sky getting hazy as early as 09.40 Hours. It was as if there was going to be rain. It was followed by a thick darkness that normally precedes heavy rain. The temperature dropped. It was Partial Eclipse in Ibadan, Abuja, Minna, and Lagos, Abeokuta and substantial parts of the West; and to the middle belt and North West.  At Kastina, Gusau, Kazaure, Isah, Shaki, Tede and Sepeteri, it was Total Eclipse. The region that experienced the total eclipse falls within the same ranges of Longitude and Latitudes. By 10.35 Hours, it was all over; the sky became clear and scorching sun took over. The greatest experience was in Shaki, Oyo State: It was total Eclipse. Foreign tourists, journalists and government functionaries traveled from far and near to watch and experience the eclipse in Nigeria. The occurrence of the solar eclipse marked the end of the population and housing census in Nigeria; Charles Taylor, the Liberian Warlord was arrested and deported to his country; and Governor Gbenga Daniel of Ogun State (Nigeria) marked the Golden Jubilee of his Birthday.

Key Words: Solar Eclipse, Mysteries, Virtues, Nigeria.