Sunday, September 29, 2013

THE INVERTED PYRAMID

... Written by Tijjani Muhammad Musa

The triangle is an interesting figure. It has 3 sides and 3 angles, with one of the sides forming the base and the remaining 2 sides inclining at an angle to form an enclosed space. And in its 3 dimensional state 4 triangles are inter-connected to produce a pyramid. Since ancient times this uniquely shaped form, with its wide base and pointed top has always had a sense of mystery associated with it.

The pyramids of ancient Egypt are the most famous example of the structure standing today. They were used as symbols of power, technological achievements and tombs of the pharaohs. Also associated with its mystifying effect is the Bermuda Triangle, an undefined region located on western North Atlantic Ocean, where strange happenings about whole cruise ships, aero planes, submarines and other things have been reported rightly or wrongly, mysteriously disappearing into thin air and never found again.

And lately the pyramid is associated with the illuminati, the occult secret society that is membered by the world elites, who are humouredly aiming to create a unified global government under an on-going project tagged the new world order. The pyramid is their symbol, incorporating the all seeing one eye on top of an unfinished pyramid. Anyway, so the story goes.

Well, so much about the intrigues of the triangle, its three dimensional form, the pyramid and the excitement that goes with it. The triangle has always fascinated many and is often used as a good example to depict the power structure in the world government. The way it is shaped from the pointed apex tip, gradually widening as it goes down to the broad base bottom, clearly shows how the rulers, the middle class and the ruled occupy the hierarchical social strata in every society.

So what has a triangle or a pyramid got to do with what we are talking about? Well, before we answer that question, let us first consider this matter from a different perspective. Marriage and Educational Qualifications. There is a strong relationship between man, his level of education and his chances of getting married to any woman of his choice, no matter how highly valued she is in society. The more educated he is, the more the percentage of women that falls within his Triangle of maariage i.e. the range of women he is able to marry in most cases.

A man who can neither read nor write, no matter how rich and influential he might be, has certain limitations when it comes to women he would dare to marry. For, though many women both young and old would accept him as a husband because of his ability to meet their financial needs, there are some he would not dare approach. Not many a man would boldly seek for the hand of a woman who is more educated than him in marriage, no matter how wealthy he might be. And where he is an illiterate as well as lacking in financial means, his chances are considerably restricted as far as his ability to marry all ranges of women is concerned. In most cases, the non-educated female is his only option of no-restriction woman to make a wife.

Now, how about a person who has a primary school leaving certificate and so can read and write? He has more opportunities of possible women to marry as those that are either non-literate or of his educational qualification would gladly accept him for a husband without much ado. And even some secondary school leaving (SSCE or WAEC) students would be within his range without too much hassle.

By the time he is able to complete his post-primary education, his range of possible women to marry broadens. And now, he is a little bit more confident and so can approach candy girls, primary leavers as well as the girls and women who have never been to school before. In fact some young women with National Certificate of Education (NCE) and National Diploma (ND) holders who are not too proud would not mind agreeing to marry him.

Next qualification of acquiring an ND or NCE would further make more women available for him to choose to marry if he so wish. For many girls and young ladies with equal qualification or less i.e. SSCE, primary school leavers and the illiterates would all fall within his range. There are of course degree holders from universities, colleges of education and polytechnics who would not mind marrying such a person, believing it is only a matter of time before he rises up to their level and would gladly encourage him to do so as their husband.

The moment he acquires a degree or its equivalent from any higher institution, he has finally reached a point where most women would be proud to associate with him as a wife. Even some women with Masters degree would accommodate him and fondly refer to him as "My Oga" among their friends and colleagues. So, for other women of lower educational qualification, they sometimes would flaunt it as a thing of pride that their husband is a graduate. Meaning he is not an average level husband, but one of the educated citizens and therefore a person with full potential in their society.

Same goes for the guy who goes for his Masters Degree or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) qualification. Most, if not all women, no matter how high their level of educational, would feel comfortable allowing him to reign in their domain as the head of her family, even if he is not rich. The fact that society sees and regards him as an educational elite is enough for any woman to be proud to associate herself with him. And when they are together, she honors and give him due regards, most especially if he is a responsible husband, father and in constant flow with developments in his field of expertise.

And is there anything to say about Professors? They are only refused as husbands if ever, due to the fact that their level of thinking is way too advanced for a woman to deal with. But, knowing that when it comes to the basics i.e. being human and our needs as men, a woman would comfortably serve her purpose as a wife, a mother and much more to his children and a good friend and companion to him without operating at his supersonic brain wavelength.

Now, back to the answer about the pyramid and a man's education. Have you noticed that the chances of a man marrying a woman of any educational level is like an inverted pyramid, that is a pyramid turned down-side up, sitting on its peak? Dividing the inverted pyramid into 7 equal parts horizontally and making his educational career an arrow pointing from the bottom up, next to the upturned triangle, one will discover the above scenario playing itself out! The lowest division will show a small part of the triangle in focus, depicting the number of women available for him to marry. The next section gives him more and the next adding more and more to his opportunities until, virtually most women will fall within the triangle.

That is essentially the reality one comes to term with, at least as far as getting married for men based on educational qualification is concerned.

And for women, the exact opposite is the case. Played out along the above explanation, the pyramid sits back on its base. Divided into same equal parts on the horizontal level, from the bottom upward, a woman has more men able to marry her, the less educated she is. If she is a non-literate female, from the professor downwards to the ordinary village folk like her, all can boldly approach her for marriage.

When she becomes a primary school certificate holder, the illiterate men in society will steer clear of her as far as taking her for a wife is concern. Only those who have equal qualification or higher would be bold enough to make that move. If she finishes her secondary education, most guys with primary leaving certificate would feel intimidated by her educational level. As an NCE or ND Certificate holder, post-primary school certificate students dare not go seeking her hand in marriage. By the time she graduates from the university, polytechnic or college of education, she will see even less men coming forth to sincerely want her for a wife. Live examples abound to cite as references in all the stages above.

Getting a Masters degree would require a serious compromise on her part to be able to find a husband of her taste. Besides, if she is still unmarried by then, age is definitely not on her side as all her youthfulness and beauty would have been eroded by time while pursuing her education. If she still strives on to get a PhD, it is rare for anyone to hear about her marriage. In most cases, it is not made a public affair, nor is it even properly or fully celebrated. Her level of maturity and looks would make it a huge joke to gather and celebrate the wedding with the normal fun-filled, merry-making activities that are the hallmarks of marriage celebrations like receptions, traditional music and dances, road-block "owambes" and so on, at any popular events venue. Even those who will attend, would usually do so out of support and courtesy, but it is never witnessed with pomp and grand.

And for a female professor and unmarried, well, it is a rarity for any to approach her for marriage and when any does, it is conducted as a secret affair with very minimum witnesses. But definitely, no musical extravaganza or colorful expenses are incurred. It is a very quite, very off-the-records affair. Many would stumble upon the fact that she is now married when they see an old man constantly in her company and would curiously be compelled to silently ask "Who's that man with the Prof.?" And the answer would equally and silently be told in a whisper "He is her husband. She got married to him about 3 months ago" Then the questioner would go "Shuo! No wonder! Eayaah... At least she don marry before she kpeme!" and they would both smile and walk off.

So, for a woman the pyramid sits on its base, while for the man it sits precariously on its top, inverted. Thus the more educated either of them gets, the more the chances of becoming a groom for the man to the most beautiful, rich and very influential background, with age being just a number. And on the other hand, the less the opportunities for the woman of becoming a bride to someone of her choice, regardless of all other factors. But, of course there are exceptions, which are rarities.

Thus for men, strive for better qualifications and you will end up having the best of the world most beautiful females. For women, equally strive for sound education, but do not wait till it is too late. Grab one of those golden opportunities that comes along the way of most young women and marry as you rise in your educational career. You can then go on to acquire the highest educational qualifications with your husband by your side or even under lock and key. Just a simple advice.

Remember, the nicest thing about a piece of advice is; If you find it agreeable and acceptable, you are free to take and use it. If on the other hand, you find it distasteful and therefore unacceptable, just ignore and forget about it. Time will vindicate it.

Best of luck to all.

© 2013 Tijjani M. M.
All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

THE GOVERNOR, THE KING AND I

.... Written by Tijjani Muhammad Musa

We were in a mix, a combined delegations that included His Excellency The Executive Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso with some of his aides present and His Royal Highness Alhaji Dr. Ado Bayero, also in the midst of his royal supports. How I happened to be in that entourage, only God Knows. But there I was.

Kwankwaso was in his now usual characteristic white gown with the symbolic red cap that has gradually assumed the signature of his government, as most loyalists and supporters of his ideological Kwankwasiya movement were fond of wearing. His entourage made up of about 5 people probably included his PA, 2 or 3 security personnel and one or two accompanying commissioners who however were in mufti, looking quite casual. None other was wearing the red cap except His Excellency. RMK was surrounded by his hosts, where one was busy explainingg something important to him as he smiled and chipped in his usual mood lifting jokes. He looked happy, and his mood seemed infectious for almost all around him were all genuinely smiling too.

SanKano was in a simple casual dark ashe-brown regal kaftan, with some exquisit embroidery works on the neck, shoulders, arms, wrists, pockets and hems of the long flowy, yet very comfortable wear. Well, it fitted him so well and he looked calm and at ease in it. He was wearing a cap, similarly expressed to match the kaftan with no turban. His well trimmed white moustache, beard and side burns under which was his smooth, glowy skin would make any realise that this man was royal in all ramifications. His eyes were white, glinty and relaxed. He looked so healthy, sixtish and robust. Clean, hale and refreshed with no sign of any distress or sickness that he was reported to have travelled abroad to address about him. His royal subjects clearly knew when to keep their distance as they stood about 3-5 feet away, giving him room to be himself, but looking ready to pounce on a disturbance, whether physical or virtual that could make Mai Gado da Masu react. Not a dust dare to land with that 5 feet allowance.

Off that undemacated radius, behind one of the royal aides I stood observing the two most porwerful men of Kano. One choosen by the people through a political mandate was about 12 feet away, drenching in foreign state protocols and the other traditionally instituted and revered by the same citizens of the most populace state in the most populous black nation in the world, Nigeria was 6 feet away surrounded by care in perpetuity. The Emir held his left wrist in his right hand and a rolex watch could be seen dangling, peeking out at an angle from that beautiful golden embroidered kaftan wrist. One or two persons from the host community were engaging him in an informal chit-chat and his smile and soft laughter could barely be heard from where I stood.

Suddenly, all attentions were shifted in the direction of His Excellency. He was about to test an advance technological device which could allow its expert user fire at a targeted illness and retrive the ammunition intact leaving no tell-tale of the treatment. He took careful aim under the guidance of one of the inventors and let go a single shot into the air, only for the laser like beam to be frozen mid-air and then reverse its part to the source. It was so engaging, none realised that all protocols have been dropped, forgotten, His Royal Highness leaned to whisper in my left ear "4.2 knots" he said looking into my eyes with a warm pleased smile. There was applause all over the place. Clearly, it has been a successful test as Kwankwaso turned to get off his firing position with a beam that showed all his white set of teeth.

As the Governor was being assisted off the platform and led off by the hosts, explaining further other aspects of the engagements, his Royal Highness seemed to have taken a likeness of me and refused his aides and guards from recreating the 5 feet distance between us. He dismissed them all and together with I, we took a walk in a direction different from where the rest of the delegations headed. Walking on the sidewalk and talking, many of the residents seemed to realise from afar how important his Majesty was as they respond to a need to avoid a virtual shield surrounding him and his accomodation of I in it. They just walk in a curve off us while staring at his radiant face as he talked to me oblivious of their presence. I gladly did the listening as I should.

Soon we arrived at a corner and he held my wrist to stop me from proceeding further. Turning to look back in the direction we came, making sure none of his royal guards or aides were following us, he gestured that we take the turn. He seemed to know where he was going, as he led us to a very amazing setting of traditional extraction that looked like a scene from the exotic Arabian Night story. There were fountains and waterfalls and pools and ponds all over the places. Sitting circular open to the heaven arrangements of various kinds, tables, mats, soft cushions and pillows etc punctuating the water displays and very colorful atmosphere. I expected to hear some music, but nothing. Well, except for the sound of water. From the various water drops, some mersmerizing sound of sort complimented the scenerio. It was the music of the place.

His Royal Highness chosed one of carpeted, soft cushioned and pillowed sitting arrangements in the midst of the water ponds with multiple colors lighting the inside of the ponds, creating a serene feel. He sat cross-legged as easily as a most agile athlete. I followed suit and was looking around the water demarcations that one could easily reach out and touch if so desired. Beautiful wAllaah.

Soon a beautiful young woman came forth, fully veiled in light brown shimmering material, maintaining the now almost permanent royal auratic distance, stopped at the adjoining islandic circular sitting arrangement and said in the most softest of voices, full of respect and awe "Maraba da Mai Martaba", her face down to the rare quality flooring avoiding eyes contact. I? Completely forgotten.

He rarely spoke to any directly, but because there were no royal couriers to convey his instructions and I was a total novice to his wish, asked "Me ku ke da shi?" in the most humblest of expression. Probably afraid of further intimidating the poor soul sinking into the floor with humility. I thought he was not audible enough, but to my surprise the woman answered him back "Mu na da duk abinda ka ke so." He smiled at himself and said "Ku na da abinda da za mu sha...?" and she promptly replied "Dukkan abinda ka ke so, Allaah Ya ja zamaninka." He then continued without throwing a single royal look in my direction "Toh, ku kawo abinda ya kamata" She said as she gaitfully rose from her squatting position "Yanzu kuwa, Ya Mai Gado da Masu" and she disappeared just like she appreared.

Unexpectedly there manifested from between us twain a wide mouthed bowl with precious stones immersed in some clear, slightly creamy liquid oozing from them. There were no cups and so we did not drink of it. Most likely it seemed part of the interior decoration. But it sure did look inviting, for taking a sip of it kept coming up in my mind.

Suddenly, I heard soft Quranic recitations coming from the soronous voice of Ghamidi as he begins to read Surah Nisa', the fourth chapter of the holy book. It then dawn on me that dawn has broken. It was the wake up call of my phone alarm clock set to wake me up for Fajr Salat at 4:45am.

It was all a dream. Ya Subhanallaah! What a dream!

(c)(r) Tijjani M. M. 26092013@6:17:45am All Rights Reserved