Nigeria, Sept. 23 -- The journey to Warri was smooth. Surprisingly it was not raining and I was delighted running way from the ceaseless rains in Rivers State. As we drove along the lonely East West road, we crossed countless bridges and raced through the historical cities of Ahoada, Mbiama and Kiama. I momentarily recalled the history behind the commencement of the road and the tragic death of the celebrated trumpeter and legendary musician, Cardinal Jim Rex Lawson, who died in 1971 in a tragic accident on Asaba-Benin road. He was travelling to perform in Warri. I arrived Warri early enough that evening to take some rest before what turned out to be a hectic week.

I eagerly looked forward to our trip to Burutu, so I arrived at our point...