In separate interviews with the Research Directorate, a political science professor at the University of Northern Iowa, who specializes in Nigerian politics, and the NADECO representative in Canada, both stated that Dr. Tai Solarin was one of the most well-respected Nigerian human rights activists, who fought for justice and universal primary and secondary education in Nigeria (4, 6 Aug.1998). The political science professor further stated that Dr. Solarin was based in Ogun State in Nigeria, and that he had set up a school which is now run by his British-born wife Sheila (ibid). Both persons emphasized that Dr. Solarin was not a member of any political party though a strong critic of Nigerian governments. Apparently, he died of natural causes, "a day after his involvement in a protest in Ikeja, near Lagos." His work is carried on by his wife Sheila who still speaks out on "public good-causes," added the NADECO representative. The sources, however, are not certain as to the exact year and date of Dr. Solarin's death.

This Response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the Research Directorate within time constraints. This Response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum. Please see below the list of additional sources consulted in researching this Information Request.

Political Science professor, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls. 4 August 1994. Telephone interview.

NADECO, Canada representative. Toronto. 6 August 1994. Telephone interview.

Africa Research Bulletin: Political, Social and Cultural Series. July - December 1993. Vol. 30. Nos. 7-12.

_____. 1994. Vol. 31. Nos. 1-12.

Electronic sources: IRB Databases, LEXIS/NEXIS, Internet, World News Connection (WNC).