₦airaland Forum

THE ATUKWEI OKAI AFRICAN PRIZE FOR POETRY


ANNOUNCEMENT AND CALL FOR ENTRIES


The Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) hereby announces The Atukwei Okai African Prize for Poetry in honor of its pioneer Secretary General, Prof Atukwei Okai ( March 15 1941 to July 13 2018).

The Prize which will be for poetry collections published by individual authors between 2018 to 2021 will be in 5 categories of Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili and Portuguese.

Entries which are open to African Writers at home and in the diaspora must be in digital form and should be sent by email to pawahouse@gmail.com.

Entries will be judged by individual Judges in each category of Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili and Portuguese.

Prizes of $2,000 per category will be awarded on March 15 2022, the birthday of Prof Atukwei Okai.

Deadline for Submissions is October 31 2021.

Dr Wale Okediran
PAWA Secretary General

ANA CONGRATULATES NOBEL LAUREATE WOLE SOYINKA ON HIS 87TH BIRTHDAY

Camillus Ukah, President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated Prof. Wole Soyinka, a writer of global stature and the first African ever to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature as he attains the age of 87.
This was contained in a statement issued by the National PRO South, Wole Adedoyin in Ilesa on Tuesday.
According to the release “Nigeria is proud to have a talented and dedicated writer such as Wole Soyinka. He has contributed immensely to our country. He is an extremely special writer whom we hold high in ANA.
Soyinka has been a sturdy critic of successive Nigerian governments. He has criticized all forms of misuse of power in Nigeria by the incumbent government. We wish Prof. Wole Soyinka all the best and continued good health.
Wole Soyinka has been recognized worldwide and has won many international awards, including Anisfield-Wolf Book Award, Nobel Prize for Literature, Agip Prize for Literature, Benson Medal from Royal Society of Literature, International Humanist Award, Special Prize of the Europe Theatre Prize and many honorary degrees from distinguished universities across the globe. ANA under the leadership of Camillus Ukah congratulates the laureate on this special occasion.”
ANA finally wished Prof. Wole Soyinka a happy 87th birthday celebration and prayed that God almighty will grant him many more years of good health and strength to see the Nigeria of his dream.
Wole Soyinka was born on 13 July 1934 at Abeokuta, near Ibadan in western Nigeria. After preparatory university studies in 1954 at Government College in Ibadan, he continued at the University of Leeds, where, later, in 1973, he took his doctorate. During the six years spent in England, he was a dramaturgist at the Royal Court Theatre in London 1958-1959. In 1960, he was awarded a Rockefeller bursary and returned to Nigeria to study African drama. At the same time, he taught drama and literature at various universities in Ibadan, Lagos, and Ife, where, since 1975, he has been professor of comparative literature. In 1960, he founded the theatre group, “The 1960 Masks” and in 1964, the “Orisun Theatre Company”, in which he has produced his own plays and taken part as actor. He has periodically been visiting professor at the universities of Cambridge, Sheffield, and Yale.
During the civil war in Nigeria, Soyinka appealed in an article for cease-fire. For this he was arrested in 1967, accused of conspiring with the Biafra rebels, and was held as a political prisoner for 22 months until 1969. Soyinka has published about 20 works: drama, novels and poetry. He writes in English and his literary language is marked by great scope and richness of words.
As dramatist, Soyinka has been influenced by, among others, the Irish writer, J.M. Synge, but links up with the traditional popular African theatre with its combination of dance, music, and action. He bases his writing on the mythology of his own tribe-the Yoruba-with Ogun, the god of iron and war, at the centre. He wrote his first plays during his time in London, The Swamp Dwellers and The Lion and the Jewel (a light comedy), which were performed at Ibadan in 1958 and 1959 and were published in 1963. Later, satirical comedies are The Trial of Brother Jero (performed in 1960, publ. 1963) with its sequel, Jero’s Metamorphosis (performed 1974, publ. 1973), A Dance of the Forests (performed 1960, publ.1963), Kongi’s Harvest (performed 1965, publ. 1967) and Madmen and Specialists (performed 1970, publ. 1971). Among Soyinka’s serious philosophic plays are (apart from “The Swamp Dwellers“) The Strong Breed (performed 1966, publ. 1963), The Road ( 1965) and Death and the King’s Horseman (performed 1976, publ. 1975). In The Bacchae of Euripides (1973), he has rewritten the Bacchae for the African stage and in Opera Wonyosi (performed 1977, publ. 1981), bases himself on John Gay’s Beggar’s Opera and Brecht’s The Threepenny Opera. Soyinka’s latest dramatic works are A Play of Giants (1984) and Requiem for a Futurologist (1985).
Soyinka has written three novels, The Interpreters (1965), narratively, a complicated work which has been compared to Joyce’s and Faulkner’s, in which six Nigerian intellectuals discuss and interpret their African experiences. Season of Anomy (1973) which is based on the writer’s thoughts during his imprisonment and confronts the Orpheus and Euridice myth with the mythology of the Yoruba and Chronicles of the Happiest People on Earth (2020), a fictional meditation on power and greed—at once a literary hoot, a whodunit, and a scathing indictment of political and social corruption. Purely autobiographical are The Man Died: Prison Notes (1972) and the account of his childhood, Aké ( 1981), in which the parents’ warmth and interest in their son are prominent. Literary essays are collected in, among others, Myth, Literature and the African World (1975).
Soyinka’s poems, which show a close connection to his plays, are collected in Idanre, and Other Poems (1967), Poems from Prison (1969), A Shuttle in the Crypt (1972) the long poem Ogun Abibiman (1976) and Mandela’s Earth and Other Poems (1988).

AYOOLUWA, ADEKUNLE AND FADAIRO TO HEADLINE OSOGBO BOOK CLUB JULY READING
Osogbo Book Club (OBC) has set aside 24th day of July, 2021 to host three Osogbo based writers, Ayooluwa Olasupo (Imisi), Babatude Adekunle and Fadairo Tesleem, in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State.
A statement issued by both the Coordinator and Secretary of the club, Grace Godwin and Afeez Olagunju said the event would take place at the T.M. Aluko House (ANA Osun State Secretariat) Unique Success Academy Annex, Behind WAEC Office, 2 Uncle K Street, Akinlade, Alekuwodo, Osogbo by 12PM prompt.
Ayooluwa Olasupo (Imisi) is a Nigerian poet/writer and medical doctor who writes from Osogbo, Osun State. Her works have appeared in Christian Literary Hub's Anthology, Afritondo, The Shallow Tales Review Literary Magazine, Eboquills, Shuzia and elsewhere.
She's the Editor-in-chief of Scent and Sceptre Teen Magazine and also the curator/founder of Star and Nectar Literary Magazine; a content creator who has been a co-editor to a number of magazines and other publications, she was top 6 in the Pregnant Poems contest 2020 and was nominated on two consecutive occasions as a contributory writer to the Nigerian Medical Students Association. Her writing often conveys message of hope, courage and healing.
When she's not writing, reading or attending to her medical passion, she enjoys listening to and making music, speaking, cooking and telling children in the neighbourhood twilight tales.
The second writer, Babatunde Abdulhakim Adekunle is a student of university of Ibadan. He is studying Education and English. Abdulhakim is a content creator, Motivational writer and poet. He writes for different blogs among which is Cornelius blog and international Writers among others. He belongs to different writers' organizations and has received different certificates on creative writing within and outside Nigeria.
The third writer, Fadairo Tesleem, also known by his social media handles as Tasleem Abu Haneefa. He is a Poet, critic and an Admin of a popular poetry group on whatsapp. Tasleem Abu Haneefa has published in different online journals and literary magazines. He is currently a student of University of Ilorin where he organizes poetry readings every Wednesdays.
The forthcoming book reading event promises to be an avenue of book and poetry reading, Spoken words, book sales and signing, networking with fellow book readers and writers across the nooks and crannies of Osun State, the statement added.
Upcoming writers who have works in poetry, short stories and novels can also attend to read their works to fellow writers and readers. Membership forms and Certificate of Membership will be made available free of charge to the first timers.
Osogbo Book Club is an initiative of Society of Young Nigerian Writers. It was established by the Society in order to contribute its own quota towards the growth and development of Reading Culture in Osun State. Osogbo Book Club consists of group of people who get together, periodically meet to discuss the book they have read, and to exchange such books. The members of the club encourage each other, and learn to read with a critical awareness, articulating their opinions on a particular book with the others. Certain types of books not available or read receive attention through the book club.
To join the reading, please call: 08027854496, 08139582323, 08137212926

EKITI BOOK CLUB UNVEILS JIDE BADMUS AS EPF GUEST POET

Ekiti Book Club, the organizer of Ekiti Poetry Festival has unveiled Jide Badmus as Guest Poet for the forthcoming Poetry Festival scheduled to take place on the 16th of July 2021 at the New Pavilion, Phase 1, FUOYE, Oye-Ekiti by 10am.
With the Festival Theme tagged: "Shadows on a Hill". The event is free and open to the public.
Jide Badmus is an engineer, a poet inspired by beauty and destruction; he believes that things in ruins were once beautiful.
Jide is the author of There is a Storm in my Head; Scripture; Paper Planes in the Rain (co-authored with Pamilerin Jacob) and Paradox of Little Fires.
Badmus has curated and edited several anthologies such as Vowels Under Duress; Coffee; Today, I Choose Joy; and How to Fall in Love.
He is the founder of INKspiredNG, a literary platform, Poetry Editor for Con-scio Magazine, and sits on the board of advisors for Libretto Magazine.
He writes from Lagos, Nigeria.
EKPOFEST will be chaired by Dr. Harry Olufunwa, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of English and literary Studies.

ANA CONGRATULATES ANAELE IHUOMA, CHUKWUDI EZE AND OBINNA UDENWE ON BEING SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2021 NIGERIA PRIZE FOR LITERATURE

By Wole Adedoyin (ANA PRO South)

Camillus Ukah, ANA President has congratulated the trio of Anaele Ihuoma from ANA Rivers Chukwudi Eze from ANA Abuja and Obinna Udenwe from ANA Ebonyi on being shortlisted for the 2021 Nigeria Prize for Literature and for making ANA proud.
Recently, 2021 Nigeria Prize for Literature longlist was presented by the Chairman, Panel of Judges for this year’s prize, Professor Toyin Jegede, who is also a professor of Literature in English at the University of Ibadan. Three names of ANA members in persons of Anaele Ihuoma Chukwudi Eze and Obinna Udenwe also found themselves on the list.
"Over the past few years there has been a concerted efforts by ANA under the leadership of Camillus Ukah to raise the profile of its members and we are confident that the success of the duo of Anaele Ihuoma from ANA Rivers, Chukwudi Eze from ANA Abuja and Obinna Udenwe from ANA Ebonyi will not only add to this, but might just be the inspiration someone needs to start writing today. We want to congratulate Anaele Ihuoma, Chukwudi Eze and Obinna Udenwe on their outstanding achievements, we are proud of them."
The trio of Anaele Ihuoma, Chukwudi Eze and Obinna Udenwa are also currently active in the activities of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) at both the national level and at their various chapters. Anaele Ihuoma is the immediate past National Auditor of ANA. Architect Chukwudi Eze is a strong member of ANA Abuja while Obinna Udenwe is a staunch member of ANA Ebonyi and a Committee member of ANA/AE-FUNAI International Conference and Creative Workshops. Udenwe served as the Resource Person/Coordinator of the Short Story Writing Workshop at the just concluded 2021 ANA/AE-FUNAI International Conference held at the Rasheed Abubakar Auditorium, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State, between July 1 and 4, 2021 with the theme: RE-IMAGINING BELONGINESS IN 21ST CENTURY AFRICA.
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Camillus Ukah, ANA President finally described their selection as appropriate reward for their unrelenting efforts which will also serve as a source of encouragement for other ANA Members.

ABOUT ANAELE IHUOMA
Anaele Ihuoma has worked as a journalist, banker and teacher. His published poetry books include: Tongues of Triumph (2003), Song of the Threshing Floor (2006) and Song of the Swallow (2007). A fourth, Whispers of Angels, is currently published online while his play One Day with the Hounds came out early 2018. His short story collection The Sea Route to Señorita’s Heart is yet to be published. His poems and short stories have appeared in several publications including Fireflies, The Guardian, Thisday, Ebedi Review, Ana Review, Rivers of Treasure, The Mariner as well as Onomonresua, a tribute to mothers and motherhood.
Ihuoma has been a guest on “Bound Copies”, a literary programme of Garden City Radio, Port Harcourt, Nigeria, and “Our Guest” on Radio Verité, Boston, Ma., USA, amongst others. His literary credits include: The Sparrow Poetry Prize in Nigeria, 2009; ANA Bayelsa Centenary Poetry Prize, 2014 and Goethe Institut Literary Prize, 2014.
Ihuoma has a Post-Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) and M.A (Literature in English) both from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He currently teaches at the National Teachers Institute, Port Harcourt.
ABOUT CHUKWUDI EZE
Architect Chukwudi Eze graduated with triple-honours and a Phi-Beta-Kappa from Vassar College received the William Kinne Award during his master’s degree from Columbia University, New York and studied Creative Writing at the University of Toronto. He designed Obasanjo Presidential Library and was a design team member of the Enyimba City, Abia State. He is a member of Association of Nigerian Authors, the Canadian Authors Association and sits on the Advisory Board of Abuja Library Society. He has written five books; the most recent of which, The Return of Half-Something, was shortlisted for the 2018 ANA Literature Prize.

ABOUT OBINNA UDENWE
Obinna Udenwe is the award winning author of the conspiracy thriller, Satans & Shaitans, and the controversial church-erotica, Holy Sex.
Obinna has received trainings from the British Council, Nigeria and the US National Endowment for Democracy, after which he founded and managed a youth development initiative, Ugreen Foundation from 2007 to 2014, training young people on leadership, governance and democracy, and won the Nigerian National Top12 Awards in 2009, the African International Achievers Awards 2012, the State Literary Icon Award 2014 from the Ebonyi State Government and the ANA Prize for Prose Fiction 2015. In 2012 and 2013, Obinna Udenwe organized and facilitated the Youth Creativity Class program that trained over 50 young people on creative writing, leadership and public speaking, after which he collated and edited the anthology Voices From My Clan. He has also initiated, financed and facilitated numerous leadership development programs for young people of his state of Ebonyi.
In 2016 he won the inaugural edition of the South African award; The Short Story is Dead Prize. For three years he has edited the Ebedi Review – an in-house magazine of the Ebedi International Writers Residency, Nigeria. He is the Founding Editor for Essays/Reviews.
SHORT REVIEW OF IMMINENT RIVER
By Oladayo Jonathan , September 9, 2019
Imminent River by Anaele Ihuoma; Prima – Narrative Landscape Press, Lagos, Nigeria; 2018; 347pp
There is the compelling need for me to go back to the publishing of Alex Haley’s Roots in 1976 to find a book that bears comparison to Anaele Ihuoma’s debut novel Imminent River. Just as after hearing grandma’s tales, Haley traces his roots back to the adolescent Kunta Kinte who was kidnapped into slavery to America from West Africa in the 18th century, Anaele Ihuoma regales us with the intriguing story that goes way back to early 19th century West Africa. The soul of the tale is the old matriarch Daa-Mbiiway, the bearer of the formula to prolong life.
Ihuoma stresses from the beginning that Imminent River takes its roots from fact as he writes in the author’s note: “This story may be fiction, but it is built on, rather than merely imitating, real life. The grand matriarch of the epic, Daa-Mbiiway, is unashamedly a great maternal aunt of mine, by the same name although spelt (if it ever was), Daa Mbiwe. One of my most exhilarating exhibitions as a little boy growing up in Eziudo community, my maternal home, was when I was asked to go to Itu, now HQ of Ezinihitte LGA, Imo State, Nigeria, by my maternal grandmother, Daa Nnennia Iwe, nee Abii, to go visit Daa Mbiwe.”
It is a mark of Anaele’s mastery that Daa-Mbiiway who uncannily disappears at the beginning of the novel curiously ends up holding the entire tale together through the spell of the much-coveted longevity recipe.
The span of the novel, divided into three parts, can be appreciated thus – Part One: The Progenitors (West Africa. Early 19th Century); Part Two: Prodigious Leap of Limbs (West Africa. 19th Century to Early 20th Century); Part Three: Blindfolds and Iron Fists – The Rocky Road to the Imminent River (Southern Nigeria: 20th Century). There is a mini-section in Part One bearing one chapter (14) entitled “Mid-19th Century. Trans-Atlantic to New England).
The book ends with “Epilogue: Ajaelu Tastes the Hiatus Music” where we read: “Urem Okakuko sat, pensive, in front of the Centenary Hall, Ake, Abeokuta, bathed in her own tears. Inside the Hall, Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong were performing Satchmo’s ‘Back O Town’ and Armstrong himself, the lead vocalist, was rhapsodising.” Further down the epilogue, Ihuoma writes: “It was 13 July 1934. Duke Ellington had released his hit track ‘Symphony in Black” in New York. That same day, not far from the Centenary Hall, a baby was born to the family of Pa Ayodele Soyinka in nearby Isara, Abeokuta.”
Let’s call that baby Wole Soyinka, the future Nobel Laureate in Literature who was Ihuoma’s Head of Department at the then University of Ife from 1978 to 1982.
Ihuoma’s blend of fiction, fact and fantasy in Imminent River intervolves the longevity progenitor Daa Mbiiway and her husband Okpuzu, the feuding plutocrats Jesse an Opuddah, the matriarch’s hostile sons Chimenam and Dioti-Ojioho, the suitable boy Ezemba and the village belle Agbonma whom Ezemba loves madly, Edidion whom Daa-Mbiiway almost adopted as a granddaughter, the treacherous and cultic High Chief Nnanyereugo Chris Ojionu, Urem Okakuko the storyteller, Wopara etc.
The quest for certitude is not deterred by a letter that informs: “I have just realised that there is no such thing as the Longevity Formula. Or rather that the documents we have, with figures purporting to point us to Eldorado, is nothing but an attempt to send us on a wild goose chase.” Cracking the Nsibidi code of the Longevity Formula remains a life-affirming mission.
Disunity in the land makes the people susceptible to conquest and slavery. Conspiracy rules the roost. The comeuppance of evil comes translated in the news headline: “Strange River swallows HCO’s Ojionu Cottage.” It is a brave new world in which “Youths Demand jail for Eagloma cultists”, by listing “the alleged crimes of the fraternity to include, murder, unhealthy sexual practices, the so-called ‘Eagloma double’, political blackmail, archaic cultural practices such as bride battering and perversion of justice.”
Ihuoma’s Imminent River strikes a chord with Ayi Kwei Armah’s 1978 novel The Healers in which the protagonist Densu envisions African unity, just as the hero Ezemba gets the ultimate introduction from David thusly: “Sir, my name is David. I’m the son of Jesse, the healer from the Healing Home. We were rescued from the sea of malevolence. We are here to help the just retool.”
Ihuoma’s reputation as a poet is well-established. He has equally done commendable work as a playwright. His novel Imminent River is ample evidence of his roundedness in all the genres. His power of description can be enchanting, as note: “Even though he liked to reassure himself that it was Agbonma’s character, rather than her looks, that held his attention, he would be hard-pressed convincing God in heaven that her physical beauty had no part in it.
She had such lush supply of eyelashes and brows. Her deep, brown eyes themselves appeared to be set deeper from the rest of her face. This tended to project her face outwards, giving her something of a permanent smile and an inviting visage. You would think Leonardo Da Vinci had wanted to capture her in that immortal brushwork but could not and had to settle for the Mona Lisa instead.”
However, there is an error in the blurb of Imminent River which the publishers will need to correct in the next edition where “will take advantage off” is printed instead of “will take advantage of.”
Anaele Ihuoma is unafraid to tackle the big themes. With Imminent River, he is poised to crack the canon.
https://www.premiumtimesng.com/entertainment/artsbooks/351371-book-review-imminent-river-a-transcontinental-saga.html
THE RETURN OF HALF-SOMETHING
by Chukwudi Eze
A New Yorker of mixed heritage believes his destiny lies in his African ancestral homeland in this dramatic novel.
In 1993, 17-year-old Emmanuel’s father, Uchechi, tells him that his destiny awaits him in the African kingdom of Umuati. Uchechi believes his American son will somehow need to help Umuati battle injustice and oppression and that failure to do so will curse Emmanuel. A decade later, Emmanuel resides in Manhattan with a Ph.D. from Columbia Law School but still hasn’t visited Umuati. He falls for Rebecca Levitt, who’s vice president at her father Reuben’s brokerage firm, Peak Management Group. Emmanuel even takes a job at the firm to get close to Rebecca. But Reuben disapproves of their inevitable romance, primarily because Emmanuel, who’s biracial, isn’t Jewish like the Levitts. Emmanuel fights for the chance to marry Rebecca and, soon after, finds a way he can assist Umuati. An oil-field explosion there has resulted in fatalities and a devastating oil spill. Emmanuel calls Umuati’s regent and offers, pro bono, to file a lawsuit against the company responsible, Sooli Oil. This entails finally traveling to Umuati, where Emmanuel surprisingly faces some resistance. After the evidence he has gathered inexplicably vanishes, Emmanuel and others learn there may be a spy working for Sooli, which ultimately leads to murder and a kidnapping. But it’s the opportunity to move to Umuati that presents Emmanuel with his greatest challenge, as Rebecca’s refusal to leave her U.S. home may threaten their prospective future together. Emmanuel’s convincing motivations propel Eze’s (Leadership Stories of Mother Hen, 2012, etc.) engrossing, character-driven story. For example, destiny plays a large role in the protagonist’s decisions, be it pursuing Rebecca or coming to the aid of Umuati. This stems from Uchechi’s forecasting his son’s fate and possible curse; just days later, Emmanuel tragically lost both parents in a storm-related boating accident. Similarly, he has thrived academically in spite of the discrimination he faced from school bullies calling him half-breed or “merboy” (half fish, half boy). Emmanuel later overcomes adversaries in Umuati who see him as an outcast. He has an Umuati name, Nkemefuna, and knows the language but is unfamiliar with the culture. The first third of the novel centers on Emmanuel’s growing relationship with Rebecca. It’s a rewarding subplot, though some of his behavior is more obsessive than romantic. For instance, when she seems reluctant to further the relationship, Emmanuel asks his cousin Anna to befriend Rebecca. He’s certain that the friendship will help him win Rebecca. Regardless, his sweet words to her are often charming: “If I ever live this life again, let it always be with you, my love.” The plot shift to the lawsuit adds tension and suspense. Individuals opposing the suit put Emmanuel in unmistakable peril, but the courtroom scenes are intense as well, as the protagonist fights a multibillion-dollar company. Female characters are strong, particularly Anna, who, in a flashback, doesn’t hesitate to warn a sexist, racist biker against calling her a “bitch.”
A protagonist of conviction braves discrimination and a potentially dangerous corporation.
https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/chukwudi-eze/the-return-of-half-something/
SHORT REVIEW OF COLOURS OF HATRED
Genre Fiction.
Blurb “On her deathbed, Leona seeks forgiveness by confessional. Dastardly as the sin is, it is an act of love, loyalty, disobedience, and perceived fairness. How did she get here, where she, an internationally renowned model, is forced to kill her father-in-law to avenge her mother’s death? Set against a background of real events, Colours of Hatred is a complex web of plots detailing a woman’s journey from childhood through the fire and anvil of love, loss, betrayal, lust, and duty.”
Dialogue Written in English with smatterings of Igbo.
Themes Love, Revenge, War and Betrayal.
Editing Some errors.
Plot Leona is the only child of a Nigerian man, James and a Sudanese woman, Mary living in Sudan. Her idyllic childhood is shattered by the actions of rebels which forces her family to flee to Nigeria to escape death. In Nigeria, her parents gradually become strangers living together and James goes on to marry two other wives who bear him four sons. Following the death of Mary, Leona is convinced by James to revenge Mary’s death but things go awry afterwards.
Today’s review is a day later than scheduled and is a solo review by Lady B.
What worked? The Colours of Hatred is a fictional story set against a background of real events in Sudan and Nigeria. It’s narrated in the first person by the protagonist, Leona. The story unfolds from her perspective as a child growing up in Sudan and later, Nigeria where her family flees to to escape death.
It explores the political history of both countries and so, you learn about the civil war in Sudan, the culture and socio-economic issues in the country as well as the similarities between Sudan and Nigeria. As someone who didn’t know that much about Sudan, I enjoyed reading about their way of life and I liked the fact that though there was ongoing civil unrest/war in Sudan, the book focused on how it affected the day-to-day lives of the people and not the fighting itself.
I also liked the twist at the end though it would have read better had it been followed to a logical conclusion.
What didn’t work? Sadly, this book didn’t work for me. I found the dialogue stilted and the narration was confusing as it went back and forth between the past and the present in a disjointed manner.
I found it difficult to connect with any of the characters. They didn’t feel real to me. The motivations of their actions were weird and not relatable.
The story didn’t ring true and there were gaps in the story for example, I wanted to know how Leona’s family escaped the rebels in Sudan. I also wanted to know how Agnes was able to get to Leona.
Finally, I thought the end was unsatisfactory. Obinna tried to offer an explanation for the storyline leading to the end but it just ended up introducing things which I couldn’t reconcile with the body of the story.
Number of pages 335.
Publisher Parresia Publishers Ltd.
Damage $9.35 on Amazon Kindle.
Rating 5.5/10.
Colours of Hatred is available on Amazon.
Have you read Colours of Hatred? Please share your thoughts in the comments section.
https://literaryeverything.com/2020/07/07/colours-of-hatred-by-obinna-udenwe/

OKEDIRAN, ALABI, ADEBIYI, LADOJA AND OTHERS TO GRACE AKINYEMI JELILI’S BOOK LAUNCH

By: Ibadan Book Club

The Secretary General of Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), Dr. Wale Okediran, a Senior Traditional Chief, Ekefa Olubadan of Ibadanland; Oloye Olalekan Alabi, Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Prof. Kazeem Adebiyi and the President of Reading Awareness Society For Development in Africa(RASDA) who is also the wife of a former governor of Oyo State, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, Chief (Mrs) Bukola Ladoja, are among the dignitaries expected at the public presentation of a book, titled, ‘The Cave of a Thousand Demons’ written by Akinyemi Jelili Oyelere.
Mrs. Kate I. Isah, FASI President is expected to Chair the book launch slated for August 7th, 2021 at the Assembly Hall of The Polytechnic, Ibadan by 11am prompt
The book launch which is strictly by invitation and would be conducted under stern compliance of the COVID-19 protocols and guidelines.
According to a copy of the invitation recently given to the Coordinator of Ibadan Book Club, Mrs. Ayobami Odunyemi, Mr. Olukayode Ojo will be the Chief Launcher, while Dr. Solomon Iguanre of Babcock University will be the Book Reviewer.
The historic event promises to be a convergence of key players in the book and literary industry and will provide a veritable platform for stakeholders to discuss the way forward, especially at such a crucial time in the nation’s existence.
Akinyemi Jelili Oyelere hails from Imia town, in Kajola Local Government, Oke-Ogun area, Oyo State, South West Nigeria. He attended Community Primary School, Imia for his Primary Education and proceeded to Isemi-Ile Grammar school for his Secondary Education. He later gained admission into the Polytechnic, Ibadan in 2015 into the Department of Local Government and Development Studies.
During his National Diploma in The Polytechnic, Ibadan. He was Vice President of National Association of Kajola Students (NAKS), Assistant Political Editor to NALGADSS PRESS, Assistant Production Manager to Press Council; The Polytechnic, Ibadan.
Currently, Akinyemi Jelili Oyelere is an HND2 Student of the same Institution and he is the General Secretary of Sustainable Development Club (SDC), PRO, Press Council, Vice President of International African Writers' Association (IAWA), Nigerian Branch.
Also, he is the Coordinator of Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW), The Polytechnic, Ibadan Chapter and Financial Secretary of Ibadan Book Club (IBC).
Akinyemi Jelili Oyelere is a writer, Poet, Author of two books, "Awakening Dreams and The Cave Of A Thousand Demons". His work has been published within and outside his country such as Indian, Philippine, Australia, US, UK, Nigeria, Kenya etc.
He is the Founder of Awakening Dreams Foundation (ADF) a non-governmental, nonprofit, nonpolitical and non-religious organisation that caters for the needs of Youth and teenagers. He is a passionate Volunteer, luminary administrator, teacher and preacher of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

EKITI BOOK CLUB TAKES READING CAMPAIGN TO THE GEM SCHOOL

In a bid to continue the good works left unattended for a brief spell, EBC visited a prominent primary and secondary private school in Oye Ekiti on the 25th of June, 2021.

The junior secondary school students who were the major attendees were lectured by Miss Pelumi Jegede on the values of reading early in life and the various benefits of reading good books no matter the field one might be in.

Miss Olapeju Atere, the second speaker spoke on reading culture and how readers become writers and leaders. She also elaborated on the importance of quality education and how one can make a great change in the world affairs through writing.

The speech was rounded up by Miss Hannah Ojo and a call for avid readers and writers were made in which a very large percentage of the students indicated interest.

It is very encouraging to know that most of these students have read far and wide on several books as they mentioned popular books and names of their authors. This shows a good teaching ethics set by the school authority in grooming their students.

The lecture lasted for an hour and pictures were taken with the students and their teachers.

Olamilekan Okebiorun
EBC Coordinator
+234 812 992 5044

TENANTS OF THE HOUSE RESUMES SHOWING IN CINEMAS NATIONWIDE

By Wole Adedoyin

Promero Productions, the Producer of Tenants of the House has added another week to the show time of the movie.
The movie is set to be unveiled at some selected cinemas nationwide from today, 9th day of July to the 15th day of July 2021.
The movie which was written by Dr. Wale Okediran will now be showing in states like Oyo (Ibadan), Ogun (Abeokuta & Ijebu), Edo (Benin), Rivers (Portharcourt), Lagos (Ikeja), Akwa Ibom (Uyo) and Kano.
Directed by Kunle Afolayan, the movie stars Joselyn Dumas alongside Yakub Muhammad, Dele Odule, Isa Bello, Chris Iheuwa, Rashida Lobo, Funky Malam amongst others.
“Tenants of The House” is a political movie that focused on the need for a peaceful resolution of the herders/farmers crisis in the country is coming to cinemas nationwide on 25th June. The movie is directed by Kunle Afolayan. The story is by Dr. Wale Okediran who also serves as producer, and the screenplay is by Tunde Babalola. Okediran, a former member of the House of Representatives and author, described the flick as a fictional adaptation of his stay in the lower chamber of the National Assembly.
The movie is inspired by his 2009 award-winning novel with the same title and adapted into screenplay to bring out the scenes of suspense, intrigues and thriller which scenes of a recent trailer for the movie depict.
In Nigeria, the Fulani-farmer conflict has been an unending nightmare, ravaging states in the South and North and leading to bloodletting and economic losses. The thrust of the film, which exposed the nagging issue of herders/farmers conflict and did not fail to address corruption in high places and political class, makes it germane at this material time. Right from the time ‘Tenants of The House’ premiered to privileged members of the lower chamber in Abuja in 2019, movie enthusiasts have shifted their attention to knowing what Okediran has in the offing.
Apart from emerging as one movie that many people looked forward to seeing at the cinemas, the brains behind the project and its producer, Okediran, was another factor that drew a large audience to the venue of its premiere then at the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja. Giving news sources an insight into the journey that birthed the movie from his novel, Okediran a member of the House of Representatives from 2003 to 2007, would explain the idea behind the cinema project.
Watch the captivating and exciting movie showing in cinemas nationwide as from the 9th day of July to the 15th day of July 2021.
You can download the Movie trailer here: https://
www.youtube.com/watch?v=41OUSLSld4c
See the attached poster for details

TENANTS OF THE HOUSE RESUMES SHOWING IN CINEMAS NATIONWIDE

By Wole Adedoyin

Promero Productions, the Producer of Tenants of the House has added another week to the show time of the movie.
The movie is set to be unveiled at some selected cinemas nationwide from today, 9th day of July to the 15th day of July 2021.
The movie which was written by Dr. Wale Okediran will now be showing in states like Oyo (Ibadan), Ogun (Abeokuta & Ijebu), Edo (Benin), Rivers (Portharcourt), Lagos (Ikeja), Akwa Ibom (Uyo) and Kano.
Directed by Kunle Afolayan, the movie stars Joselyn Dumas alongside Yakub Muhammad, Dele Odule, Isa Bello, Chris Iheuwa, Rashida Lobo, Funky Malam amongst others.
“Tenants of The House” is a political movie that focused on the need for a peaceful resolution of the herders/farmers crisis in the country is coming to cinemas nationwide on 25th June. The movie is directed by Kunle Afolayan. The story is by Dr. Wale Okediran who also serves as producer, and the screenplay is by Tunde Babalola. Okediran, a former member of the House of Representatives and author, described the flick as a fictional adaptation of his stay in the lower chamber of the National Assembly.
The movie is inspired by his 2009 award-winning novel with the same title and adapted into screenplay to bring out the scenes of suspense, intrigues and thriller which scenes of a recent trailer for the movie depict.
In Nigeria, the Fulani-farmer conflict has been an unending nightmare, ravaging states in the South and North and leading to bloodletting and economic losses. The thrust of the film, which exposed the nagging issue of herders/farmers conflict and did not fail to address corruption in high places and political class, makes it germane at this material time. Right from the time ‘Tenants of The House’ premiered to privileged members of the lower chamber in Abuja in 2019, movie enthusiasts have shifted their attention to knowing what Okediran has in the offing.
Apart from emerging as one movie that many people looked forward to seeing at the cinemas, the brains behind the project and its producer, Okediran, was another factor that drew a large audience to the venue of its premiere then at the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja. Giving news sources an insight into the journey that birthed the movie from his novel, Okediran a member of the House of Representatives from 2003 to 2007, would explain the idea behind the cinema project.
Watch the captivating and exciting movie showing in cinemas nationwide as from the 2nd of July to the 8th of July 2021.
You can download the Movie trailer here: https://
www.youtube.com/watch?v=41OUSLSld4c
See the attached poster for details

UNFAILING: EXPERIENTIAL JOURNEY OF THE EFFICACY OF GOD’S WORDS FOR LAUNCH TODAY, SATURDAY 3RD JULY, 2021

By Ibadan Book Club

A book titled “Unfailing: Experiential Journey of the Efficacy of God’s Words” written by Oyebola Omolola, a Research Scientist, business owner and a student life Coach as well as the Founder of the initiative called “Blessed to Build Initiative” will be unveiled today 3rd of July, 2021 at the American Corner, Along Booksellers, Magazine Road, Jericho Ibadan, Oyo State by 12 Noon.

Important dignitaries expected at the book launching include: Honourable Seyi Adisa, Member, Oyo State House of Assembly, Afijio Local Government (Chief Launcher); Mrs. Funsho Adegbola, Director, The Vale College, Ibadan (Guest of Honour); Mrs. Tolu Adisa, Author, The Good, the Bad, The Ugly….Then Love (Reviewer); Mrs. Temiloluwa Moronkeji, Social Worker, Relationship and Sex Coach, Co-author, Hugging Embers (Reviewer) and lastly Mr. Yinka Babalola, SS Engr. Nigeria (Reviewer).

Published by Purplebloom Publishers, the launching promises to be an avenue for book reading, lecture and networking. Attendance is strictly by invitation. Synopsis and other vital information about the new book will be unveiled during the setting out of the book.

The author, Oyebola Omolola is an Encourager and Equipper who loves to help, inspire and put smiles on people’s faces. She is passionate about the need to help younger women find and express their life’s purpose, solve their personal challenges, as well as sharing resources to aid their personal development.

She is a Research Scientist, business owner and a student life Coach as well as the Founder of the initiative called “Blessed to Build Initiative” amongst which is the “Blessed to Build” wives platform whose sole aim is to raise an army of vibrant wives who are blessed to build the world around them.

She is a member of the Society for Medicinal Plants and Economic Development (SOMPED). She is an Alumni of the University of Ibadan where she was awarded a Bachelors degree in Botany and Master of Science degree in Pharmacognosy. She has published her research findings in reputable peer reviewed journals. Also, she is a certified customer service and telemarketing professional.

She is a Wife, Mother, Speaker and loves using her gifts to improve the lives of people around her.

She is called to use her gifts, knowledge and experiences to help and inspire the women folks generally.

TENANTS OF THE HOUSE STORMS CINEMAS NATIONWIDE

By Wole Adedoyin (ANA PRO South)

Promero Productions has unveiled the official poster detailing the show time of its latest movie, the Tenants of the House across all cinemas nationwide. The much awaited, suspenseful and emotional movie will be watched in states like Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, Edo, Rivers, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Akwa Ibom, Kano to mention but few.
In a statement released by the Producer of the Movie, Dr. Wale Okediran, the movie will be premiered in cinemas like Cartege, Habitat, brand, Mcrystal Ijebu, Mcrystal Ibadan, FH Surulere, FH Landmark, FH Dugbe, FH Akure, Canal Olympia, Ebony Life, Sky Cinemas, TIMSED, CINE 21, Pepperoni, Filworld, Vicolad, Heritage, KADA Benin, KADA PHC, Bluepictures Cinemas, Diamond, OOPL, Nostalgea, Citadel, Mega One, Platinum Cinema, SB Ikeja, SB Jabi, SB SEC, SB Galleria, SB Uyo and FH Kano.
The movie is set to debut at all cinemas nationwide from the 2nd of July to the 8th of July 2021.
Executively produced by Dr. Wale Okediran and Directed by Kunle Afolayan. The movie stars Joselyn Dumas alongside Yakub Muhammad, Dele Odule, Isa Bello, Chris Iheuwa, Rashida Lobo, Funky Malam amongst others.
“Tenants of The House” is a political movie that focused on the need for a peaceful resolution of the herders/farmers crisis in the country is coming to cinemas nationwide on 25th June. The movie is directed by Kunle Afolayan. The story is by Dr. Wale Okediran who also serves as producer, and the screenplay is by Tunde Babalola. Okediran, a former member of the House of Representatives and author, described the flick as a fictional adaptation of his stay in the lower chamber of the National Assembly.
The movie is inspired by his 2009 award-winning novel with the same title and adapted into screenplay to bring out the scenes of suspense, intrigues and thriller which scenes of a recent trailer for the movie depict.
In Nigeria, the Fulani-farmer conflict has been an unending nightmare, ravaging states in the South and North and leading to bloodletting and economic losses. The thrust of the film, which exposed the nagging issue of herders/farmers conflict and did not fail to address corruption in high places and political class, makes it germane at this material time. Right from the time ‘Tenants of The House’ premiered to privileged members of the lower chamber in Abuja in 2019, movie enthusiasts have shifted their attention to knowing what Okediran has in the offing.
Apart from emerging as one movie that many people looked forward to seeing at the cinemas, the brains behind the project and its producer, Okediran, was another factor that drew a large audience to the venue of its premiere then at the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja. Giving news sources an insight into the journey that birthed the movie from his novel, Okediran a member of the House of Representatives from 2003 to 2007, would explain the idea behind the cinema project.
Watch the captivating and exciting movie showing in cinemas nationwide as from the 2nd of July to the 8th of July 2021.
You can download the Movie trailer here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41OUSLSld4c
See the attached poster for details

SYNW SENDS BIRTHDAY GREETINGS TO OYINKANSOLA AT 19
The first Young writers’ body in Nigeria, Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) has congratulated Oyinkansola Adesewa, Eko Book Club Coordinator on her 19th birthday.
SYNW, in a statement by her President, Wole Adedoyin on Tuesday in Ilesa, lauded the Coordinator of Eko Book Club for her service to the Young Writers body.
According to the release, “On the occasion of your birthday, we wish you many more fulfilling years of peaceful service in good health, happiness, and all-round wellness. Happy birthday! We wish you God’s continued guidance, blessing, long life, and prosperity. We pray that the days ahead bring you more of God’s strength as well as glory, honor, and peace! We are glad to celebrate your special day with you.
SYNW in her statement enjoined Oyinkansola’s family, friends, literary associates, and well-wishers to celebrate this new age of her in good health and sound mind.
SYNW finally prayed that the Almighty God will grant Adesewa Oyinkansola longer life, good health and more strength to celebrate more fruitful years.
OYEYIOLA-OURIAS Oyinkansola Adesewa is a graduate of Mass Communication in Les Cours Sonou Universitaire, Benin Republic. Oyinkansola is the 2nd child and last born in her family. She grew with a single mother and her elder brother who has Celebral Palsy. She is a girl child activist and advocate. She is the Founder of “Girls Day Out with Oyinkan” (GDOWO) a yearly advocacy workshop that celebrates the United Nations International Day for the Girl Child. She is also the Founder of Haywire Street Art Painting, a collective of talented girls using arts to advance the cause of women empowerment. Oyinkansola is a multi-talented performance poet, visual artist, writer, actor and designer (design clothes and batiks), dancer, model and motivational speaker, event planner, caterer and make up artist. She's as well a radio presenter for kiddies program (Ajapa World) and she is an MC (anchored the ''End violence against cildren in Nigeria'' in 2016, which was organised by the Lagos state government in collaboration with USAID, UNICEF,CDC and so on). She has participated in some group art exhibitions (Africa4Her at TerraKulture, National Gallery of Art and Culture, National Theatre (Association for the advancement of women in culture-AA.WC-2016) and Tender Arts at SilverBird Galleria). She has also performed poetry at MAKE MUSIC (World music day) in 2017, Black Heritage Festival, Lagos Book and Art Festival (LABAF), was one of those who represented Nigeria and Africa in Brave New Voices poetry festival 2020 and other platforms. She started writing at the age of 6. Her first book titled “Thoughts of a Child” was published when she was 8 years old through a writing contest that she won. Oyinkansola has won a lot of awards and competitions like the Best Art Work at the National Gallery of Arts Competition, Creative Young Artist of the year by the Global Foundation Award and Young Author of the Year by Child Rights Initiative including other numerous awards. Oyinkansola is a budding technology enthusiast and she strongly believes that technological skills should be used to empower the girl child in Africa. She is very passionate about social justice and community development.

ANAMBRA STATE ENDOWS CHINUA ACHEBE PRIZE FOR NIGERIAN WRITING

To mark the 40th anniversary of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) which Africa's greatest raconteur and novelist founded at the University of Nigeria at Nsukka, the Anambra State Government has endowed a one-million naira (N1 million) worth Chinua Achebe Prize for Nigerian Writing.
The Prize is to be administered by ANA founded in 1981.
The state Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, C. Don Adinuba, made the endowment known in Awka, the Anambra State capital, while speaking to journalists today.
Mr Adinuba reported Governor Willie Obiano as stressing that Achebe deserves celebration not only in his native Anambra State but also all over Nigeria, Africa and the world as the globally acclaimed “father of African literature”.
The Chinua Achebe Prize for Nigerian Writing will be awarded to the best novel published by a Nigerian writer in each calendar year.
The prize will be distinctive from the usually awarded ANA Fiction Prize, ANA Poetry Prize, ANA Drama Prize etc in that it will draw entries from distinguished publishers in Nigeria, Africa and the world.
The Nigerian Diaspora that rates quite high on the literary front will through the Chinua Achebe Prize for Nigerian Writing identify strongly with the home front.
Chinua Achebe blazed a trail in world literature when he published the classic Things Fall Apart on June 17, 1958 at barely 27 years of age. The novel has since been translated to well over 60 languages and ignited a boom in African writing. The other novels of Achebe are No Longer At Ease, Arrow of God, A Man of the People, and Anthills of the Savannah.
By instituting the Chinua Achebe Prize for Nigerian Writing, the Anambra State Government has written its name in history as the first state government in Nigeria to honour a writer.
Camilus Ukah, ANA president, has praised Governor Obiano for the honour to Achebe.
"In an era of crass philistinism in Nigeria", he declared in a telephone conversation with Commissioner Adinuba this morning, "it is reassuring that there are top government officials like Chief Obiano who appreciate ideas, letters and culture".
Camilus Ukah said that the governor's gesture has galvanised ANA to consider holding a meeting in Awka to mark the association's 40th anniversary as it has already done in some Nigerian cities.
Signed: C. Don Adinuba
Anambra State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment.

OSOGBO BOOK CLUB PARTNERS ANA OSUN ON READING PROMOTION IN OSUN STATE
Osogbo Book Club and the Osun State Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) under the leadership of Godwin Grace and Bunyamin Zakariyah have concluded plans to partner in the areas of reading promotion and young writers’ mentorship in the state.
This was made known during the June edition of OBC Monthly book reading which featured two Osogbo based Writers, Oladejo Haneef O. (aka) Harnyfman Asishana and Afeez Ayomide Olagunju.
According to Solomon Segun, Osun ANA Caretaker Secretary who represented ANA Osun Caretaker Chairman at the reading assured the executives of Osogbo Book Club of ANA Osun support and partnership in promoting and reviving the moribund reading culture in Osun State.
Osogbo Book Club is an initiative of Society of Young Nigerian Writers. It was established by the Society in order to contribute its own quota towards the growth and development of Reading Culture in Osun State. In 2014, 2016 and 2017, Osogbo Book Club in conjunction with the Osun State branch of the National Library of Nigeria under the headship of Mr. Bashir Akanni Salawu and Mrs Felicia Abosede Oyeleke held series of book reading programmes which were sponsored by the Board aimed at reviving and enhancing book reading culture in the state. The programmes also featured arts exhibitions and reading of creative books.
Every last Saturdays of every month, Osun state book lovers, voracious readers, writers, artists will now be converging to discuss old and latest books, read to an interesting audience, meet the guest writer and reader and also get their works published in the newsletter of the club.
Osogbo Book Club is an initiative of Society of Young Nigerian Writers. It was established by the Society in order to contribute its own quota towards the growth and development of Reading Culture in Osun State. Osogbo Book Club consists of group of people who get together, periodically meet to discuss the book they have read, and to exchange such books. The members of the club encourage each other, and learn to read with a critical awareness, articulating their opinions on a particular book with the others. Certain types of books not available or read receive attention through the book club.

ABEOKUTA BOOK CLUB INAUGURATED IN OGUN STATE

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) on Wednesday 16th of June 2021 inaugurated Abeokuta Book Club at the Rock Liberty School Abeokuta.

The Literary body also appointed Darasimi Adeoye as the interim Coordinator of the club.

This was contained in a press release issued by SYNW President, Wole Adedoyin in Ibadan on Monday.

The launching which was an avenue for book reading, book discussion and networking witnessed the presence of the pupils of Rock Liberty School.

According to the founder of the Club, Wole Adedoyin, said the need to promote effective reading habits among the general populace of Abeokuta Township necessitated into the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) establishing the Club.

The reading activities of Abeokuta Book Club will cut across Ogun state.

Also in a bid to guide Abeokuta Book Club’s strategic direction and coordinate its activities, the Club also appointed a new executive committee headed by Darasimi Adeoye following approval from the members of the Club.

Every last Saturdays of every month, Ogun community book lovers, voracious readers, writers, artists will now be converging to discuss old and latest books, read to an interesting audience, meet the guest writer and reader and also get their works published in the newsletter of the club.

Abeokuta Book Club is an initiative of Society of Young Nigerian Writers. It was established by the Society in order to contribute its own quota towards the growth and development of Reading Culture in Abeokuta Township. Abeokuta Book Club consists of group of people who get together, periodically meet to discuss the book they have read, and to exchange such books. The members of the club encourage each other, and learn to read with a critical awareness, articulating their opinions on a particular book with the others. Certain types of books not available or read receive attention through the book club

SYNW TAKES READING ADVOCACY TO ONDO STATE, SET TO LAUNCH AKURE BOOK CLUB ON SATURDAY, JUNE 26
The Society of Young Nigerian Writers has expressed readiness to inaugurate Akure Book Club on Saturday, 26th of June, 2021 at Moot Court, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba by 3:00 PM.
This was contained in a press release issued by SYNW President Wole Adedoyin in Ilesa on Wednesday.
According to the release, the need to promote effective reading habits among the general populace of Nigeria has resulted in the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) establishing reading clubs in some notable towns and cities across the country.
Apart from the book clubs, the Read Across Nigeria (RAN), Paperless Book Club (strictly for reading electronic books), National Book Awareness Week, National Book Hub, African Book Week, Children’s Book Week are part of the strategies to ginger up the reading culture in Nigeria.
In SYNW, we believe reading is a worldwide phenomenon that has the capacity to promote development as well as instill discipline on the individual. In spite of the importance of reading as a culture, it has become obvious that Nigerian children and youth no longer read. They only read when they have examination to write, outside that, reading has no meaning to them.
Akure Book Club hopes to sensitize, revive and promote moribund/dwindling reading culture in Ondo State.
SYNW finally enjoined intending participants, readers and writers in Ondo State to partake in this historical development.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: RHYTHMS FROM THE PACESETTER STATE


Ibadan Book Club, an initiative of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) invites writers to submit poems, short stories and essays on any topic/issue relating to Ibadan and its environs.

GUIDELINES

1. Submission is free and open to writers from any part of the world.
2. Entrants are free to write on any topic relating to Ibadan and Oyo State
3. Entrant can give their work any interesting title of their choice.
4. Only works that 'comply' to the submission guidelines will be selected and published.
5. Entrants can submit minimum of 3 works and maximum of 5 works
6. Entry MUST be written in English Language
7. Entry should be brief and concise —a maximum of 500 words for short stories, 450 words for essays, and a 40 lines for poetry.
8. Author’s information —location, contact details, and a short bio of no more than 40 words should be included in the submission.
9. Entry MUST be type-written and sent in the body of the mail; NOT AS AN ATTACHMENT. Entries sent as attachment will be automatically disqualified.
10. Entry MUST be original work of the entrant.
11. All entries should be sent on or before 31st of July, 2021. Late entry will not be accepted.
12. Entries should be sent via mail to ibadanbookclub@gmail.com and copy societyofyoungnigerianwriters@gmail.com
13. The subject of mail should be “RHYTHMS FROM THE PACESETTER STATE”.

BENEFITS:

1. All successful and shortlisted entries will be published in IBC Proposed Anthology.
2. Online promotion of the successful/published entries and entrants.
3. All successful/published entrants are entitled to e-copy of the published anthology.
4. Automatic/free membership and admission into the Ibadan Book Club will be given to successful/published young Nigerian entrants.
For further inquiries, support or partnership, contact: Ayobami Odunyemi – Coordinator of Ibadan Book Club and Akinyemi Jelili Oyelere - Jelili – Project Manager - 07064338572

IBADAN BOOK CLUB SET TO HOST OYO STATE LIBRARIAN AS GUEST READER/SPEAKER FOR HER JUNE BOOK READING

Ibadan Book Club (IBC) has set aside June 26, 2021 to host Mrs. A.I Akinlolu, the current Oyo State Librarian as her Guest Writer/Reader for the month of June.

A statement issued by the Coordinator of the Club, Ayobami Odunayo said that the event will take place at the Conference Hall of the Oyo State Library Board, Opposite Cocoa House, Dugbe, Ibadan by 12p.m.

Mrs. Akinlolu will be talking on matters bordering on Oyo State Library Board, its past, present and future activities aimed at promoting and enhancing reading culture across Oyo State. She will also tour the intending participants around the state library as well as read from any of her favourite book(s).

Mrs. A.I Akinlolu, currently Oyo State Librarian. Before attaining the position of State Librarian. Mrs. Akinlolu passed through the following positions: Librarian II 1987-1990, Senior Librarian 1990-1994, Prin. Librarian 1994- 1997, Chief Librarian 1997-2000, Assistant Director 2000- 2003, Dep. Director 2003- 2007, Director 2008 – 2014.

ABOUT OYO STATE LIBRARY BOARD
The Oyo State Library Board under the current headship of Mrs. A.I Akinlolu (State Librarian) came into existence historically in 1955, to support the free primary education of Western State Government led by Late Sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. It was then known as Western Regional Library, was established by the Western State Government toi) compliment the efforts of government toward improving the educational standard (ii) provide qualitative library services to the people of the region and to the school environment (iii) to encourage reading culture among the school children.

In 1976, when Oyo State was carved out of the Western state, the library nomenclature changed to Oyo State Library under the Ministry of Education while the Head of Library was renamed the Chief Librarian.

The development of Library services actually took place in 1988 when the Military Administration of Col. Sasaenia Oresanya decided to enact a law for the establishment of Oyo State Library Board which is regarded as an autonomous government parastatal with the enactment of Edict No 18 of August 1988. This development thereby gave way for the
composition of Board led by Prof. Adebimpe Aboyade and supported by four (4) other professional librarians including Prof. D.F. Elaturoti (then Dr. Elaturoti) and Mrs. Oderinde (then of Kenneth Dike Library, University of Ibadan). The composition of the Board brought the
introduction of active library services in the state while the mandate given to the Board became more pronounced and includes provision of qualitative and quantitative library services throughout the state. These includes: (a) library services to the rural populace, (b) services to school libraries,(c) training of library personnel working in schools, local governments, ministries and other government parastatals (d) to serve as legal depository of all works published in the state.

In 1999, the State government approved the nomenclature of the Head of Library to change from the Director to the State Librarian; and now has 4 directorates namely (a) Public Library Services Department (b) Schools Library Services Department and (c) Administration and
Supply (d) Finance and Accounts. The Board has two (2) functional Branch Libraries in Ibadan at Elekuro and Bodija. Three Zonal Libraries were built outside the State capital at Oyo, Ogbomoso, and Saki respectively. The first two Zonal libraries are functional, while the other
one is almost complete.

Presently, the Headquarters’ complex comprises of about 8 sections including an ICT unit which provides Information Technology services free of charge to the registered library users.

The upcoming book reading event promises to be an avenue for reading creative works such as poetry, fiction, book sales and signing, contacts with other readers and book writers in all corners of the state of Oyo, the statement added.

Prospective writers who have works in poetry, short stories and novels can also attend to read their works to other writers and readers. Membership forms and certificate of membership will be available at no charge to first timers.

Ibadan Book Club is an initiative of the Nigerian Young Writers Society. It was founded in 2011 by SYNW in order to contribute its own quota to the growth and development of the Reading Culture in the State of Oyo.

The Ibadan Book Club consists of a group of people who meet, meet periodically to discuss the book they have read and exchange those books. Club members encourage each other and learn to read with a critical mind, articulating their opinions about a particular book with others. Certain types of books not available or read receive attention through the book club.

Some of the publications published by Ibadan Book Club are: Olubadan Centennial Anthology: a collection of essays, articles, poems and works of art in honor of Oba (Dr.) Samuel Odulana, Odugade 1, Voices from Oja Oba Market and Finally, Senator Abiola Ajimobi: Memories, Dreams, Reflections of a Mind Always in Motion

ANY NEW WRITER SHOULD TRY TO READ AT LEAST 100 BOOKS BEFORE STARTING TO WRITE

Dominic Oigo Maina is currently a final year student of the Kenyatta University. He is currently pursuing Bachelor of Education in Kiswahili Language and Religious Studies. In this interview with Wole Adedoyin, he talks about his writing


WA: TELL US ABOUT YOUR WRITING BACKGROUND- WHAT YOU HAVE WRITTEN, WHAT YOU ARE CURRENTLY WRITING

DOM: I am Dominic Oigo Maina, Kenyan citizen aged 24 years. I am finalist in one of the top Universities in Kenya- Kenyatta University in the school of Education where I am pursuing Bachelor of Education in Kiswahili Language and Religious Studies. I started writing at the age of 13 where I used to write short essays and poems. Although I was not published from age 13, it was when I joined college that I was first published. My two books, written in Kiswahili language were published when I was a first-year student. Since then, I have continued to write a number, published 8 books in Kiswahili language and the first English story I wrote is on Science Fiction which is soon being published by a publisher in New Zealand.

WA: WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT A PIECE OF WRITING?

DOM: What excites me in a piece of writing is the suspense I create when writing, vividly knowing what I intend to write but keeping it a secret from my readers.

WA: WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE WRITERS AND WHY?

DOM: My favorite writers are many but just to mention, I like writers who try to write about African experiences. With this regard, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie from Nigeria comes first then said Ahmed Mohammed of Zanzibar comes second among many others like Ngugi wa Thiong’o of Kenya.

WA: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A NEW WRITER STARTING OUT?

DOM: My advice to every young writer is to have a purpose and never to compare themselves with another writer. They have to be themselves and make the best out of them

WA: WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO WRITE?

DOM: I found that I live in a society surrounded with issues. I find it better to write about these issues and in one way, someone somewhere may end up changing or getting hope from what I write.

WA: DO YOU HAVE A WRITING ROUTINE? A PLACE THAT’S SPECIAL?

DOM: Yes. I have a routine. Try to write at least 500 words of any fiction work daily. I spend most of my time in the library.

WA: HOW, WHEN AND WHY DID YOU FIRST START WRITING?

DOM: I started writing after reading a book by Meja Mwangi called Kill Me Quick. I was 13 years old.

WA: WHAT WAS THE FIRST PIECE YOU HAD PUBLISHED?

DOM: A Kiswahili novel “SIRI YA TISA NA SITA” “The Secret of Tisa and Sita.”

WA: DO YOU ADDRESS ANY PARTICULAR THEMES OR ISSUES IN YOUR WRITING?

DOM: Not really. I am a general writer.

WA: HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED SENDING YOUR WRITING OUT TO THE WORLD?

DOM: The feeling was nice. I remember when I was first published. I did not take supper that night. I was too happy to learn that every lucky individual will read my work and critique it.

WA: WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR IDEAS FROM?

DOM: I get my ideas first from primary sources that is the society and then secondary sources that is books.

WA: HOW DID YOU GET YOUR PUBLISHER?

DOM: I got my publisher through my mentor.

WA: TELL US WHAT KIND OF RESPONSE YOU GET FROM AUDIENCES / READERS

DOM: A positive and encouraging response. Every one inspires me to keep on writing until I reach to the peak.

WA: HOW CAN PEOPLE FIND MORE ABOUT YOU?

DOM: Social media platforms. Facebook; maina dominic dommy; twitter; @Dominic Maina 77

WA: TIPS, TRICKS, THINGS THAT YOU PASS ON TO DEDICATED WRITERS

DOM: Always work hard and they should ensure they become their own in terms of creativity.

WA: ANY TYPICAL MISTAKES THAT NEW WRITERS TEND TO MAKE?

DOM: Rush. Many new writers rush into writing. Other start writing without reading other works. For me, any new writer should try to read at least 100 books before starting to write.

WA: WHICH OF YOUR BOOKS WERE THE MOST ENJOYABLE TO WRITE?

DOM: A Kiswahili novella; Hatima ya Musa. “Musa’s Destiny”

WA: TELL US ABOUT YOUR FIRST PUBLISHED BOOK. WHAT WAS THE JOURNEY LIKE?

DOM: I really cannot recall everything but I remember I wrote the book using a smartphone which had a cracked screen, and I made it.

WA: ON YOUR LATEST BOOK TITLED, CAN YOU SHARE WITH US SOMETHING ABOUT THE BOOK?

DOM: My latest book is a Kiswahili decodable children story where I used literature to teach phonics and sound.

WA: WHAT IS THE KEY THEME AND/OR MESSAGE IN THE BOOK?

DOM: Importance of conserving the environment.

THE HASTE FOR FAME HURRIED MANY WRITERS TO PUBLISH UNWORTHY PIECES - KWAGHKULE, AONDONENGEN JACOB

Kwaghkule, Aondonengen Jacob is popularly known by his pen name "Mr Kvip". He is a poet and a short story writer. His poems appeared or are forthcoming at, Praxis Magazine, The Best of Africa Magazine, Poemify Magazine, Sub-Saharan Magazine, Active Muse, My Woven Poetry, Nantygreens, Eboquills, Ninshart Art including many local and international anthologies and elsewhere. In this interview with Wole Adedoyin, he shares with him facts about his writing career.


WA: TELL US ALL ABOUT YOUR WRITING BACKGROUND- WHAT YOU’VE WRITTEN, WHAT YOU’RE CURRENTLY WRITING

KAJ: Apparently, I have to confess that I had escaped my mother's womb with writing in my name. Although, I didn't know I could write until as recently as two years back when I penned my first poem. Actually, I must have to applaud my coursemate KASIM, Shalom who doubles as the C.E.O, In-House P-Initiative for my exposure into the realm of Poetry. Since then, I couldn't dare to wash my hands with spittle while standing at the riverbank. Therefore, I fathomly delved into Poetry and today my pen can dance to virtually all rhythm of literary genres.

WA: WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT A PIECE OF WRITING-

KAJ: My ecstasy about a piece of writing gets filled when I achieve a particular desired effect which I have in mind before picking up my pen and paper to explore such a hidden reality. In fact, as a writer I make sure my audience are not misinformed. I write devoid of sentiment and dogmatism as well as burying all the mere mumbo-jumbos and stereotypical beliefs in the grave of universal truism. I am happy when my work gets concretized in the hearts of my audience.

WA: WHO ARE YOUR FAVOURITE WRITERS AND WHY?

KAJ: Seriously, it is not easy for me to fairly mention all my favorite writers here. Because every writer I read is substantially good in one way or the other. This notwithstanding, I cherished so much the works of Chinua Achebe, Niyi Osundare, David Diop, Ajio Aondo-aver, Uzer Moses, Biachi Ndidi Anointing, Terseer Sam Baki, just to mention many but a few.

WA: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A NEW WRITER STARTING OUT?

KAJ: An adage says, when we gather at the village square during moonlight, it is not because of the moon, because everyone can see it from his compound, but because it for an upliftment of the spirit of our oneness and togetherness. An upcoming writer who is willing to go further in this tedious journey of writing should always read the works of accomplished writers and possibly join clubs and associations like PIN, ANA, SYNW and the likes which can help to get him or her improved in certain areas of difficulties. No man is an island of knowledge. It is however, a pity that successful budding writers sometimes think they need no tutor...

WA: WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO WRITE?

KAJ: I am inspired by the pains of my daily life struggles. The futile and fruitless forms of aborted dreams. The sorrow and sadness of my people. The vision of the promised better tomorrow which seems never to come, and to right the wrongs that have stylistically become legalized in our society.

WA: DO YOU HAVE A WRITING ROUTINE? A PLACE THAT’S SPECIAL?

KAJ: As of now, I don't have any special writing routine. I use Facebook platform to sell my works to the world. But surely, if one googles my name, one will definitely have one or two tales to tell about me.

WA: HOW, WHEN AND WHY DID YOU FIRST START WRITING?

KAJ: Like I have established earlier, I was borne to write. But I discovered the poet in me about two years ago. It became imperative for me to write because I felt as a citizen I have my quarter to contribute to Nation building. The society unconsciously evoked the consciousness in me and I was left with no option than to express the angered me in a way that authority won't come hunting for my neck. Of course, we have freedom of speech, but we have no freedom after speech. And Poetry served as my backup to this. Above all, a huge thanks to Covid-19, because the year 2020 really exposed my writings to the walls of the world's ears.

WA: WHAT WAS THE FIRST PIECE YOU EVER HAD PUBLISHED?

KAJ: I have had some other publications before now. But until my poem about Covid-19 titled "Sing Us a New Song" was published by Praxis Magazine, I had not called myself a poet. Truly, the publication of this poem confirmed my poetic status.

WA: DO YOU ADDRESS PARTICULAR THEMES OR ISSUES IN YOUR WRITING?

KAJ: Yes. I am a pure Pan-africanist Poet. Also, corruption is one of the prominent themes in my works. Though a man, I strive to create a balance between man and woman in a patriarchal African society, and by this many of my friends call me feminist. I uphold dreams, visions, aspirations, life, pains, sadness and sorrows through my writings.

WA: HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED SENDING YOUR WRITING OUT INTO THE WORLD?

KAJ: I felt very excited. In fact, the euphoria of recent publication still wears my soul like a soothed roasted yam. I was mad when I uploaded my poems on a public site called Internetpoems.com and they were accepted. To me, that was the beginning of a merciful journey into the world of poetry. To cap it all is this singular fact that my late father's name keeps going to places his own legs couldn't carry him while alive.

WA: WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR IDEAS FROM?

KAJ: A common adage has it that experience is the best teacher. And whatsoever that doesn't kill a man only makes him stronger. Therefore, I write from my flaws. I also write from heartbreaks and the experiences of friends and family.

WA: HOW DID YOU GET YOUR PUBLISHER?

KAJ: The world has gone globalized and everything now happens in a jiffy. We no longer carry our legs from here to there in search of Publishing Houses. Facebook is one of the platforms that has so far helped me a lot in my writing career. I come to know most of the 'call to submissions' via it.

WA: TELL US WHAT KIND OF RESPONSES YOU GET FROM AUDIENCES\ READERS.

KAJ: The responses are not too bad as of now. Many people who have read my works encouraged me to do more. In fact, some even shower unnecessary eulogies, but I promise myself not to be drowned in the pool of their excessive praises because the best in me is yet to be explored.

WA: HOW CAN PEOPLE FIND OUT MORE ABOUT YOU?

KAJ: I have an itching song on the tip of my tongue and when I sing the sweetness of such a rhythmic tone, the world shall chorus the lyrics of a young poet like me.

WA: TIPS, TRICKS, THINGS TO PASS ON TO DEDICATED WRITERS?

KAJ: Yes. Whatever that is worth doing is worth doing very well. And whatever good thing one does do today, does pay one tomorrow. It is obvious that not all dedicated writers are successful but all successful writers are dedicated writers. Play your role and leave the rest for God to handle.

WA: ANY TYPICAL/COMMON MISTAKES THAT NEW WRITERS TEND TO MAKE?

KAJ: All new writers (myself inclusive) are fond of using both American and British spelling interchangeably in a single write-up which is wrong. Aside that, the haste for fame hurried many writers to publish unworthy pieces.

WA: WHICH OF YOUR BOOKS WERE THE MOST ENJOYABLE TO WRITE?

KAJ: It is important that I state categorically clear that I have written up to three poetry collections. Although, none is published due to financial challenges. The latest among the collections is "The Caskets of Breathing Carcasses" which I personally enjoyed writing.

WA: TELL US ABOUT YOUR FIRST PUBLISHED BOOK? WHAT WAS THE JOURNEY LIKE?

KAJ: My first published book is an eBook published on Wattpad by Poetry Abilities as a reward for winning her Poems of Lights, 2020 Anthology Contest. My book is titled "Gentle Tides", a collection of Love poems. The journey was smooth like a maiden silk.

WA: ON YOUR LATEST BOOK TITLED "THE CASKETS OF BREATHING CARCASSES" CAN YOU SHARE WITH US SOMETHING ABOUT THE BOOK

KAJ: My latest Poetry book is "The Caskets of Breathing Carcasses", it is a collection that expresses the agony of a people who are dead long before they are born. The poems are so fascinating that everyone may like to read it.

WA: WHAT IS THE KEY THEME AND/OR MESSAGE IN THE BOOK?

KAJ: The Central idea in the book is inhumanity vs humanity; the cause of our curses and courses of our national retrogression.

BIOGRAPHY:
Kwaghkule, Aondonengen Jacob is popularly known by his pen name "Mr Kvip". He is a poet and a short story writer. His poems appeared or are forthcoming at, Praxis Magazine, The Best of Africa Magazine, Poemify Magazine, Sub-Saharan Magazine, Active Muse, My Woven Poetry, Nantygreens, Eboquills, Ninshart Art including many local and international anthologies and elsewhere...

He is a Top-Ten Winner of The League of Poets' Covid-19 Relief Competition, 2020. Contributor, Brigitte Poirson Poetry Contest (BPPC) 2020 Anthology. Entrant, Society of Young Nigerian Writers' Achebe: A Man of the People 2020 Anthology. Joint-Winner, PIN 10-Day Poetry Challenge (Feb.2021). His Chapbook "To Our Lads & Lasses" made the longlist of Pengician Poetry Chapbook Series/Prize, 2021...

"To Our Lads & Lasses" expresses the agony of war as masterminded by corrupt leaders. And while the innocent die in warfronts like chickens, the initiators of blamed war enjoy the coolness of their luxurious seats at home. It comprises tales one will not wish to have performed physically. But sadly, everyday we dance to the sounds played by fire-vomiting bamboo sticks. It is high time we changed the narrative. Let us sheath our swords and hug Peace, Unity, Love and Progress

Currently, Kwaghkule Aondonengen Jacob is a penultimate student of English and Literary Studies at Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. He is also the Secretary and acting Press Secretary of In-House P-Initiave, Director of Tiv Magazine and Regional Administrator (for Africa) at One World Writers Movement.

OSOGBO BOOK CLUB SET TO HOST OLADEJO HANEEF AND AFEEZ OLAGUNJU FOR HER JUNE READING IN OSUN STATE

Osogbo Book Club (OBC) has set aside 19th of June, 2021 to host two Osogbo based writers, Oladejo Haneef O. (aka) Harnyfman Asishana and Afeez Ayomide Olagunju, in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State.
A statement by Godwin Grace, the Coordinator of the club, said the event would take place at the T.M. Aluko House (ANA Osun State Secretariat) Unique Success Academy Annex, Behind WAEC Office, 2 Uncle K Street, Akinlade, Alekuwodo, Osogbo by 12PM prompt.
Oladejo Haneef O, also known as Harnyfman Asishana is a graduate of English language and Education at Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti. He is a teacher, poet, writer, and motivator. He loves writing poems with every surrounding theme because his inspiration is driven by the happenings around him. He is friendly and straightforward; he is simple, and simplicity is beheld in most of his works that have found their ways to anthologies, magazines, and journals. He was one of the shortlisted Top 100 Student Poets in Nigeria by the PIN NSPP (Nigerian Students Poetry Prize) Award in 2017.
Afeez Olagunju is the founder of Cereus Publications. He is a graduate of Computer science. He is also a songwriter, innovator and poet. He has featured on various anthologies and has edited and published a host of works.
The forthcoming book reading event promises to be an avenue of book and poetry reading, Spoken words, book sales and signing, networking with fellow book readers and writers across the nooks and crannies of Osun State, the statement added.
Upcoming writers who have works in poetry, short stories and novels can also attend to read their works to fellow writers and readers. Membership forms and Certificate of Membership will be made available free of charge to the first timers.
Osogbo Book Club is an initiative of Society of Young Nigerian Writers. It was established by the Society in order to contribute its own quota towards the growth and development of Reading Culture in Osun State. Osogbo Book Club consists of group of people who get together, periodically meet to discuss the book they have read, and to exchange such books. The members of the club encourage each other, and learn to read with a critical awareness, articulating their opinions on a particular book with the others. Certain types of books not available or read receive attention through the book club.

CALL FOR ENTRIES: AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS PLAYWRITING PRIZE

African Human Rights Playwriting Prize invites inspiring, original one-act plays in English with a maximum playing time of 10 minutes that focus on Human Rights issues in Africa. A ten-minute play is generally around 10 pages long.

The plays can explore any of the following human rights themes: Freedom of Expression, Government Violations, Police Brutality, corruption, forced Eviction, terrorism, Gender Inequality, LGBT Rights, Child Labour, Child Marriage, Domestic Violence, violence and discrimination against women; child abuse; female genital mutilation, ethnic, regional, and religious discrimination, child trafficking etc.

African Human Rights Playwriting Prize aims to elevate public consciousness and understanding of human rights values through plays in order to guarantee the safeguarding of people's rights in Africa.
Also, there will be 10 shortlisted plays (to be published in the e-book), and five winners.
PRIZE(S)
1. Only (Five) 5 selected outstanding plays will receive live, professional production of their works online during IHRAF’s Evening of Theatre at 2PM NYC time and 8PM in Africa in a later date that will be announced.
2. Issuance of Certificate of Merit signed by the Founder and Executive Producer of IHRAF, Tom Block
OTHER BENEFITS
• Award of Certificates of Participation to all Entrants.
• Award of Certificates of Excellence to only the shortlisted entrants.
• Only the shortlisted play(s) will be published in e-book format
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
• Original one-act plays in English with a maximum playing time of 10 minutes long only
• No monetary prize
• The play must be a new and original piece of work. The play must not have been published in any form or awarded previously.
• Entries are welcomed from anywhere in the world
• Entrants must adhere strictly to standard playwriting format.
• Plays that have had a workshop, reading, or non-professional production will be considered
• Only one play per entrant
• Plays must have Human Rights at heart.
• Plays that have been previously produced or published are not eligible;
• Entries will be judged based on set, cast, technical requirements, dialogue, story development, style and conformity to contest rules. Participants also have the flexibility to use any type of play, however, the scope of the submission must directly relate to this year’s topic or it will be disqualified.
• Deadline for submissions is 31st of July, 2021
• Winners will be announced on the 31st of August 2021.
• All entrants must give IHRAF permission to produce their plays. Please note that only 5 outstanding plays will receive live, professional production of their works online at 2PM NYC time and 8PM in Africa in a later date that will be announced.
• The proposed productions are subject to the playwrights agreeing to the terms of IHRAF Production Team.
• Any signs of plagiarism will disqualify the entrant.
• Organizers’ decision is final
• All entries must be submitted to: ihrafnigeria@gmail.com and also copy societyofyoungnigerianwriters@gmail.com.
• Title of your mail should be addressed as “AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS PLAYWRITING PRIZE”
• Entrants are advised to send the following information alongside their entries
i. Name
ii. Age
iii. Gender
iv. Country
v. Address
vi. Phone Number
vii. Where you heard about the Call for entries
viii. Short Profile about yourself.
x. Name of school or university if any

For more enquiries contact: Wole Adedoyin +2348072673852 (woleadedoyin@gmail.com)

IHRAF RELEASES NEW ANTHOLOGY ON HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSE IN AFRICA
As part of her contribution towards curbing the issues of human rights abuse and violation in Africa, the International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) has thematically released a new classic and international essay anthology.
Edited by Nigerian author and journalist, Izunna Okafor, the anthology, entitled "The Malady and the Remedy" is a collection of twenty (20) essays on human rights abuse and violation in Africa, written by essayists, authors and human rights activists from different countries in Africa; as well fifteen (15) inspiring human rights quotes by selected activists around the world.
According to a statement, issued by the Coordinator of IHRAF in Africa, Mr. Wole Adedoyin, who announced the official release of the new anthology, the 20 essays published therein are the essays longlisted in the 2021 human rights essay competition recently organised by IHRAF (African Chapter), captioned "African Human Rights Essay Competition 2021", through which which 45 essays were received from different countries in Africa.
He congratulated all the entrants who participated in the essay competition, and appreciated everyone who contributed in one way or the other to the success of the initiative and the publication of the anthology, particularly the IHRAF founder, Tom Block, who is also an American author and playwright; as well as the editor of the anthology, Izunna Okafor, who is also an award-winning author and journalist.
In his Editor's Note, the editor of the new anthology, Izunna Okafor noted that the publication was a fulfilment of one of the promises made while calling for submissions of essays for the competition, during which only shortlisted entries and entrants were promised publication —a promise that was eventually extended to the longlisted essays and entrants, owing to the quality of their contents.
He wrote, "Although only the shortlisted essays and essayists were promised publication during the 'call for submissions', it became really wise to adjust further to accommodate all the longlisted essays and essayists in this publication, beholding the perceived extraordinary quality, relevance and efficacy of their contents in actualising the overall goal of the initiative, which is to promote human rights values in Africa and positively influence the betterment of the human rights situation in the continent.
"It is the conglomeration, editing and publication of these twenty longlisted essays that gave birth to this classic anthology, entitled "The Malady and the Remedy".
"The essays published herein take both the form of stories/narratives, analyses, etc, to x-ray, bemoan, condemn and challenge the incessant abuse and violation of human rights in Africa, the unsafeness of Africa for human rights activists and freedom fighters, as well as recommend the elixirs to all these ills against humanity.
"Aside its intriguing, thought-provoking, informative, educative and didactic qualities, another most outstanding feature of this anthology is that the essays published therein do not just condemn human rights violations and make recommendations; they are research-based and deep rooted.

"In other words, these essays experientially and comparably
look deep into the history of human rights and human rights abuse/violation in Africa, the causes, the types, what and what have been done so far to better the situation, why those things are not yielding the expected results, and finally
propose/present better and more efficacious alternatives to addressing this age-long issue of human rights abuse, borrowing from the experience of yesterday, the situation of today, and the projection for tomorrow.
"Indeed, this anthology is a must-read for everyone who loves human rights and freedom. Every human being deserves to be treated as a human, for his being. Freedom fighting and right activism should be for all and for everyone. Human rights are for every human; and Africans are humans. For every other thing regarding that, flip through the pages of this anthology, and come out a better activist."
TO DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY, KINDLY LOG ON TO
https://www.ihraf.org/african-secretariat https://ihrafessayanthology.files./2021/06/themaladyandtheremedyeditedbyizunnaokafor..-1.pdf

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS – VOICES FROM THE LAND OF VIRTUE


Writers at all stages of their careers; new or established in Osun State, are invited to submit their works to Osogbo Book Club on poetry, essay and flash fiction in the maiden edition of its anthology. Osogbo Book Club aims to enhance the reading culture amongst people living in Osogbo and environs.

Works in form of poetry, essay and flash fiction that encourage reading culture are required for this publication.

An individual is entitled to submit at most 3 works of poetry or 2 essays or flash fictions.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:

Ensure your work is in any of the three categories listed above. i. e. Poetry, Essay or Flash fiction.

-For poetry: Ensure each of your poems is not more than 25 lines. Send no more than 3 poems and separate each by title.

-For essay: Your essay should not be more than 1500 words.

-For Flash fiction: Your work of fiction submission should not be more than 1000 words.

- Include a cover page highlighting your name, email address, phone number, current address, and bio in the third person. Your entrie(s) should be in MS Doc.

- Entries should be sent to: societyofyoungnigerianwriters@gmail.com and the other two Editors

- Deadline for the submission is the 14th of July, 2021.

-Submit your work to any of the listed editors below to publish your work in the anthology. Kindly do not submit previously published poems.

MEET THE EDITORS:

AFEEZ OLAGUNJU

Afeez Olagunju is the founder of Cereus Publications. He is a graduate of Computer science. He is also a songwriter, innovator and poet. He has featured on various anthologies and has edited and published a host of works.
Email: olagunjuafeez@gmail.com
WhatsApp: 07063215589

HARNYFMAN ASISHANA

Harnyfman Asishana (Oladejo Haneef Olalekan) is an indigene of Osogbo. A graduate of English language Education from Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti. A Poet, a teacher and a motivator. His poems have featured in different anthologies.
Email: oladejohaneef@gmail.com
WhatsApp: 08137212926


Live in Art.

SYNW FUOYE CHAPTER UNVEILS INTER-VERSITY CREATIVE WRITING COMPETITION, CHALLENGES FOUR OTHER CHAPTERS IN A LITERARY CONTEST
In order to foster good relations amongst Society of Young Nigerian Writers Chapters in different universities across the country and also to hone every member's literary prowess.
SYNW (FUOYE CHAPTER) has unveiled SYNW Inter-Versity Creative Writing Competition and set down a competition between four schools that would last for two days.
The Competition would kick off on the 11th and 12th of June, 2021. The following categories would have two competitors each:
Prose
Poetry
Spoken-word Poetry
Comprehending abilities
There would be only one winner and one prize. The participating schools are:
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
University of Calabar, Calabar
Achievers University, Owo, Ondo state
Bayero University, Kano
For more information, contact the Coordinator of SYNW FUOYE Chapter, Adebobola Victor Ademayowa on 08144013365.

CALL FOR ENTRIES: CREATORS OF JUSTICE LITERARY AWARDS
SUBMISSION WINDOW IS OPEN!
IHRAF PUBLISHES
ANNOUNCES
CREATORS OF JUSTICE LITERARY AWARD
THERE IS NO ENTRY FEE FOR PARTICIPATION
Deadline: August 31, 2021
Submissions must include cover letter, bio and the category (Poetry, Short Story or Essay) in which you apply.
Please send submissions to: hello@ihraf.org with the subject line: “Creators of Justice Literary Award”
The International Human Rights Art Festival announces the creation of this new literary award, celebrating poetry, short stories and essays which use the written word to celebrate justice.
This ideal may be imagined in any manner in which the writer sees fit, however, it must be based in our signature values of beauty, sincerity, vulnerability and engagement. We do not publish work or engage with artists whose work is based in anger, or stems from an “us v. them” mentality. We feel strongly that all human conflict is representative of human spiritual immaturity — and no group of people, ethnicity or religion are immune from human spiritual immaturity.
There are three monetary prizes in each category: Poetry, Short Story and Essay. Each writer may make one submission in each category (total of 3 submission per writer). Awards are as follows:
First Prize: $150
Second Prize: $100
Third Prize: $50
Honorable Mention: 5 writers will have their work published on IHRAF Publishes
https://www.ihraf.org/creators-of-justice-literary-awards

IHRAF RELEASES NEW ANTHOLOGY ON HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSE IN AFRICA
As part of her contribution towards curbing the issues of human rights abuse and violation in Africa, the International Human Rights Arts Festival (IHRAF) has thematically released a new classic and international essay anthology.
Edited by Nigerian author and journalist, Izunna Okafor, the anthology, entitled "The Malady and the Remedy" is a collection of twenty (20) essays on human rights abuse and violation in Africa, written by essayists, authors and human rights activists from different countries in Africa; as well fifteen (15) inspiring human rights quotes by selected activists around the world.
According to a statement, issued by the Coordinator of IHRAF in Africa, Mr. Wole Adedoyin, who announced the official release of the new anthology, the 20 essays published therein are the essays longlisted in the 2021 human rights essay competition recently organised by IHRAF (African Chapter), captioned "African Human Rights Essay Competition 2021", through which which 45 essays were received from different countries in Africa.
He congratulated all the entrants who participated in the essay competition, and appreciated everyone who contributed in one way or the other to the success of the initiative and the publication of the anthology, particularly the IHRAF founder, Tom Block, who is also an American author and playwright; as well as the editor of the anthology, Izunna Okafor, who is also an award-winning author and journalist.
In his Editor's Note, the editor of the new anthology, Izunna Okafor noted that the publication was a fulfilment of one of the promises made while calling for submissions of essays for the competition, during which only shortlisted entries and entrants were promised publication —a promise that was eventually extended to the longlisted essays and entrants, owing to the quality of their contents.
He wrote, "Although only the shortlisted essays and essayists were promised publication during the 'call for submissions', it became really wise to adjust further to accommodate all the longlisted essays and essayists in this publication, beholding the perceived extraordinary quality, relevance and efficacy of their contents in actualising the overall goal of the initiative, which is to promote human rights values in Africa and positively influence the betterment of the human rights situation in the continent.
"It is the conglomeration, editing and publication of these twenty longlisted essays that gave birth to this classic anthology, entitled "The Malady and the Remedy".
"The essays published herein take both the form of stories/narratives, analyses, etc, to x-ray, bemoan, condemn and challenge the incessant abuse and violation of human rights in Africa, the unsafeness of Africa for human rights activists and freedom fighters, as well as recommend the elixirs to all these ills against humanity.
"Aside its intriguing, thought-provoking, informative, educative and didactic qualities, another most outstanding feature of this anthology is that the essays published therein do not just condemn human rights violations and make recommendations; they are research-based and deep rooted.
"In other words, these essays experientially and comparably
look deep into the history of human rights and human rights abuse/violation in Africa, the causes, the types, what and what have been done so far to better the situation, why those things are not yielding the expected results, and finally
propose/present better and more efficacious alternatives to addressing this age-long issue of human rights abuse, borrowing from the experience of yesterday, the situation of today, and the projection for tomorrow.
"Indeed, this anthology is a must-read for everyone who loves human rights and freedom. Every human being deserves to be treated as a human, for his being. Freedom fighting and right activism should be for all and for everyone. Human rights are for every human; and Africans are humans. For every other thing regarding that, flip through the pages of this anthology, and come out a better activist."

EKITI BOOK CLUB TAKES READING CAMPAIGN TO ST. AUGUSTINE COMPREHENSIVE HIGH SCHOOL, OYE-EKITI

On the 20th day in the month of May, 2021, members of the Ekiti Book Club in persons of Olamilekan Okebiorun (Coordinator), Hannah Ojo, Oluwapelumi Jegede, Daniel Ayodeji Owolabi, Victor Ademayowa and a speaker from Nairobi, Kenya, in person of Mr. Tehilla, popularly called Mr. Wealth make their way into the premises of St. Augustine Comprehensive High School at 12:40 noon.
Within the minutes of 12:40 pm — 1:00pm, some members of the school's management are met and they, in turn, make the students ready for the talks of the Ekiti Book Club.
By 1:05pm, the coordinator of the Ekiti Book Club, Olamilekan Okebiorun asks every present member of the Book Club to say their names in the presence of the students. He further goes on to state the purpose and goals of the Book Club, carefully carrying the students along.
After the words of the coordinator, the first speaker, Daniel Ayodeji Owolabi, takes the podium to inform the students about what Reading Skill is. He mentions the importance of having a list for books to be read each month. He reiterates the need to avoid distractions and he urges each student to know what works for them (He states how he can read in places with a noisy background and how someone else may not be able to). In all, he advises the students to take reading seriously.
Mr. Wealth, the second speaker, talks about education in Africa at large. Having a wealth of experiences as a sojourner in quite a number of African countries, Mr. Wealth takes the students on a journey by citing examples of two pupils he met in two of his journeys. He further mocks the reading culture of most students by saying, "you only read when it is a day to exams, how do you expect quick assimilation?" He urges the students to read every time. He says reading is not necessarily about finishing a whole 250-paged book in a day, it is about choosing to consistently read per day. He cites himself as an example; he is someone who reads six books in a month. He encourages the students that they can do the same.
At the end of the talks, students show their interest in the Book Club, pictures are taken (with the teachers first and then, the students) and contacts are exchanged.

EKITI LAUNCHES HER BOOK CLUB IN GRAND STYLE

Following the various broadcasts about the Ekiti Book Club inauguration, she finally achieved that feat on 21st of May, 2021 at the proposed venue, Faculty of Arts Building, New Pavilion hall in Phase 1 of the Federal University, Oye, Ekiti state.
The programme kicked off at around 2pm with a sizeable number of invitees already bustling around. It was hosted by the current President of the department of English and Literary Studies, Mr David Amodu Abideen, who with his witticism and humor, carried the audience along in the order of things.
Mr. Tehella Wealth, an Afriaa man from Kenya, who runs an NGO called "Run-Up Africa", gave the first speech emphasizing on "Longetivity" and the need for man to develop the right mindset towards achieving his purpose so as to live an impactful life. He urged readers to read uplifting books that adds value and he was quoted saying, "you have to change yourself before you can change the world". He added by saying Africans should be readers so that they would not be enslaved by the most vicious of all slavery, which is the mental slavery.
Conclusively, he inserted that the worst thing that can happen to one is to be successful in the wrong things.
After this powerful session, the Coordinator himself, Mr Olamilekan Okebiorun, and Wofai, a talented guitarist, performed a musico-poetry termed "When a boy tells you that he loves you" which enraptured the audience and earned an overwhelming applause.
Abiodun Ekundayo Peter, a 200level student of English and Literary studies, also rendered a beautiful trado-poem, "Àbèké Òshìn" which spoke on a man's love for a beautiful maiden.
The Guest of Honour, Dr. Sandra Nwagboso, after being welcomed with a standing ovation, spoke explicitly on "The Benefits of Reading". She started by delving into the history of language, communication, evolution of man, writing and then reading.
She mentioned the various forms of writing and the essence of reading. Some of her key words are:
- Readers are never ignorant.
- Reading is a great way of exercising the brain as it helps one to focus and concerntrate.
- Reading helps to generate experience about fellow human situation and evoke empathy.
- Reading improves mental health and make one live longer.
- Reading improves communication skills and is a form of premium entertainment.

She ended by urging writers and readers alike to be vast in knowledge by reading books of different fields, keep a diary and keep reading and writing.
She thus ended her speech by beseeching readers to read biographies on known readers and photo-copy their achievements.
Next was the poem reading session which was set in motion by the Faculty of Arts President in the person of Miss Ayobami Asiat, and the ELS President, Amodu, as they read the two poems, Àbíkú by John Pepper Clark and Wole Soyinka. The poem was beautifully dissected and analysed by wonderful members of the association, voicing their thoughts, critic, and views on it. It was very active, interesting and insightful.
The Coordinator for Society of Young Nigerian Writers, FUOYE Chapter, Mr. Adebobola Mayowa Victor also engaged the people in asking and contributing on salient issues of the general society.
Lastly, the Coordinator, Mr. Olamilekan Okebiorun, gave his vote of thanks while light refreshments were being served, and blessed the audience with one of his wonderful spoken-word poems. Thus, the meeting ended with better plans for the subsequent ones.
In all, those in attendance were 55, including Dr. Iroegbu Obinna, a seasoned lecturer of the department of English and Literary Studies, two members of the Union of Campus Journalist (UCJ, FUOYE) who covered the inauguration and interviewed some persons, and Mr. Owolabi Daniel, the head of the COLOURS Magazine.

ART OF UNITY CREATIVE AWARD

https://www.ihraf.org/art-of-unity-creative-award
The call for submissions for 2021 is now open. We accept literary (poetry; essays and short stories under 2500 words); video; music; dance; performance or visual work around the theme: "Never again: Remembering to heal and overcome." All pieces must be previously unpublished.
The most important hallmark of Holocaust remembrance and education is the phrase ‘never again.’ Unfortunately, tribal divisions, ethnic cleansing and genocides continue in the 21st Century. We are looking for submissions in any creative media (which can be exhibited online), and which highlight aspects of human unity, and positive cross-pollination between groups, ethnicities, religions and/or nations.
The work will be curated by a team from the IHRAF and Yahad-In Unum Mid-America.
Send submissions to hello@ihraf.org with the subject line: “Art of Unity Creative Award”. There is no entry fee for participation. Deadline for submission is September 30, 2021. Each artist may make one submission. There are three monetary prizes:
• First Prize: $150
• Second Prize: $100
• Third Prize: $50
• Honorable Mention: 6 artists will have their work presented as part of the winners.
All winners and honorable mention recipients will be promoted via the International Human Rights Art Festival website, Facebook page, Instagram page, e-newsletter and through our media partnership with WNYC radio, the world's largest public radio station. Additionally, a selectio of the winners will be highlighted as part of the Art of Unity performance block at the IHRAF Festival, Wild Project Theater, East Village, NYC on Wednesday, December 8, 2021.

ANA APPOINTS 5-MEMBER CARETAKER COMMITTEE FOR OSUN

The National Secretariat of the Association of Nigerian Authors has appointed a five-member executive caretaker committee for the Osun state chapter of the Association.
This was contained in a press release issued by ANA PRO South, Wole Adedoyin in Osogbo on Sunday.
The committee was constituted following the expiration of the outgoing State Working Committee under the chairmanship of Muriola Awosemo.
The committee is chaired by Bunyamin Zakariyah who would be deputized by Adeola Owolabi, while Soloman Segun serves as the Secretary.
Other members of the committee are Grace Godwin and Taliat Kola Oladipo
According to a letter dated May 23rd, 2021, signed by Maik Ortserga, the National Secretary and addressed to the newly constituted Caretaker Committee in Osogbo, the association announced that the committee would oversee the ANA’s affairs in the state pending the conduct of Election.
The letter said that the appointment is for three month in line with the provision of the Association’s constitution.
The letter read in part: “The National Leadership of ANA considered the expiration of tenure of the current State Working Committee led by Muriola Awosemo in Osun State in respect of the state of affairs of the Association and conscious of the urgent need to reposition it for effective service delivery has resolved to appoint a caretaker committee for Osun State.
“By this appointment, they are expected to provide effective leadership for our Association by ensuring its growth and development in terms of membership drive, organizing literary activities and promotion of reading culture in Osun State in line with the constitution of the Association, the letter added.
Bunyamin Zakariyah Sijuwade is a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University. He is a motivational speaker and a Business Consultant. Currently, the Director of Studies of the Unique Success Academy, Osogbo, Osun State. He is also the Co-founder of LATIMA Cambridge Academy, Osogbo, Osun State. Bunyamin was appointed and inaugurated as the Chairman of the Osun State Teen Authorship Scheme of the Association of Nigerian Authors (Osun State Chapter) in 2018. He is a trusteeship member of an NGO known as Open Conscience and the Convener of Osun Youth Movement (OYM).
Mr. Ben as fondly called by the populace of Osogbo is a veteran in the field of Education. Bunyamin and his educational institute has contributed immensely by touching many lives academically. His experience in the Osun State Education Sector and expertise has affected so many souls here and abroad.
The caretaker committee is to start immediately and work towards conducting elections and returning the chapter to its glorious past.
ANA finally wished the appointees all luck and success in the discharge of this historic burden.

OYO STATE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION: NEW LESSONS I LEARNT FROM PPA – WOLE ADEDOYIN

The yet to be concluded local government elections in Oyo state is one of the historical elections I will never forget. Despite my vast experience in politics and political activism, yet I learnt one or two new lessons. The performance of the People Democratic Party (PDP) did not impress me at all but the boldness, courage, doggedness, perseverance and insistence of one of the relisted political parties, the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA). Theirs is a story of hope, faith, commitment and endurance.
From the onset I followed the party. When my brother called me that there was need for him and his members (being the former Chairman of the defunct African Peoples Alliance Party in Oyo State and the party’s governorship candidate in the 2019 governorship election in the state) to participate in the forthcoming Local Government elections in the state. I told him to give me two weeks to get him one of the registered political parties in the state but he quickly intervened that two weeks was much going through the timetable released by OYSIEC. He quickly interjected that I should get him one of the relisted political parties. His former party, African Peoples Alliance had fused into the All Progressive Congress same week the party was deregistered. They did not contest their illegal deregistration in the court of law.
He said he gave me a minimum of a day and maximum of two days to get him one of the relisted parties. Immediately I heard this, I took the judgment which ordered INEC to relist the concerned parties and glanced through the names of the relisted political parties. I said to myself that I virtually knew all the national Chairmen of the 22 parties but I am closer to some than others. Out of the 22 relisted political parties I chose High Chief Peter Ameh’s Political party, Progressive People Alliance (PPA). High Chief Peter Ameh is one of my political mentors, like I also have it in the persons of Deacon Samson Segun Olalere and Alhaji Yinka Olona. High Chief Peter Ameh is currently the national Chairman of the Progressive Peoples Alliance and the Secretary General of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP). Also a former National Secretary and later President of the Interparty Advisory Council (IPAC).
Immediately, I contacted my brother that the Progressive People Alliance would be a better platform to use. As a former Secretary of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) and the foundation Secretary of the Interparty Advisory Council (IPAC) in Oyo State I still know little about some parties in the state (though I am now politicizing in Osun State). After gotten some information I needed about the party in Oyo State, I went ahead to discuss the issue of PPA participating in the forthcoming local government elections in Oyo State with the National Chairman of the party, High Chief Peter Ameh. Being a true democrat and lover of democracy himself, High Chief Peter Ameh gave my brother a go ahead but also showed his sadness about the sitting governors not being transparent about the conduct of the council elections in their respective states.
After we got his permission, I communicated the development to my brother who was happy and showed a sign of gratefulness to High Chief Peter Ameh. In a jiffy, my brother took into action, converted APA political structure into PPA political structure, called his members and had two intensive meetings. At the end they found their ways to the office of the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC). During PPA meeting with the Chairman of OYSIEC, Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju SAN, Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju SAN insisted that PPA was not among the registered political parties submitted to them by INEC. He stood his ground that PPA would not participate in the Council election. My brother also stood his ground that his party is a registered political party and would participate in the forthcoming council election in the state. My brother went away that day and went back to consult and rework.
The result of his consultation led to the press release accusing OYSIEC Chairman, Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju SAN of disenfranchising his registered political party from participating and voting in the forthcoming local government election despite furnishing the Commission the court judgment relisting his party as a registered political party. The release went viral, got the attention of Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju SAN and invited the executives of PPA to an emergency meeting. This is the beginning of the story of how PPA got her name and logo printed in the yet to be concluded council election in the state.
While this was going on, High Chief Peter Ameh wrote a very brilliant short piece about his lack of interest in the council elections being conducted by the sitting governors of different states in Nigeria. In the piece he described their actions as undemocratic, unconstitutional and fruitless efforts aimed at depriving the masses their democratic rights.
To me it seems High Chief Peter Ameh has spoken his mind and logically would not like his party to venture into such election. I forwarded to my brother the brilliant piece; he read it and was like Wole maybe I should hold a little. My brother was on this compulsory political leave when OYSIEC Chairman; Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju SAN gave him a call to see him in his office. Left to the OYSIEC Chairman, he does not want any qualified political party to be disenfranchised from participating in the Council Poll.
Immediately, my brother also passed a call to some of his members and to me, he asked us if he should go and meet OYSIEC Chairman. We told him to go which he did. When he got to the OYSIEC office, he met headfuls of IPAC members discussing about his party and his party chance of participating in the forthcoming council poll. Those Oyo IPAC members did not know he is the current Chairman of PPA in Oyo State. They thought he represented other political party. They started poisoning the mind of the electoral commissioner, saying bad things about the PPA former Chairman and the inability of the former chairman to field a single candidate for elective positions between 2015 and 2019 general elections. They described the former Chairman as “Onijekuje” and “Ole”. The body language of those party chairmen showed that PPA shouldn’t be included in the forthcoming election because they’ve been deregistered.
This development aroused the curiosity of my brother and he vowed to utilize his wherewithal for PPA to participate in the council election. To my brother PPA is a progressive party with good and masses oriented Manifesto. The uncultured behavior of the past chairman shouldn’t be used to judge the party. PPA has the most democratic manifesto out of the political parties that we have in Nigeria today. The party in 2003 and 2007 won gubernatorial elections in Abia State. It also won the 2007 governorship election in Imo State. In the 2007 Nigerian National Assembly election, the party won three of the 360 seats in the House of Representatives and one of the 109 seats in the Senate. Same scenario happens with the constitution of Nigeria. It’s not that the Nigeria constitution is bad. It is in fact one of the best constitutions in the world but those implementing and executing them are not using it the right way. Nigeria as a country is good but her problem is bad leaders.
In a bid to disgrace those spelling PPA backward, my brother made some research about the party and started spreading her gospel of good governance. Under the inspection of OYSIEC, the party conducted her party primary in one of the secondary schools around Mokola in Ibadan. He went ahead to submit the party’s candidate list and the rest became history.
PPA and my brother really made history in Oyo state being the only relisted party that participated in Oyo council poll few months after Justice M.B. Dongban-Mensem and four others delivered judgment in favour of the 22 deregistered party.
I was in Osun State when I was told that the name and Logo of PPA engrossed the face of Oyo Council election ballot papers. And I was also happy when I heard the returning officers announcing the name and scores gotten by PPA after the conduct of the council election.
To my brother, it’s not about winning the election that matters but about shaming those who are spreading false and fake news about PPA. About shaming INEC who failed to heed the order of Justice M.B. Dongban-Mensem and four others. This single action of my brother has inspired other Chairmen in Southwest whom Justice M.B. Dongban-Mensem and four others ordered that their political parties should be relisted by INEC.
Once again congratulations to my brother, Pastor Tolulope Adedoyin, current Chairman of PPA in Oyo State and to his Secretary, Mr. Kolade Stephen. You all did a good job.

Wole Adedoyin is the Chairman of the Association of Progressive Political Parties in Osun State and the 2018 Governorship Candidate of Hope Democratic Party (HDP).