Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies Set To Publish More Nigerian and African Writers – Wole Adedoyin

 

CAUCASUS JOURNAL OF MILTON STUDIES SET TO PUBLISH MORE NIGERIAN AND AFRICAN WRITERS – WOLE ADEDOYIN

 

The Milton Society of Georgia, under the visionary leadership of Professor Edward Raupp, Professor of English Language and Literature at Gori State University has announced its commitment to amplifying the voices of Nigerian and African writers in the literary landscape. Following the successful release of Vol. 2 No. 2: June 2023, the Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies (CJMS) will now feature more works from the vibrant Nigerian and African literary community. The recent issue showcased the brilliant poetry of Nigerian Poet Michael Chukwudi, marking the beginning of this inclusive literary journey. The CJMS, published by the Milton Society of Georgia and helmed by Editor-in-Chief Danna Raupp, is an internationally acclaimed, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the life and works of English writer John Milton.

Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies (CJMS) e-ISSN: 2720-8222 (online) is a prestigious platform for high-quality, original research with a focus on manuscripts in English. The journal welcomes submissions of various types, including original research articles, review articles, and poetry inspired by the life and works of John Milton.

In a significant step towards fostering literary diversity, the Milton Society of Georgia, under the guidance of Professor Edward Raupp, played a pivotal role in establishing the Milton Society of Africa last year. As part of their commitment to promoting African literary voices, the Milton Society of Georgia sponsored the inaugural Milton Writers Conference held in Ibadan, Nigeria, and the John Milton Writers Competition.

In the Editor's Note from the Vol. 2 No. 2: June 2023 CJMS, the journal's team expressed their delight in featuring contributions from young women pursuing their Master's Degree in Anglistics at Gori State University. Notably, these remarkable students chose to write their theses in English, marking a groundbreaking moment for the university. The recent issue included English translations of two final miniatures from Niko Lortkipanidze and a short poem by Paolo Iashvili, provided by Eter Churadze. Additionally, the translation section introduced a new contributor, Lela Ebralidze, who presented her scientific research on the renowned American poet, Edgar Allan Poe, delighting readers with her Georgian translation of Poe's beloved work, "Annabelle Lee."

The highlight of the issue was the poetry section, featuring the powerful and thought-provoking poem, "DENIAL," penned by Michael Chukwudi, an author of Nigerian-Indonesian heritage. Chukwudi's poem passionately addressed the prevailing injustice in Nigeria, urging for a restoration of justice and an end to the evils plaguing his homeland.

Wole Adedoyin, the driving force behind the project and President of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW), played a significant role in fostering this collaboration. His dedication to promoting literary diversity and providing a platform for African writers has been instrumental in making this endeavor a reality.

The CJMS extends its warm appreciation to all contributors, readers, and supporters, acknowledging that each individual enriches the journal's literary discourse. With a renewed commitment to amplifying African voices and fostering cross-cultural exchanges, the CJMS looks forward to bringing more impactful works from Nigerian and African writers to the forefront of global literary conversations.

For more information and to access the latest issue of CJMS, please visit: https://cjojms.com/index.php/research/issue/view/8

New Research Paper Explores the Power of Artistic Protest and Testimony in "EndSARS Rhythms"

 

NEW RESEARCH PAPER EXPLORES THE POWER OF ARTISTIC PROTEST AND TESTIMONY IN "ENDSARS RHYTHMS"

 

By Wole Adedoyin

A groundbreaking academic paper titled "Poetic Protest and Testimony in Endsars Rhythms" has been jointly authored by Jayne I. Owan and Onyekachi Peter Onuoha from the prestigious Department of English and Literary Studies at the University of Calabar. The research delves into the powerful use of art, particularly poetry, as a medium of protest and testimony during the EndSARS movement in Nigeria.

The paper sheds light on the multifaceted role of EndSARS Rhythms, which serves as both an avenue for entertainment and a medium for documenting the causes of brutalization faced by the Nigerian people, as well as questioning the moral fiber of the society. Amidst threats to life, Nigerians turned to poetry as a potent form of protest to challenge police brutality in the country. The study highlights how art plays a significant role in social movements and resistance to police violence, acting as a vehicle for poetic protest and testimony.

The research involves a comprehensive textual analysis of a digital memorial, revealing how EndSARS Rhythms effectively preserves memory through art while documenting the exploitation and brutality suffered by the youth at the hands of the Nigeria Police Force. It unequivocally establishes EndSARS Rhythms as a poetic protest and testimony against police brutality.

One of the fundamental aspects of the paper is the incorporation of several poignant poems from EndSARS Rhythms that have become a literary testimony for victims of police brutality and survivors in Nigeria. Some of the notable poems featured in the research include “State Armed Robbers Squad (SARS)”  by Frank Kaliati, “EndSARS! LAWMAKERS, OR LAWBREAKERS” by Olude Peter Sunday, “Talk True” by Nkiru Onyeyaforo, “Guns End Dreams” by Olawumi Oluwasogo, “EndSARS” by David Jonathan Inyang, “Homeland in Pain” by Enyia Lilian Nkechinyere, “How Our Lights were Put off” by Nwokeabia, Ifeanyi John, “Spare us! Spare us! By Adaji Elizabeth Mercy, “In Lekki, Heroes Prevailed…” by Merife, Chisom Victor, “To our heroes up” by Adefeyintola Adesegun, “Requiem for victims of Lekki Massacre '' by Chidiebere Enyia, “The night when doves cried”  by Shola Balogun, “Inquest for freedom!”  by Blessing Chinenye David’s  and others.

Through the powerful poetic chronicles presented in EndSARS Rhythms, the movement emerges as a resolute protest against exploitation and brutality within Nigerian society. The poetic narratives eloquently implicate the Nigerian government and police as agents responsible for the subjugation and exploitation of the country's youth. Each poem serves as a witness against the state, condemning the extra-judicial killing of numerous Nigerians.

The significance of the research paper lies in its portrayal of EndSARS Rhythms as a resilient and artistic response to social injustice and oppression. It underscores how the protest movement effectively utilized poetry as a means of expressing grievances, demanding accountability, and advocating for change. The poems themselves become a collective voice of resilience, providing solace to those affected by police brutality and giving hope for a brighter future.

The co-authors, Jayne I. Owan and Onyekachi Peter Onuoha, commend the courage and creativity displayed by the poets in EndSARS Rhythms, and express hope that this research will contribute to a deeper understanding of the power of art in shaping social movements.

The full research paper "Poetic Protest and Testimony in Endsars Rhythms" is available via https://jurnal.fs.umi.ac.id/index.php/tamaddun-life/article/view/161 and https://jurnal.fs.umi.ac.id/index.php/tamaddun-life/article/view/161/129.

END SARS RYTHMS edited by Terseer Sam Baki and Wole Adedoyin and published in electronic and paperback by the International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) in New York, USA. It was a collaborative effort of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers, SYNW, and the International Human Rights Arts Festival, IHRAF, to harness the thoughts, feelings and responses of Nigerian artists and creative writers and the international writing community on the theme of police brutality, assault and battery.

 

IHRAF Announces New Book, “From Africa with Love: Voices of a Creative Continent”

 

IHRAF ANNOUNCES NEW BOOK, “FROM AFRICA WITH LOVE: VOICES OF A CREATIVE CONTINENT”

 

By Wole Adedoyin

The International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) has announced the release of its latest publication, "From Africa with Love: Voices of a Creative Continent." Curated and edited by Kelly Kaur in conjunction with Wole Adedoyin, IHRAF African Secretariat Director, this captivating anthology delves into a tapestry of themes, including love, death, race, women’s rights, politics, and the profound beauty of existence, presenting the unique perspectives of 22 talented African writers and artists.

In "From Africa with Love: Voices of a Creative Continent," readers will be taken on a literary journey like no other. The book encompasses an enchanting underwater world imagined by an eight-year-old alongside raw and poignant reflections on life across the African continent. These thought-provoking glimpses into the human experience paint a rich and diverse portrait of Africa's creative talent and its indomitable spirit.

As an integral part of IHRAF's "Hear the Voices" series, "From Africa with Love: Voices of a Creative Continent" weaves together literary expressions and artwork to celebrate the resilience and strength of the African people. This anthology serves as a testament to the power of art and storytelling in fostering empathy, understanding, and advocacy for human rights.

The contributors featured in the book were carefully selected from the two editions of the IHRAF Interview Series, which showcased over 100 writers and artists curated by Wole Adedoyin in 2021 and 2022. Hailing from five African countries, namely Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Togo, Ghana, and Kenya, these artists and writers bring a rich diversity of perspectives to the table. The anthology includes a wide array of literary forms, such as poetry, short stories, and various forms of artwork.

Among the gifted artists and writers featured in the anthology are Omale Allen ABDUL-JABBAR (Nigeria), Stephanie Mwuese ABUGHDYER (Nigeria), Wole ADEDOYIN (Nigeria), AKANNI Kehinde James (Art) Nigeria, Ugochukwu ANADI (Nigeria), AWKU SundayVictor (Nigeria), Mbizo CHIRASHA (Zimbabwe), Abdoul Ganiou DERMANI (Art) (Togo), Shina FASANMI (Nigeria), IZUNNA Okafor (Nigeria), Frank KALIATI (Malawi), Dominic Oigo MAINA (Kenya), Chigozie Anuli MBADUGHA (Nigeria), Prayerlife NWOSU (Nigeria), Temidayo OLALEYE (Nigeria), Bernice Adebimpe OYELEKE (Nigeria), Mnguember Vicky SYLVESTER (Nigeria), Marcus Ovie UGBODUMA (Nigeria), Sumaila UMAISHA (Nigeria), Stanley UMEZULIKE (Nigeria), Rachel YRAM (Ghana), and Sakinat YUSUF (Nigeria).

IHRAF believes that "From Africa with Love: Voices of a Creative Continent" will serve as a powerful platform to amplify African voices and bring attention to the social, political, and cultural issues faced by the continent. By offering a diverse and compelling collection of narratives, the book seeks to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance of Africa.

The book is now available for purchase through the IHRAF website and select online retailers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CCCPH1X9?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860. IHRAF encourages individuals, educators, human rights advocates, and art enthusiasts alike to support this remarkable project and embrace the vibrant and profound voices of the African creative community.

The International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) is a global platform that unites art and human rights advocacy. Through its diverse programming, IHRAF fosters dialogue, raises awareness, and encourages meaningful action on human rights issues worldwide. IHRAF believes in the power of art to inspire change and promote social justice.

ANA Releases Guidelines for Accessing its e-Library Portal

 

ANA RELEASES GUIDELINES FOR ACCESSING ITS E-LIBRARY PORTAL

 

By Wole Adedoyin

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has announced the release of comprehensive guidelines for accessing its e-Library portal. This virtual library houses a carefully curated selection of databases and collections tailored to meet the academic research needs of its esteemed members.

ANA e-Library Portal offers an extensive array of scholarly resources, making it an indispensable tool for authors, scholars, and researchers. By adhering to the following steps, members can seamlessly access the wealth of knowledge available within the portal:

1.      Membership Verification: Ensure that you are a registered member of ANA Nigeria. Membership can be obtained by joining the Association through the National Secretariat or state chapters.

2.      Authorization Process: Visitors interested in accessing the e-Library must seek authorization from the ANA leadership. Approval can be obtained from either the National Secretariat or state chapters.

3.      Username and Password: Upon receiving authorization, members will be provided with a unique username and password. These credentials are essential for logging into the e-Library portal.

4.      Internet Connectivity: Confirm that your internet connection is stable and reliable to avoid any disruption while accessing the e-Library resources.

5.      Data Security: Protect your account by refraining from sharing your username and password with individuals who are not ANA members. Safeguarding this information is crucial to maintain the integrity of the ANA e-Library community.

If any difficulties arise during the access process, members are encouraged to reach out to the library management for prompt assistance. Queries and technical issues can be directed to info.ananigeria@yahoo.com.

ANA is proud to be the largest umbrella organization for authors in Africa, and the launch of the e-Library portal is a testament to its commitment to nurturing intellectual growth and academic development. The portal's comprehensive databases and collections are meticulously selected to cater to the diverse interests of our esteemed members.

From literary enthusiasts to serious researchers, the ANA e-Library Portal is designed to cater to the various academic pursuits of its members. The availability of this virtual library aims to enhance the quality of research and encourage a deeper understanding of diverse topics.

"ANA is dedicated to empowering her members with the resources needed to excel in their academic and literary endeavors," said Maik Ortserga, General Secretary of ANA. "We believe that the e-Library portal will open new horizons of knowledge and enrich the intellectual landscape of our community."

The release of the guidelines signifies a significant milestone in ANA's mission to foster a thriving literary culture in Nigeria. By leveraging technology and the power of shared knowledge, the e-Library portal aims to revolutionize the way members conduct research and expand their literary horizons.

To access the e-Library portal and embark on an enriching journey of discovery, please visit [https://elibrary.ananigeria.org]. For more information about ANA and its initiatives, kindly visit [ananigeria.org].

 

ANA Osun: Nikeagbeja Adesanya takes over as Caretaker Chairman, Gets Handover Notes

 ANA OSUN: NIKEAGBEJA ADESANYA TAKES OVER AS CARETAKER CHAIRMAN, GETS HANDOVER NOTES

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Osun Chapter, has undergone a seamless transition of leadership as the immediate past Acting Chairman, Mr. Odetayo Wasiu Omobewaji, officially handed over the reins to the newly appointed Caretaker Committee Chairman, Mrs. Nikeagbeja Adesanya.

The handover ceremony took place at the ANA Osun headquarters and marked the beginning of a new era for the literary association in the state.

During the handover ceremony, Mr. Odetayo Wasiu Omobewaji presented a comprehensive 14-page handover notes to Mrs. Nikeagbeja Adesanya, outlining crucial information such as the membership structure, financial report, and membership data of the association. 

This transfer of vital information will facilitate a smooth transition and ensure continuity in the administration of ANA Osun's affairs.

The appointment of Mrs. Nikeagbeja Adesanya as the Caretaker Committee Chairman came after the National Executive Council of ANA recognized the need to reinvigorate the Osun Chapter and appointed a capable team to oversee its activities. Mrs. Nikeagbeja Adesanya, a seasoned literary enthusiast and an esteemed member of ANA, has shown a passion for promoting Nigerian literature and is committed to the advancement of the association's objectives.

The handover ceremony witnessed the presence of distinguished personalities, including the immediate past national publicity of ANA, Wole Adedoyin, who is now an ex-officio member of the association. 

The atmosphere was characterized by unity and harmony, reflecting the commitment of all stakeholders towards the growth and prosperity of ANA Osun.

In her response during the handover meeting, Mrs. Nikeagbeja Adesanya expressed her gratitude for the trust bestowed upon her by the National Executive Council of ANA. 

She assured all present that her primary objective during her tenure as the Caretaker Committee Chairman would be to enhance collaboration among members and foster a supportive environment for literary creativity.

Mrs. Nikeagbeja Adesanya further announced her plans to convene a general meeting, inviting all ANA Osun members, where critical issues affecting the chapter will be discussed. This meeting will provide an opportunity for all members to contribute their ideas and suggestions, promoting transparency and inclusiveness in decision-making processes.

During her address, Mrs. Nikeagbeja Adesanya pledged her dedication to reposition and positively transform ANA Osun within the three-month timeframe assigned to the Caretaker Committee. 

She emphasized her commitment to promoting literary activities, fostering mentorship programs, and increasing the visibility of ANA Osun within the state and the nation at large.

The appointment of Mrs. Nikeagbeja Adesanya as the Caretaker Committee Chairman has generated excitement and optimism among the members of ANA Osun. 

With her wealth of experience and passion for literature, the chapter anticipates a vibrant and productive tenure under her leadership.

The entire literary community in Osun State and beyond is looking forward to witnessing the positive impact of Mrs. Nikeagbeja Adesanya's leadership on ANA Osun as they collectively continue to promote and celebrate the richness of Nigerian literature.

Birthday Galore As KK Shaw Ambush Ana President At Mbari

 

BIRTHDAY GALORE AS KK SHAW AMBUSH ANA PRESIDENT AT MBARI

 

By Maik Ortserga 

 

The July Edition of the Mbari series took an out-of-the-way dimension when, close to the end of the event, the ebullient developer of ANA land, Colonel Kolawole Kayode Shaw, stormed the conference board room, venue of the Mbari series, bearing a mountainous birthday cake and enough assortment of wines to make  a connoisseur of liquor lost in the labyrinth of booze. The size of the cake reminded me of the mountainous  food referred to in Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, where kinsmen who ate at the alternate side could not see their neighbours at the other side until half  the food was eaten. The fanfare was to celebrate the 60th birthday of ANA president Mr Camillus Ukah.

 

Before this well-received intervention, the July edition of Mbari had gone on smoothly under the grand moderating finesse of Professor Emmanuel Dandaura. ANA president Camillus Ukah clanked opened the event with a brief welcome speech before handing over the mic to the host, erudite Professor Udenta Udenta,who brilliantly provoked discussion on the topic “Effective Use of Language in Communication.” He reckoned that the topic was rather  broad and should be reduced to“Effective Use of Language in literary Communication,”since the participants are mostly aspiring writers. He attempted a delineation of the language of literary communication, providing copious examples from the classics to the admiration of the participants. He ended that “the language of literary communication is the kind of language that soars, ennobles, elevates the spirit and uplifts the soul.

 

In her presentation, the lead discussant, the jolly, good-looking Prof. Joy Eyisi thrilled the participants with her presentation in which she disclosed that writers/speakers must understand the capacity of words to move hearts, that is to say words can heal and can also destroy. She also revealed how effective communication demands that basic issues like  correctness,brevity, conciseness, compassion must be clarified and that speakers/writers must always confirm who their audience are to ensure the appropriateness of the use of language.

 

The second discussant, Prof. Francis Egbokhare, who refused to be intimidated by poor network to connect on zoom, presented directly through a phone call. With  the aid of a slide presentation which he sent ahead of the event and which was facilitated by the moderating Professor Dandaura, it was easy for participants to identify what effective use of language entails. The presentation cautioned against  bombastic use of language as in the case of Patrick Obahiagbon and encouraged writers to aim at simple, concise and clear usage  that will make sense to their target audience.

 

There were several reactions from members of the audience including Alternate Chairman, C.P Dr. Emmanuel Ojukwu,  Prof. Razinat Mohammed, Dr Lois Otse Adams, ANA Abuja Vice Chairman, ARA Aderinoye, Ms Olaitan, Vinepaul Chimnemezu Nwaeze, university of Abuja students among others.

 

It was time for the Chairman, Professor Nuhu Yaqup  to close the event when  the atmospheric disruption caused by Colonel Kolawole Kayode Shaw took place, stealing the show in an ambush that was tactically organized with military preciseness, without the knowledge of the celebrant, whose 60th birthday was celebrated six days ago in far away Owerri, Imo State . 

 

In an emotion loaded speech, the president thanked the developer for having faith in him and for all the support he has provided to ANA during his leadership. On his part,Colonel Kolawole Kayode Shaw described  Camillus Ukah as a man with passion for development and prayed that the almighty God should grant him many years ahead. 

 

There was a toast by the FCT chapter Chairman Arch. Chukwudi Eze, who was also moved by the spirit of the moment to announced the ANA-Abuja/ Camillus Ukah Prize for Literature. The celebration galore continued into ANA Abuja July readings where the audience was held in admiration by a roll call of performers of literary pieces.

 

Back in his office, the president was surprised with yet another presentation of a beautiful birthday cake by students of the English Department, University of Abuja who appreciated him  for creating opportunities for aspiring writers to participate fully in literary activities at the Mamman Vatsa Writers Village.

 

As  the sun took a graceful dive beneath the Mpape hills, the participants staggered home carrying the weight of wine and assortment  of refreshment in their bellies, the glaring proof of a day well spent.