Work Title: The Last Resort
Author: Eziwho Emenike Azunwo, PhD
Reviewer: Mr. Ikechukwu Noble
Publisher: Pearl Publishers International LTD
Genre: A play
Pages: 108 pages
Year of Publication: 2024.
Introduction
The story is set in the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Dumbaria, exposing the dark underbelly of academic life. Through this work, Azunwo sheds light on the struggles of students and the corrupt practices of some lecturers, sparking a crucial conversation about the need for reform in Nigeria's educational system.
Plot and Character Analysis
The protagonist, Nhenome, is a determined and passionate student who embodies integrity, bravery, and a strong sense of justice. When he is accused of examination malpractice, Nhenome courageously seeks vindication, refusing to be silenced by the oppressive system. His struggles are juxtaposed with the corrupt and abusive behaviour of Dr. Ginigame, a lecturer who wields power to fail students arbitrarily. Dr. Ginigame is a complex and menacing character, embodying the worst of academic corruption. He is a master manipulator, using his position to exploit and victimize students, particularly those who refuse to bow to his whims. His actions are driven by a toxic mix of ego, entitlement, and a lust for power.
Dr. Ginigame's character serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked authority and the devastating impact of corruption on vulnerable individuals. Through his character, Azunwo exposes the dark underbelly of academic corruption, highlighting the ways in which power can be abused and exploited. Dr. Ginigame's relentless pursuit of Nhenome is a testament to the destructive power of corruption, leaving a trail of broken dreams and shattered lives in its wake.
Themes, subject matters and Author's Intent
1. Social Injustice: The play highlights the unfair treatment of students by lecturers and the university administration.
2. Corruption: Dr. Ginigame's character embodies corruption, using his power to exploit and victimize students.
3. Wickedness: Dr. Ginigame's actions are driven by a desire to harm and destroy others, exemplifying wickedness.
4. Victimization: Nhenome's story showcases the victimization of students by corrupt lecturers and the system.
5. Oppression: The play exposes the oppressive nature of the academic system, where students are silenced and powerless.
6. Courage and Resistance: Nhenome's courage and determination to fight for his rights inspire others to resist oppression.
7. Academic Malpractice: The play tackles the issue of examination malpractice and the corruption that enables it.
8. Abuse of Power: Dr. Ginigame's character demonstrates the dangers of unchecked power and authority.
9. Injustice in Education: The play highlights the injustices within the educational system, including unfair grading and exploitation.
10. Empowerment: The play encourages students to stand up for their rights and demand a better education system.
11. Reform and Change: The play advocates for reform and change in the Nigerian educational system to address corruption and injustice.
These themes are central to the play's message and are used to critique the Nigerian educational system and advocate for change.
The play tackles the pervasive issue of lecturers failing students without justification, often demanding bribes or sexual favours. Azunwo aims to empower students to stand up for their rights, despite the challenges, and to break free from the shackles of oppression. Through Nhenome's story, the author encourages students to fight for their freedom and demand a better education system, one that values merit and hard work over corruption and nepotism.
Relevance and Impact
The Last Resort is a thought-provoking play that tackles pressing issues in Nigeria's educational system, making it highly relevant to the society. The play's exploration of victimization, corruption, and oppression resonates deeply with the experiences of many students and educators in Nigeria.
1. Exposing Corruption: The play sheds light on the corrupt practices of some lecturers and administrators, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in academic institutions. This exposure is crucial in a society where corruption is a pervasive problem.
2. Empowering Students: By encouraging students to stand up for their rights and demand a better education system, the play empowers them to become active change-makers. This is particularly important in a society where students are often marginalized and silenced.
3. Fostering Critical Thinking: The play promotes critical thinking and resistance against oppression, essential skills for students to navigate the complexities of Nigerian society.
4. Advocating for Reform: The Last Resort advocates for reform and change in the Nigerian educational system, addressing issues like examination malpractice, unfair grading, and exploitation. This call to action is vital in a society where educational reform is long overdue.
5. Breaking the Silence: By sharing Nhenome's story, the play breaks the silence surrounding the struggles of students and educators in Nigeria, creating a platform for others to share their experiences and demand change.
6. Promoting Social Justice: The play's themes of social injustice, oppression, and resistance resonate with broader social justice movements in Nigeria, making it a valuable contribution to the national conversation.
7. Encouraging Accountability: By highlighting the consequences of unchecked power and corruption, the book encourages accountability among educators, administrators, and students, promoting a culture of responsibility and integrity.
8. Supporting Education Reform: The Last Resort supports efforts to reform Nigeria's educational system, aligning with initiatives aimed at improving academic standards, reducing corruption, and enhancing student experiences.
9. Inspiring Change: The play's message of resistance and empowerment inspires readers to become agents of change, driving progress in Nigerian society.
10. Fostering National Conversation: The Last Resort contributes to a national conversation about education, corruption, and social justice, encouraging Nigerians to engage with these critical issues and work towards positive change.
By addressing these pressing issues, The Last Resort is a timely and impactful work that resonates deeply with Nigerian society, inspiring change and promoting a better future for all.
This work is highly relevant to Nigeria's educational system, advocating for change and an end to victimization. The author's intention is to eliminate unnecessary fear and empower students to speak out against injustice, creating a ripple effect of change in the academic community. The play calls for a U-turn in the Nigerian educational system, addressing the malpractice that has led to the rejection of Nigerian certificates by other countries and damaging the nation's reputation.
Conclusion
In The Last Resort, Azunwo sheds light on the injustices plaguing Nigeria's academic sector, sparking a crucial conversation about the need for reform. Through Nhenome's story, the author encourages students to fight for their rights and demand a better education system. This timely wake up calls for reform and an end to corruption, resonating with the broader Nigerian society and inspiring change. Azunwo's The Last Resort tilts to the power of storytelling, highlighting the need for accountability and justice in our academic institutions.
***Noble Ikechukwu is currently a second-year student of the Department of Theatre and Film Studies, Rivers State University Ahoada Campus. He is a passionate young scholar whose desire is to make positive impact for the next generation to see.
Eziwho Emenike Azunwo. The Last Resort. Port Harcourt: Pearl Publishes Ltd, Port Harcourt, 2024.
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