Review of Eziwho Emenike Azunwo Ekwain Mkpe

Book Title: Ekwan - Мкре

(An Adaptation of Adi Wall's Tears of the Bereaved)

Author: Dr. Eziwho Emenike Azunwo

Reviewer: Sonny West Obubelebra

Publisher: Covenant Daystar Publishers

Pagination (number of pages) 39 pages

Year of Publication: 2024

Institution: Rivers State University, Port Harcourt,

Department of Theatre and Film Studies

A DETAILED SUMMARY OF THE PLAY: EKWNA MKPE

(An Adaptation of Adi Wali’s Tears of the Bereaved)

BY EZIWHO EMENIKE AZUNWO

INTRODUCTION

Ekwna Mkpe is a tragic drama written by Eziwho Emenike Azunwo as an adaptation of Adi Wali’s Tears of the Bereaved. The play is set in the traditional community of Amaede, where people’s lives are guided by customs, beliefs, respect for the gods, and obedience to the decisions of their ancestors. Through the experiences of Chinedu and his wife, Agwabunma, the playwright presents a touching story that explores the realities of sickness, death, love, sacrifice, destiny, and the unfair treatment of women in traditional society.

The play presents Chinedu as a man whose life has been overshadowed by a strange illness from childhood. Despite every effort made by his family and different traditional healers, his condition continues to grow worse. His wife, Agwabunma, remains by his side through every moment of pain and uncertainty. However, her greatest fear is not only losing her husband but also the terrible treatment she will receive as a widow if he dies. The customs of Amaede blame widows for their husbands’ deaths, deprive them of their rights, and expose them to humiliation and suffering.

As the story develops, the audience sees that the play is not simply about illness or death. It becomes a powerful criticism of harmful traditions that have existed for generations. Through the courage of characters like Ihugba and the wisdom of the village elders, the community begins to question customs that have caused unnecessary pain to women. Although Chinedu eventually dies, his death becomes the turning point that brings justice and freedom to widows in Amaede. The playwright therefore teaches that while death may sometimes be unavoidable, positive change can still emerge from painful experiences.

The play also reminds readers that no matter how powerful human beings may become, there are certain things that remain beyond human control. Akaire, who is believed to possess extraordinary spiritual powers, eventually discovers that destiny cannot always be changed. This lesson encourages humility and teaches that every human being must ultimately submit to the will of the Creator.

DETAILED SUMMARY OF THE PLAY

Ekwna Mkpe by Eziwho Emenike Azunwo is a tragic play that explores fate, love, death, culture, and social reform in the traditional community of Amaede. The story centres on Chinedu, a man who has suffered from a mysterious illness since childhood. His health constantly fluctuates between life and death, causing deep pain to his family, especially his devoted wife, Agwabunma. Although Chinedu has survived many attacks of the illness over the years, each episode leaves his family living in fear and uncertainty.

The play opens with the Narrator introducing the audience to the world of Amaede through poetic language and traditional drumming. He prepares the audience for a heartbreaking story by explaining that Chinedu has lived most of his life battling a strange sickness that refuses to let him either fully recover or die. As Chinedu lies critically ill, Agwabunma remains beside him, caring for him with love and hope despite her growing fear that he may not survive. Beyond losing her husband, she is also worried about the harsh treatment widows receive in her community, where women are often blamed for their husbands’ deaths and subjected to humiliating customs.

Ahuruchi, Chinedu’s sister, comforts Agwabunma and encourages her not to lose hope. Believing that every difficult situation has a solution, she decides to invite Akaire, the most respected native doctor in Amaede, whose reputation for healing and spiritual power is known throughout the land. Before Akaire arrives, the playwright briefly takes the audience into his shrine through a flashback, presenting him as a powerful traditional healer who is believed to possess extraordinary spiritual abilities. This scene raises the audience’s expectation that Chinedu may finally be saved.

While waiting for Akaire, Agwabunma receives support from Azuruike, Chinedu’s close friend, who encourages her to remain hopeful. However, Chinedu’s condition suddenly worsens, causing panic among family members and neighbours. Although everyone tries to revive him, fear spreads throughout the community as many believe that death is drawing near.

As the story progresses, the playwright shifts attention to the elders of Amaede, who discuss the suffering experienced by widows under the community’s traditional customs. They acknowledge that although these customs have existed for generations, they have caused unnecessary pain to innocent women. This discussion prepares the audience for the social reform that will take place later in the play.

Another important development occurs when Ihugba, the wife of Ohakna, appeals to her husband to reconsider the harsh widowhood practices in Amaede. Although she has not personally experienced such suffering, she speaks on behalf of all women, arguing that customs should protect people rather than oppress them. Her wisdom, compassion, and courage influence Ohakna to begin thinking about positive change within the community.

Eventually, Akaire arrives and performs several traditional rituals in an attempt to rescue Chinedu from the grip of death. His dramatic incantations, herbs, and spiritual displays briefly give the impression that Chinedu may recover. At one point, Chinedu regains consciousness, raising the hopes of everyone present. However, the improvement is only temporary. After a final spiritual struggle, Akaire realizes that Chinedu’s destiny cannot be changed. He sadly announces that Chinedu’s appointed time has come and that no human power can reverse the will of fate. Agwabunma is devastated by the loss of her husband, while the entire community mourns his death.

The play concludes with a gathering of the elders led by Ohakna. Having reflected on the suffering caused by existing customs, they announce the abolition of the oppressive widowhood practices in Amaede. The new decree allows widows and their children to inherit and enjoy the property they built with their husbands without interference from relatives. This historic decision is welcomed with joy by the women of the community and symbolizes a new era of justice, compassion, and equality.

Although Ekwna Mkpe ends with the tragic death of Chinedu, it also offers hope through social transformation. The playwright reminds the audience that while death and destiny may be beyond human control, society has the power to correct injustice and protect the dignity of its people. Through its powerful combination of tragedy and reform, the play encourages love, compassion, respect for human life, and the courage to abandon harmful traditions while preserving valuable cultural heritage.

1. CHARACTER ANALYSIS

NARRATOR

The Narrator is one of the most important characters in Ekwna Mkpe. Although he does not actively participate in the events of the play, he serves as the bridge between the audience and the story. He introduces the setting, explains the background of the characters, and interprets important events as they unfold. Through his poetic language and thoughtful comments, he prepares the audience emotionally for the tragedy ahead while also explaining the beliefs and traditions of the Amaede people.

Beyond telling the story, the Narrator represents the playwright’s voice. He comments on themes such as fate, death, injustice, and the suffering of women, helping the audience understand the deeper meaning of the play. His presence makes the dramatic action easier to follow and strengthens the emotional impact of the story.

AGWABUNMA

Agwabunma is the central female character and the emotional heart of the play. She is portrayed as a devoted, faithful, and compassionate wife who remains beside her husband throughout his long illness. Despite the pain, fear, and uncertainty she experiences, she never abandons Chinedu or loses hope that he will recover. Her determination to seek every possible cure demonstrates the depth of her love and commitment.

Apart from grieving over her husband’s illness, Agwabunma also fears the harsh widowhood customs of Amaede, where women are often blamed for their husbands’ deaths and deprived of their dignity. Through her suffering, the playwright exposes the injustice faced by many widows in traditional society. Agwabunma therefore symbolizes unconditional love, sacrifice, endurance, and the struggle for justice and compassion.

CHINEDU

Chinedu is the tragic hero of the play. From childhood, he suffers from a mysterious illness that constantly places him between life and death. Although he struggles to survive and receives help from his family and traditional healers, he eventually dies because his destiny cannot be changed. His life illustrates the reality that some human experiences are beyond human control.

Chinedu is portrayed as patient, courageous, and resilient despite his constant suffering. Rather than being remembered only for his illness, he becomes a symbol of human vulnerability and the limitations of human power. Through his character, the playwright reminds the audience that no amount of strength, wealth, or spiritual knowledge can completely overcome fate.

AHURUCHI

Ahuruchi is Chinedu’s caring and supportive elder sister. She remains calm during difficult moments and constantly encourages Agwabunma not to lose hope. Instead of giving in to fear, she searches for solutions and takes the important step of inviting Akaire to help save her brother. Her optimism and practical approach make her an important source of strength within the family.

Ahuruchi also demonstrates the importance of family unity and responsibility. She stands by both her brother and her sister-in-law throughout the crisis, showing genuine concern for their well-being. Her character represents loyalty, hope, and the willingness to support loved ones during periods of suffering.

AKAIRE

Akaire is the famous native doctor whose reputation for spiritual power spreads throughout Amaede. Before he appears, he is described as a fearless healer capable of confronting death itself. His arrival raises the hopes of both the characters and the audience that Chinedu’s life can still be saved.

Despite his confidence and remarkable display of rituals and incantations, Akaire is ultimately unable to change Chinedu’s destiny. His failure does not make him weak; rather, it highlights the limitations of human knowledge and spiritual power. Through Akaire, the playwright teaches that no individual, regardless of skill or reputation, has absolute control over life and death. His character reinforces one of the central messages of the play: that destiny and the will of the Creator are greater than human effort.

AZURUIKE

Azuruike is Chinedu’s loyal friend and one of the few characters who remains calm during moments of crisis. Although he often uses humour to lighten tense situations, he is deeply concerned about Chinedu’s health and offers constant encouragement to Agwabunma. His presence provides emotional support to the family and reminds the audience of the importance of true friendship during difficult times.

Azuruike is also wise and observant. He understands the traditions of Amaede and believes in Akaire’s abilities, yet he remains realistic about the uncertainty surrounding Chinedu’s condition. Through his words and actions, the playwright presents him as a symbol of loyalty, hope, and unwavering friendship.

EZIKA

Ezika is a minor character who represents the ordinary members of the Amaede community. He rushes to Chinedu’s house when he hears the cries of distress, showing the communal spirit that exists among the villagers. Like many others, he becomes frightened by the strange spiritual events surrounding Chinedu’s illness and eventually leaves in fear.

Although his role is brief, Ezika helps to portray the emotions and beliefs of the community. His reactions reflect the fear, uncertainty, and respect that the people have for spiritual matters.

OGONDA

Ogonda is another compassionate member of the community who responds immediately when Chinedu’s condition worsens. She joins others in trying to revive him by checking his pulse and giving practical instructions. Her actions demonstrate kindness, concern, and the communal responsibility that characterizes traditional African society.

Through Ogonda, the playwright shows that people often come together in times of hardship to support one another. Although her efforts cannot prevent Chinedu’s death, they emphasize the values of unity and compassion.

ACHO

Acho is one of the elders of Amaede who participates in the discussion about the treatment of widows. At first, he appears to accept the existing customs as normal because they have been practiced for generations. However, as the discussion progresses, he begins to appreciate the need for change and eventually supports the proposed reforms.

His character represents individuals who are willing to rethink long-held beliefs when they recognize the suffering those beliefs cause. Acho demonstrates that positive change often begins with an open mind.

IKANEZI

Ikanezi is an experienced elder who openly questions the harsh widowhood customs practiced in Amaede. Unlike those who blindly defend tradition, he acknowledges that some customs have become unfair and should be reviewed. His wisdom and compassion make him one of the first voices advocating justice for women.

Through Ikanezi, the playwright suggests that true leadership involves protecting the weak and correcting injustice rather than preserving harmful traditions simply because they are old.

OBINUCHI

Obinuchi is quiet, thoughtful, and deeply reflective. Although he speaks less than the other elders, his words carry great weight whenever he contributes to discussions. He carefully observes the suffering of widows and supports the idea of seeking a better future for the community.

His character shows that wisdom is not measured by how much a person speaks but by the quality of what they say. He represents thoughtful leadership, maturity, and sound judgment.

IHUGBA

Ihugba is one of the strongest and most admirable characters in the play. As the wife of Ohakna, she uses wisdom, humility, and persuasion to advocate for the rights of women. Although she is not personally affected by widowhood, she identifies with the suffering of other women and courageously speaks on their behalf.

Rather than confronting her husband with anger, Ihugba respectfully presents her concerns and appeals to his sense of justice. Her compassion and determination eventually influence the decision to abolish the oppressive widowhood customs. She symbolizes courage, selflessness, wisdom, and the power of peaceful dialogue in bringing about social change.

OHAKNA

Ohakna is the traditional ruler and spiritual leader of Amaede. He is respected for his wisdom and authority and is responsible for making decisions that affect the entire community. Initially, he upholds the customs of his ancestors, but after listening to Ihugba and reflecting on the suffering of women, he recognizes the need for reform.

His decision to abolish the harmful widowhood practices demonstrates that a good leader is willing to adapt to changing realities while preserving the valuable aspects of tradition. Through Ohakna, the playwright emphasizes that true leadership requires wisdom, compassion, fairness, and the courage to make difficult but necessary decisions.

THE ELDERS AND THE COMMUNITY

The elders and the people of Amaede represent the collective voice of society. They preserve the customs and traditions of the community but also show a willingness to embrace positive change when they realize that certain practices are unjust. Their acceptance of Ohakna’s reforms marks an important turning point in the play.

Collectively, these characters illustrate how meaningful social transformation can only occur when both leaders and ordinary members of society work together. Their unity at the end of the play symbolizes hope, justice, and a brighter future for generations to come.

MAJOR THEMES

FATE AND DESTINY

One of the central themes in Ekwna Mkpe is fate and destiny. The play presents the idea that some events in life are beyond human control, no matter the effort made to prevent them. Chinedu suffers from a mysterious illness from childhood, and despite the prayers, herbal treatments, and the intervention of the famous native doctor, Akaire, he eventually dies. His death shows that there are situations where human strength, knowledge, and power cannot change what has already been destined. The playwright reminds the audience that life and death ultimately belong to God, and no human being can completely control them.

LOVE AND SACRIFICE

The play also explores the theme of love and sacrifice through the relationship between Chinedu and his wife, Agwabunma. Throughout Chinedu’s illness, Agwabunma remains faithful and devoted. She spends all her time caring for him, searches everywhere for a cure, and refuses to lose hope even when others begin to expect the worst. Her willingness to endure emotional pain and personal suffering for her husband demonstrates the depth of true love. The playwright uses her character to show that genuine love is measured by commitment and sacrifice, especially during difficult times.

THE REALITY OF DEATH

Death is presented as an unavoidable part of human existence. From the beginning of the play, Chinedu lives under the constant shadow of death, and every illness raises fear among his family and friends. Although everyone desperately wishes to save him, death eventually triumphs. The play teaches that no matter how powerful, wealthy, or respected a person may be, death remains a reality that every human being must one day face. This theme encourages people to value life while accepting its limitations.

THE LIMITATION OF HUMAN POWER

The playwright emphasizes that human power has limits. Akaire is introduced as a legendary native doctor whose reputation makes people believe he can overcome any spiritual challenge. However, despite his confidence, rituals, and knowledge, he cannot save Chinedu. His failure shows that no individual possesses absolute power. The play teaches that human abilities, whether physical, spiritual, or intellectual, cannot always overcome the will of the Creator or the forces of destiny.

CULTURAL BELIEFS AND TRADITION

Traditional beliefs play an important role throughout the play. The people of Amaede rely heavily on herbal medicine, native doctors, rituals, and the guidance of the gods whenever they face serious problems. These cultural practices shape their decisions and way of life. At the same time, the playwright does not completely condemn these traditions but instead presents both their strengths and their limitations. Through this balanced presentation, the audience is encouraged to appreciate culture while recognizing that not every tradition should remain unchanged.

THE OPPRESSION OF WOMEN

Another important theme is the unfair treatment of women, especially widows. Agwabunma’s greatest fear is not only losing her husband but also facing the harsh customs that blame widows for their husbands’ deaths and deny them their rights. Through conversations among the elders and the concerns raised by Ihugba, the playwright exposes the emotional and social suffering many women experience because of outdated cultural practices. This theme highlights the need for justice, compassion, and respect for women in society.

SOCIAL CHANGE AND REFORM

The play ends on a hopeful note by promoting positive social change. Influenced by the wisdom of Ihugba and the growing awareness among the elders, Ohakna announces the abolition of harmful widowhood practices in Amaede. This decision symbolizes progress and demonstrates that traditions can be reviewed and improved without losing cultural identity. The playwright suggests that a good society is one that preserves valuable customs while abandoning practices that promote injustice and human suffering.

HOPE IN THE MIDST OF SUFFERING

Although the play is largely tragic, it also communicates the importance of hope. Agwabunma continues to believe that her husband can recover even when the situation appears hopeless. Likewise, the eventual reform of the village’s customs shows that positive change can emerge from painful experiences. Through this message, the playwright encourages perseverance, faith, and the belief that suffering can sometimes lead to a better future.

DRAMATIC TECHNIQUES

NARRATION

One of the most outstanding dramatic techniques in Ekwna Mkpe is narration. The Narrator serves as the link between the audience and the events of the play. He introduces the story, explains the background of important characters, comments on unfolding events, and prepares the audience emotionally for what is to come. His frequent appearance helps the audience understand the customs, beliefs, and values of the Amaede people. Through his observations, the playwright also expresses his views on fate, death, injustice, and the treatment of women.

FLASHBACK

The playwright uses flashback to provide important information about Akaire before he appears in Chinedu’s house. Instead of introducing him immediately, the audience is taken into his shrine where his past achievements and extraordinary reputation are revealed. This technique builds curiosity and creates high expectations about his ability to save Chinedu. However, his eventual failure makes the tragic ending even more powerful and reinforces the message that destiny cannot always be changed.

SUSPENSE

Suspense is sustained throughout the play, keeping the audience eager to know what will happen next. Chinedu’s repeated collapse, the delay in Akaire’s arrival, the frightening rituals, and the temporary signs of recovery all create uncertainty. Even after Chinedu briefly regains consciousness, the audience remains unsure whether he will survive. This continuous tension maintains interest until the final revelation of his death.

DRAMATIC IRONY

The playwright also employs dramatic irony. While Agwabunma and other characters firmly believe that Akaire will save Chinedu, the Narrator repeatedly hints that Chinedu’s fate may already be sealed. The audience is therefore made aware that the situation may not end as the characters expect. This difference between the audience’s understanding and the characters’ hope increases the emotional impact of the tragedy.

SYMBOLISM

Several objects and events in the play carry symbolic meanings. Chinedu’s lifelong illness symbolizes the burden of unavoidable fate and the fragility of human life. Akaire represents human confidence and the limits of traditional power, while Agwabunma symbolizes unconditional love, endurance, and the suffering of many African women. Chinedu’s death becomes a symbol of the fact that human beings cannot always overcome destiny, while the abolition of oppressive widowhood customs symbolizes hope, justice, and social progress.

DRUMMING, MUSIC, AND DANCE

Traditional drumming, music, and dance play significant roles in developing the mood of the play. Slow drumming accompanies scenes of sorrow and grief, while loud and violent drumming creates fear, suspense, and spiritual tension during Akaire’s rituals. Songs and dances are also used during ceremonial and communal scenes to reflect African cultural traditions and make the performance more lively and realistic. These elements help communicate emotions even without dialogue.

PROVERBS AND FIGURATIVE EXPRESSIONS

The dialogue is enriched with numerous proverbs, metaphors, and symbolic expressions that reflect African oral tradition. Characters often speak in wise sayings instead of direct statements, making their conversations more meaningful and culturally authentic. These expressions also reveal the wisdom, beliefs, and worldview of the people of Amaede while adding beauty to the language of the play.

DIALOGUE

Dialogue is the primary means through which the story develops. The conversations between Agwabunma and Ahuruchi reveal the family’s pain, while the discussions among the elders expose the injustice of traditional widowhood practices. The exchanges between Ihugba and Ohakna eventually lead to the transformation of the community. Through natural conversations, the playwright develops the plot, reveals character traits, and presents the major themes of the play.

TRAGEDY

Ekwna Mkpe is essentially a tragic drama because it revolves around the suffering and eventual death of the central character. Despite every effort made to save Chinedu, he dies, leaving his family in deep sorrow. However, unlike many tragedies that end in complete hopelessness, the playwright introduces social reform at the end of the play. This balance of tragedy and hope gives the audience both emotional satisfaction and a meaningful lesson about life and society.

FORESHADOWING

The playwright frequently foreshadows future events through the Narrator’s comments, Chinedu’s worsening condition, and the fearful reactions of other characters. From the opening scenes, the audience senses that Chinedu’s illness may end in death. These subtle hints prepare the audience for the tragic climax without revealing everything too early, making the conclusion both believable and emotionally moving.

LANGUAGE AND STYLE

SIMPLE AND EXPRESSIVE LANGUAGE

The language of Ekwna Mkpe is simple, clear, and easy to understand, making the play accessible to both educated and uneducated audiences. Although the playwright occasionally uses poetic expressions, the dialogue remains natural and conversational. This simplicity allows the audience to connect easily with the characters and understand the emotions, conflicts, and messages conveyed in the play.

PROVERBS AND FIGURATIVE EXPRESSIONS

The playwright makes effective use of proverbs, metaphors, and other figurative expressions to reflect the wisdom and worldview of the Amaede people. These expressions enrich the dialogue, preserve African oral tradition, and make the conversations more meaningful. They also reveal the cultural values of the community and add depth to the characters’ speeches.

POETIC AND SYMBOLIC STYLE

The play contains several poetic and symbolic expressions, especially in the speeches of the Narrator and Akaire. Their language creates vivid mental images and heightens the emotional and spiritual atmosphere of the play. Symbols such as Chinedu’s illness, Akaire’s rituals, and the final abolition of oppressive customs represent larger ideas about fate, human limitation, justice, and social transformation.

DIALOGUE

Dialogue is the major style through which the story unfolds. The conversations between characters reveal their personalities, develop the plot, and communicate the major themes of the play. The dialogue also reflects the communal lifestyle of the Amaede people, where important issues are discussed collectively before decisions are made.

TRADITIONAL PERFORMANCE ELEMENTS

The playwright successfully incorporates traditional African performance elements such as drumming, songs, dances, chants, and ritual performances. These elements create suspense, express emotions, and strengthen the cultural identity of the play. They also make the performance lively and visually engaging while emphasizing the spiritual beliefs of the community.

MORAL LESSONS

Ekwna Mkpe teaches several important lessons about life and society. One of its major lessons is that human beings should recognise the limits of their power. No matter how skilled or influential a person may be, life and death ultimately remain in the hands of the Creator.

The play also teaches the importance of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. Agwabunma’s unwavering devotion to Chinedu demonstrates that genuine love is shown through commitment, patience, and support during difficult times rather than only during moments of happiness.

Another important lesson is the need to challenge harmful traditions. While culture should be respected and preserved, customs that promote injustice or cause unnecessary suffering should be reviewed and reformed. The abolition of the oppressive widowhood practices shows that societies grow stronger when they embrace justice, compassion, and equality.

The play further emphasizes the value of good leadership. Through Ohakna’s willingness to listen, reflect, and introduce positive change, the playwright shows that true leaders place the welfare of their people above personal or traditional interests.

Finally, Ekwna Mkpe encourages unity, compassion, and mutual support. The concern shown by family members, friends, and neighbours during Chinedu’s illness reminds the audience that people should stand by one another in times of hardship.

CONCLUSION

Ekwna Mkpe is a powerful tragic play that examines the realities of fate, death, love, tradition, and social justice within the African society. Through the tragic story of Chinedu and the unwavering devotion of Agwabunma, the playwright explores the limits of human effort and the inevitability of destiny. At the same time, the play exposes the suffering caused by harmful cultural practices, particularly those affecting widows, and advocates for positive social change.

The play successfully combines traditional African beliefs, rich cultural performances, and compelling dramatic techniques to deliver timeless lessons about humanity, compassion, and justice. Although Chinedu’s death brings sorrow, the reform of the widowhood customs offers hope and demonstrates that societies can preserve their cultural identity while embracing positive change.

In conclusion, Ekwna Mkpe is not only a story of personal tragedy but also a call for empathy, fairness, and responsible leadership. Its enduring message is that while human beings cannot always change destiny, they can change their attitudes, customs, and treatment of one another to build a more just and compassionate society.