The Vicissitudes of Democracy in Nigeria: Role of the Poet

Abstract

Overtime, juxtaposing poetry and democracy has come to more like an oxymoron. Yet the twosome is connected, with each having a profound influence on the other. In Nigeria, democracy has been a bumpy ride from its nascent stages to the present day. The vicissitudes that underlie the Nigerian political arena are observed and commented on by critics from different occupations. This paper explores some roles of poets in helping to shape Nigeria's democracy by articulating the voice of the people, nurturing civic values, bridging divides and fostering unity, and challenging authority and holding power accountable. This was achieved by highlighting relevant works of historical and contemporary poets such as Douglas Malloch, Gabriel Okara, Rome Aboh, Peace Longdet and Nathanael Noah. In the quest for true democracy, the voice of the poet in Nigeria is a force to reckon with. A new generation of Nigerian poets are to speak boldly or true democracy even as the older generation of poets relinquishes the reigns.