THEME OF EXPLOITATION AND OPPRESSION IN THE NOVEL OF LERE ADEYEMI’S AKUKO GAGARA

Abstract

Exploitation and oppression are social illnesses, which are well pronounced in the Nigerian political system and public sector. The belief is that, leaders in position of power, or, at the helm of affairs are those who usually make it a habit to exploit the citizens and use corrupt practices to enrich themselves. This study’s main objective was to see how exploitation and oppression can be sources of conflict. It also aimed to suggest remedial measures to the anomalies. This paper discussed the theme of exploitation and oppression as sources of conflict in Lere Adeyemi’s novel namely Akuko Gagara (2001). The research methodology adopted for this study was descriptive, using classical Marxist theory as postulated by Karl Marx and his followers. The study has revealed, among other things, tricks used by the political leaders to perpetually oppress the masses. It also revealed that, there is strength in unity. The oppressed could be liberated from oppression only if they were united and determined to fight for their rights and freedom. The major findings of the paper included that, truth and fairness were tools to free the oppressed from the hand of the exploiter and oppressor. Another finding was that apart from the use of negative methods such as, terrorism, kidnapping and violence which are now rampant in our society in fighting the oppressors, other positive method like dialogue can be adopted to fight for freedom from the hands of exploiters and oppressors. The study concluded that unless the under-privileged in the society rose to fight oppression, the oppressor would continue to dominate the scene. It also recommended that literature could be used to fight corrupt leaders.