Context

Question 1

Sani Abacha

Answer 1

-The government of Nigeria depicted in the novel is likely based on the rule of Sani Abacha from 1993-1998
-Military dictator who orchestrated the last successful military coup in Nigeria
-Was known worldwide for his flagrant disregard for human rights, assassinating political dissidents and imprisoning anyone who spoke out. E.g. Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, a human rights activist who was sentenced to life imprisonment.

Question 2

Ken Saro-Wiwa

Answer 2

-Activist who defended environmental and human rights for Ogoni people in Nigeria
-Was hanged by the Sani-Abacha government.

Question 3

Colonial History

Answer 3

-The colonial period in Nigeria lasted 60 years from 1900 to 1960
-Missionaries were used to their utmost effectiveness, as depicted in ‘Things Fall Apart’.
-The effects of this are seen in Nigeria today, with almost half of the population being Christian.