“Things Fall Apart” is a novel by the celebrated Nigerian author Chinua Achebe, published in 1958. The novel portrays the complexities of tribal life in pre-colonial Nigeria and the impact of British colonialism on the social and cultural life of Nigeria. Using the story of Okonkwo, we can draw similarities between how things were falling apart in pre-colonial Nigeria and how the country is falling apart in modern times.
Terrorism
One of the most prominent ways in which things are falling apart in Nigeria is through the issue of terrorism. Terrorism, particularly the activities of Boko Haram, has killed thousands of people and displaced millions in Nigeria, especially in the Northeast region. The novel hints at Okonkwo’s struggle to deal with the arrival of white men, missionaries and colonialists in his village. White people came with a new religion, a new language, and a new way of life, disrupting the pre-existing order. This eventually led to a loss of identity, culture, and tradition. Similarly, terrorism in Nigeria has led to the loss of lives as well as the destruction of property and infrastructure. Further leading to chaos and a loss of direction for the nation.
Economic Crisis
The economic situation in Nigeria also bears similarities to the state of things in pre-colonial Nigeria as seen in Things Fall Apart. Okonkwo is a successful farmer and wrestler, who believes in the virtues of hard work, discipline, and enterprise. However, he finds himself struggling to keep up with a changing society. Particularly a new way of life that puts a premium on education, trade, and commerce. Similarly, in contemporary Nigeria, the country is grappling with an economic crisis that has resulted in hyperinflation and currency devaluation. It has also led to a sharp decline in the standard of living in the country. Nigeria has yet to fully harness its vast natural resources, and corruption and mismanagement have contributed to the nation’s economic woes.
Leadership and Governance
The theme of leadership and governance is another pertinent issue in both the novel and contemporary Nigeria. The Igbo society in which Okonkwo lived was headed by the traditional ruler or ‘Obi‘. He was responsible for the welfare of the people and the maintenance of law and order. However, the introduction of colonialism in Nigeria disrupted traditional modes of governance. Leading to a leadership crisis and a sense of disillusionment with the established order. Similarly, in modern-day Nigeria, the country experiences a severe leadership deficit. The interests of politicians and the wealthy few are put ahead of the welfare of the people. Corruption and nepotism have become commonplace in public service, leading to an erosion of public trust and a sense of despair among many citizens.
Gender Inequality
The issue of gender inequality remains a persistent problem in both pre-colonial Nigeria and contemporary Nigeria. Things Fall Apart portrays a patriarchal society where women were relegated to the background and were not allowed to participate in decision-making or engage in activities outside the home. Although the situation had improved somewhat in modern-day Nigeria, women are still largely underrepresented in governance, education, and economic sectors. Women continue to be marginalized and face discrimination based on gender, which has a negative effect on the country’s development.
The struggle for national unity and identity
Another similarity between pre-colonial Nigeria and contemporary Nigeria is the struggle for national unity and identity. The country is made up of over 250 ethnic groups, each with its distinct culture, language, and belief systems. These differences have often led to division, mistrust, and conflict among different groups. Things Fall Apart also portrays this rivalry and tension between various villages and clans in pre-colonial Nigeria. Despite several efforts at promoting national unity and cohesion, Nigeria still grapples with ethnic and religious divisions that have led to violence and insecurity in the country.
In conclusion, Things Fall Apart presents a powerful critique of the impact of colonialism on pre-colonial Nigeria. By extension, it provides a lens through which to view the current state of the nation. Although Nigeria has made significant progress in terms of modernization, the country still faces several challenges, including terrorism, economic woes, leadership crises, gender inequality, and tribal rivalry. However, the novel also offers a ray of hope, that through hard work and resilience, Nigeria can overcome its challenges and become a prosperous and united nation.
