LEADERSHIP AND THE NIGERIAN NATION: A STRATEGY FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AS REFLECTED IN FEMI OSOFISAN’S MOROUNTODUN

ABSTRACT Every nation rises and falls with leadership. The burden of ill-fated leadership in the sub- Saharan African terrain has posed a problem over the centuries, hence the need to engage critical literary studies that can transform citizens and inspire change for progress. Nigeria, the acclaimed giant of Africa seems clearly underdeveloped even after decades of Colonial rule, Military Dictatorship and now, Democratic Leadership; has not recorded progressive economic and social change but seems to undergo a downward spiral. This study titled, “Leadership and the Nigerian Nation: A Strategy for Youth Development as reflected in Femi Osofisan’s Morountodun exposes the flaws of egoistical and individualistic interests which often go against the consciences of the led, and critiques the socio-political anomalies in the Leadership structure in Nigeria. The primary data collected from the literary text Morountodun which is subjected to critical Textual Investigation in a Qualitative Analysis. Theorizing from Karl Marx’s theory, the study reveals class struggles and conflicts and also the poignant socio-political predicaments in human society. This study advocates for the inclusion of youths in leadership as have been marginalized for too long in the leadership sphere, and so should be given a place to offer fresh and innovative solutions to the Nation’s various dilemmas. In conclusion, the cultural and ideological tilts prompt the use of literary materials as catalyst for change and positive growth of a nation. Keywords: Leadership, Class Struggle, Youth Development