POLITICS AND CHANGE IN NIGERIAN DRAMA: A STUDY OF NNANAKE EKEKE’S POLITICS AFRESH

ABSTRACT Plays by playwrights seek to reflect on issues of concern in our society, replicating societal problems and at the same time proffering solutions. Many themes of plays in the contemporary time are replications of different problems of the society, be it social, economic, moral, traditional or political. Nnanake Ekeke skillfully used the platform of drama to expose and ridicule the prevalence, pervasiveness and debilitating effects of politics and corruption as social vices in Nigeria. Nnanake in his works, do not support corruption, injustice and oppression in the society. The study adopts qualitative research methodology. This study adopts the Marxist sociological theory as its theoretical framework. This study exerts significance based on the following reasons, it shall add new knowledge on the Nigerian drama. This study will expose the relevance of drama addressing the Nigerian political quagmire. The intersection of politics and change in Nigerian drama serves as a compelling lens through which to examine societal transformations. Nigerian playwrights have historically utilized their craft to critique political systems, challenge corruption, and advocate for social justice. Nnanake Ekeke’s Politics Afresh dramatizes different aspects of the Nigerian culture ranging from fanaticism, treachery, thuggery, betrayal, greed, corruption, to deception, foolery and political victimization, in an attempt to advocate for positive change. The study in its findings reveals that playwright can use their plays to reflect on political issues that need to be changed and therefore recommends the use of political plays to initiate a change process in the Nigerian political system.