Writers, students and people of goodwill converged on Wednesday to celebrate life, legacy and times of one of Africa’s greatest poets, the late John Peppe Clark, at Primegate International Academy, Abuja.
Gatekeepers News reports that at the maiden J. P. Clark Memorial Reading, participants were lectured on the contributions of writers to nation-building and how everyone could write to tell a story, preserve culture and positively impact society while making money at the same.
Speaking at the occasion, Prof. Mabel Evwierhoma, a Regular Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Letters, gave a concise insight into the characters of early and contemporary Nigerian writers. She maintained that writers, through writing, play a major role in changing any society.
In their separate presentations, Salamatu Sule, a poet and book reviewer; and Amb. Loise Adams, a writer and literary enthusiast, extolled the sociopolitical virtues in J. P. Clark’s writings. While Salamatu encouraged participants to read, write, develop the society and make money in the process, Amb. Lois urged students to start writing about things that matter to them and society.
Chief Taiwo Akerele, the Chairman, Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Abuja chapter, who thanked the attendees for making it to the event, reiterated the Association’s commitment towards building a community of young and old writers who are inspired to addressing the socioeconomic, sociopolitical and environmental challenges confronting their respective communities. He expressed his delight over performances put by students in attendance.
A statement made available by the ANA Publicity Secretary in Abuja, Uthman Qasim, noted that the highlights of the event include lecture presentations, creative and art performances, presentation of gifts and other activities.
The occasion was graced by some other personalities including Umar Yo Giza, Dame Joan Oji, PhD, Head of Operation, Primegate International Academy, Chisom Uzoigwe, students from different schools in Abuja and other distinguished guests.
J. P. Clark Memorial event which is an initiative of the Association of Nigerian Authors to celebrate John Peppe Clark is scheduled to hold in three Nigerian states: Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.
