Okere, ISOA DG Unveils Nigeria’s Numerous Challenges
By: Gele Agbai
Nigeria faces a multitude of social, economic, political, security, and religious issues. These form the central theme of the satirical work ‘Once Upon A Day’ authored by Dr. Ethelbert Okere, an acclaimed writer and the Director General of the Imo State Orientation Agency (ISOA).
This book, which marks Okere’s 20th publication, was publicly presented as part of his birthday celebration on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Rockview Hotel in Owerri, Imo State, under the auspices of the Owerri Literary Ensemble.
The book addresses various topics including political bargaining, the “Japa syndrome,” fabricated miracles, and political trickery. The event, being a book presentation, drew primarily intellectuals and scholars, with academics and media personalities attending in large numbers. Notable attendees included Professors Vitalis Orikeze Ajumbe, Eugene Opara, Jude Nzeako, the Director General of the Imo State Investment Promotion Agency, and others from the academic community.
The traditional institution was represented by His Royal Highness Eze Dr. Eme Njoku, the traditional ruler of Nguru-Umuowa Autonomous Community in Ngor/Okpala Local Government Area. Media figures in attendance included Barr Kezie Ogaziechi, a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs; Chief Fidel Onyeneke, Secretary of Owerri West Local Government Council; Kennedy Eweama; Chris Ekweghariri; and Emma Okala Okere.
Chris Ekweghariri and Emma Okala Okere served as comperes at the ceremony, which was presided over by the former Governor of Imo State, Dr. Ikedi Ohakim, represented by Barr. Willie Amadi.
Other notable attendees included Dr. Chima Matthew Amadi, a governorship hopeful represented by Chief Henry Onwukwe; Chief Soronnadi Njoku, a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice; Mrs. Chika Ibekwe, Chairman of Ngor Okpala Local Government Council; Okenze Sylvester Obinna; and Chief Val Okere, widely recognized as Amadioha Ngor Okpala.
The attendees praised the author’s prolific mind, which enables him to produce books at an impressive pace.
Dr. Ohakim, speaking through his representative Barr. Willie Amadi, opened the event with commendations, noting that he discovered Okere’s intellectual depth when the author served as a resource person for his book, ‘Second Chance.’
He also highlighted Okere’s unassuming nature and integrity, stating that his convictions are not influenced by financial considerations. Okere had previously served as Special Adviser on Public Enlightenment and Documentary during the Ohakim administration. Amadi acknowledged that Okere, along with the late Pini Jason and Ogaziechi, formed the intellectual powerhouse of the administration.
He expressed regret that the Igbo of the South East seldom recognize and celebrate their intellectuals, unlike the Yoruba of the South West.
The book’s reviewer, Professor Protus Nathan Uzorma of the Department of Philosophy at the University of Uyo, praised Okere for courageously addressing the key figures involved in Nigeria’s challenges. He expressed admiration for the author’s style but noted the absence of proposed solutions as a minor drawback.
In Nigeria, many citizens seek opportunities abroad, perceiving foreign countries as offering more promising prospects than their own. Those who remain in Nigeria often lack the resources to emigrate or are making plans to do so, a phenomenon colloquially known as “japa.” The audience was amused by a reading of Episode Three by Gele Agbai, Editor-in-Chief of National Newsbreak Newspaper, and Marshall Opara, a staff member of ISOA. This episode features a conversation between two Nigerians preparing to leave the country, even considering destinations in the Middle East such as Iran and Iraq.
While Okere addresses serious issues hindering Nigeria’s progress with humor, readers are reminded not to be swayed by the comedic elements but to take action to reclaim their country.
The event’s highlights included the presentation of a life-size hand-drawn portrait of the author by ISOA staff members, a video presentation of Okere’s writing journey, and the inauguration of the Owerri Literary Ensemble.
