George Akume, Nigeria's Secretary to the Government of the Federation, has a message for the country's writers: say what needs to be said, but choose your words with care.
Speaking to authors, Akume encouraged them to speak frankly about Nigeria's challenges. He asked that they use their platforms to promote understanding and push for constructive solutions, rather than content that could stir up violence.
It is a tension as old as African literature itself. The writer's job has always been to hold power to account, and that work matters now as much as ever. The question is what happens when the pen cuts a little too deep.
Originally published by Premium Times.