Exploring the Unique Role of Dramatic Literature as Catalyst for National Integration and Peace: Lessons from Ahmed Yarima’s Pari

Abstract

The high level of anxiety occasioned by prevailing realities in the society is so alarming, as it affects almost every aspect of life. Nigeria being a multi-cultural nation with too many ethnic diversities and interest, often experience recurring social-political issues, agitations and other conflict situations. Hence, the unity, development and peace of our nation have come under serious threat as a result of prevailing anxiety. The paper, which highlights the challenges of conflict situations and the need for peaceful resolutions, using Ahmed Yarima’s Pari as paradigm, x-rays the importance of dramatic literature in conscientising the society towards national integration and stability. It submits that dramatic literature should be encouraged as a vital means of transmitting important information and awareness objectives. It concludes that dramatic literature will go a long way in reshaping and re-engineering the society towards lasting peace and unity; and recommends that more dramatic play texts exposing the dangers and effects of violence, and re-educating the populace, especially youths on terrorism eradication be encouraged and made available in educational environments and the society at large in driving desirable attitudinal change.