Postcolonial Feminism in Selected Contemporary Nigerian Novels

Abstract

This paper explores postcolonial feminism in selected contemporary Nigerian novels, emphasising the deconstruction of the traditional roles assigned to women. It evaluates the exploitation and marginalisation of women within patriarchal structures and highlights their agency, contributions, and transformations. The theoretical framework is grounded in postcolonial feminism as advocated by Ofelia Schutte (1998). The study employs content analysis methodology showcasing how education and self-awareness redefine the image of the postcolonial woman. Findings reveal that Adimora-Ezeigbo’s works highlight the achievements and struggles of women within patriarchal cultures, raising awareness about gender-based injustices. She portrays women’s conditions by creating consciousness of the psychological and physical injuries perpetrated by the patriarchal structures, and the need for reformation. She posits that the postcolonial females that could make their decisions not only because they could get married, give birth and nurture children, but because they have what it takes –education – to influence their world and cultures with satisfaction.  She does this through the stories of real/fictional women/other activists by employing the daily language of her culture. She instigates a revolution in women’s health care system, their love lives/ sexual desires, and above, education as the parameter for total liberation of the new Nigerian woman. The main characters -  Nneoma and Ginika -  transcend traditional gender norms and advocate for women’s empowerment in areas such as education, and personal agency. The study concludes that postcolonial feminism serves as a platform for the social mobilisation and enlightenment of the marginalised women, positioning them as integral to national and cultural development.