Journal of Development Communication And Applied Theatre

RE-INVENTING TRUE DEMOCRATIC UNITY IN NIGERIA: A MYTHOPOEIC ANALYSIS OF BEN BINEBAI'S IF NOT…A PLAY OF THE GODS

Joyce Austen Onyekuru Ph.D — 2025-05-09

Democracy is often described as one of the best systems of government. African countries have embraced democracy as this system of government tends to benefit the people more than military regimes or any other system of government. Nigeria, for instance, jettisoned British monarchical rule and embraced democratic governance following her independence in October 1960. Since then, Nigerian democracy has witnessed a lot of upheavals as successive governments have struggled to create a sense of national unity in a complex country with over 250 ethnic groups and different political leanings, cultural and religious biases. It is these dichotomies coupled with the hydra headed corruption in the Nigerian body polity that have hampered the actualization of true and genuine democracy as evident in the works of some Nigerian Playwrights who have been preoccupied with the oppressive attitude of the leaders and the helplessness/gullibility of the people in their creative works. This study is an account of Benedict Binebai's view towards re-inventing true democratic unity in Nigeria by effectively deploying myths towards the service of society in his thought provoking play, If Not… A play of the gods. The study adopted new historicism as its theoretical framework and descriptive methodology of investigation. The study revealed that true democratic unity can be achieved through a reawakened consciousness of the status quo of traditional deities in fostering national unity which the concept of federal character has failed to achieve.

INTEGRATING INDIGENOUS HERBS AS COSMETICS IN FILMMAKING AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN AKWA IBOM STATE

Stephen UMOH, Ph.D — 2025-05-09

The use of indigenous components to embellish artistic works has gained much popularity among the people of Akwa Ibom State and the film industry in Nigeria. The films are entertaining and serve as lucrative medium, encompassing various units of identifiable craft that a practitioner can use to promote entrepreneurship. This has prompted the production of film cosmetics from traditional herbs for film making in the State. However, these indigenous products are yet to be fully integrated into the mainstream of the state's economy. Anchored on Joseph Schumpeter's innovation theory, this paper uses qualitative research method to discuss integrating indigenous herbs as cosmetics in filmmaking and entrepreneurship in Akwa. Findings show that Akwa Ibom people have a culture of utilizing herbs for various film cosmetics. The development of indigenous cosmetics from herbs can provide job for the youths and encourage creativity. The paper concludes that creativity with a purpose can encourage progress, and that the development of film cosmetics is an avenue for a steady return on investment for the State

CINEMATIC REPRESENTATION ON THE CONSERVATION OF TRADITIONAL IGBO CULINARY PRACTICES: AN ANALYSIS OF IFEDICHE

Charles O. AJAEGBU — 2025-05-09

This study examines the impact of cinematic representation on the preservation of traditional Igbo culinary practices, using the film Ifedicheas a case study. The research explores how the film showcases Igbo cultural cuisine, particularly Okpa, and its significance in promoting cultural awareness and preservation. Through the lens of cinematic apparatus theory propounded byJean-Louis Baudry, Christian Metz, and Jacques Lacan, this study analyzes how film can be a powerful tool for cultural revitalization, challenging negative stereotypes, and preserving endangered cultural practices; using content analysis of qualitative research method.The findings highlight the importance of film in promoting cultural heritage, empowering marginalized communities, and ensuring intergenerational transmission of cultural values. This research emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts between filmmakers, community members, and cultural experts to effectively propagate cultural heritage through film, ultimately contributing to the preservation of Igbo cultural identity.

ADDRESSING HARMFUL CULTURAL PRACTICES AGAINST WOMEN IN NIGERIA THROUGH DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION AND PSYCHOLOGICAL COUNSELING STRATEGIES

Martina Abiodun OHENHEN (M.A) — 2025-05-09

Harmful cultural practices against women in Nigeria, such as female genital mutilation, early and forced marriages, and degrading widowhood rites, persist despite legal prohibitions. These practices are sustained by deep-rooted socio-cultural norms and require multidimensional intervention. This study examines how Development Communication and Psychological Counseling Strategies can be harnessed to challenge and transform such harmful traditions. Anchored in Social Learning, and Participatory Communication theories, the research explores how strategic communication fosters awareness and behavioural change, while counseling provides psychological resilience and empowerment. Attempting to assess the effectiveness of media-driven campaigns, community engagements, and trauma-informed counselling in reshaping perceptions, the qualitative methods, which included a case study, focus group discussions and one-on-one interviews with advocacy groups, psychologists, and affected women, are employed. Findings reveal that integrating communication advocacy with counseling enhances intervention outcomes, bridging gaps between awareness and emotional healing. The study provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, NGOs, and grassroots organizations on leveraging these strategies for sustainable cultural transformation. This research contributes to gender equity discourse and offers a replicable model for eradicating harmful traditions through an interdisciplinary approach

MORIBUND IDEOLOGY, DOWNWARD SLOPING SIGNIFIERS AND REVOLUTIONARY WAKEFULNESS IN BAKARE'S THIS LAND MUST SACRIFICE

Anietie Francis Udofia — 2025-05-09

The sudden rise in the prices of goods and the complementary increase in demand in Nigeria is an indication that there is a defect in the application of economic ideologies which other nations apply to control their economies. As an escalating social challenge, ideology moribundity alongside with the consequences in an economy has found a cogent conduit in Bakare's This Land Must Sacrifice. This paper is a critical examination of the directionless ideology and how it affects the society to the extent of activating revolution. The method of the study is Causal Comparative Studies, theorized on Marxism which highlights economic circumstance as the stranglehold of conflict and class stratification in the society. Findings show that neither capitalism nor socialism is conscientiously implemented in Nigeria, and a headless economic ideology can sink a nation's economy. Those in the positions of power exacerbate the problem by siphoning and hoarding public funds for private use and diverting public privileges to their relatives; and that as prices rise, the fear of starvation has made people to make more demand while domestic productions are neither implemented as a national assignment nor willing individuals empowered to produce due to the inordinate misappropriation of agricultural funds. The paper concludes that every hungry and frustrated person possesses an angry and revolt-prone mind, but when a hungry man is filled he may sublimate anger to promote creativity in the society; and it is only a united people that can change a social course to create history in the society

MONEY, POWER, AND IMMORALITY: THE NEW FACE OF NIGERIAN POLITICS IN AHMED YERIMA'S PARI

Kelvin Chibenumoso OPARA — 2025-05-09

Nigerian politics has become a theatre of power struggles where morality is sacrificed for wealth and influence. Politicians of today use financial inducements, judicial manipulation, and bribery to further their ambitions, eroding moral principles in governance and society. This article uses Ahmed Yerima's Pari as a case study to examine how money and power contribute to political immorality in Nigeria. Gaetano Mosca's Elite Theory, which describes how a ruling minority manipulates institutions to retain control, serves as the foundation for the study. Findings show that the normalization of corruption has weakened state institutions including the military, police, and judiciary, while influencing the public's belief that moral compromise is necessary for political success. The study further highlights how poverty, unemployment, and economic hardship are deliberately used as tools to sustain political dominance. To restore ethical governance, the article recommends strengthening anti-corruption laws, enforcing judicial independence, and promoting civic education to reshape societal values. A political system that prioritizes morality over manipulation is essential for national progress.

DRAMA AS A STRATEGY FOR THE SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS IN SPECIAL EDUCATION CENTRE, MBIABONG ETOI, UYO. AKWA IBOM STATE.

Idaresit O. INYANG (Ph.D) — 2025-05-09

Drama serves as a powerful tool for emotional expression, social interaction, self-confidence, communication and problem solving skills. The purpose of this paper is to provide these students with a creative and inclusive outlet to develop their skills and abilities. Most special needs students lack emotional literacy and do not know how to communicate effectively or express themselves without being violent and aggressive. To solve this, this paper engaged the students in a drama experiment where they performed using role-play and improvisation techniques in a playback and story theatre. This paper carried out observations, interviews, audio and video recordings of the interview and performance. During the observation and, interview with the students, this paper found that the students had developed self-confidence and could relate with each other in a peaceful manner. This paper therefore, recommends that a safe and supportive environment should be cultivated for the students so they could express themselves without any fear of being criticized or mocked using creative activities

THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN PROMOTING DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION IN NIGERIA: FACEBOOK AND TWITTER AS CASE STUDIES

Daniel Tozabye BAWA — 2025-05-09

Social media has emerged as a transformative tool for development communication in Nigeria, enabling the dissemination of information, mobilization of communities, and promotion of social change. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have become instrumental in raising awareness about critical issues, fostering public engagement, and driving development initiatives. This paper explores the role of social media particularly Facebook and Twitter in promoting development communication in Nigeria, highlighting its potential, challenges, and implications for sustainable development. The research used the content analysis of the qualitative research methodology. Drawing on recent case studies and scholarly literature, the study argues that social media can bridge communication gaps, amplify marginalized voices, and facilitate participatory development. However, issues such as misinformation, digital divides, and regulatory concerns must be addressed to maximize its impact. The paper recommends for stakeholders to leverage the advantages social media and development communication for social change.

NEED FOR PROFESSIONALISM IN ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT INSTALLATIONS IN SELECTED NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY THEATRES

Margaret G. Akpan (PhD) — 2025-05-09

It is very unfortunate that some Nigerian tertiary institutions cannot really boast of a theatre that is well designed and sufficiently equipped for effective hands-on learning by theatre students. This is the result of assigning the contract of designing the theatre and installation of equipment to technologist, architects, technicians and designers who do not know the unique feature a theatre structure or facility should possess for effective learning outcomes. Some of the facilities of these institutions of higher learning get improved in these acts at the detriment of academic excellence, research and professionalism. Using Participant-observations and library research methods, this study focuses on the need for professionalism in architectural design and equipment installations in select Nigerian Universities. Findings show that many Nigerian universities do not have adequate space to stage their productions. Some of the architectural designs of many theatres are not handled by experts who have insight of the field, leading to theatre houses being in shambles; and that theatre equipment are not sufficient in many universities resulting in poor production qualities. The paper concludes that leaving an intricate sector of the theatre in the hands of unprofessional persons may wreck the creativity of the theatre and may lead to an irredeemable collapse of the profession. It recommends that there should be an all-round installation and revamp of theatre architecture, and that the tasks should be handled by experts in theatre study towards encouraging scholarship, professionalism and cultural development in the society.

THEATRE INSTITUTIONS AS MEDIATING STRUCTURES IN DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE OF ANKPA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KOGI STATE

Jibril Imam Mohammed-Kabir, PhD — 2025-05-09

The indispensable characteristics of mediating structures for a well-balanced society have steadily gained wide recognition over the last couple of decades among social scientists and policy experts globally. This can be seen from the roles of mediating structures outlined by different scholars. Nevertheless an essential point for the greater attention to the subject such as Peter Berger and Richard John Neuhaus whose 1977 monograph attracted attention to the subject matter. The duo popularized mediating structures further in their manifestos and highlighted it importance of mediating structures to the front burner. The consistent stable corrosion of natural communities by government policies and expansion has resulted in lack of the confidence of the people most directly affected by them. Despite their increasing desire for government services. The study in order to assess the impact of theatre institutions as mediating structures in Ankpa local government adopted the quantitative research methodology and sticking to the instrument of questionnaires for data collection, the data collected were analyzed using simple percentage. Ten (10) communities were selected and the researcher visited the communities and selected respondents who attended to the questionnaires as they were guided to fill the questionnaires. The data were analyzed through table analysis. The finding shows that theatre institutions as mediating structures have helped the local government to develop seriously in all ramifications. It is on this premise that the study recommends that theatre institutions as mediating structures should be allowed to flourish in our communities as their roles can never be underestimated. The research therefore concludes that theatre institutions can serve as mediating structures to bring the government and it plan in a democratic setting to the people and the people to the government.

AUDIENCE MOBILIZATION AND HOUSE MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OF SUNNIE ODODO'S HARD CHOICE

Sunday Peter Umanah — 2025-05-09

Abstract The paper examined the various strategies that were deployed to mobilize the various levels of audience for the production of Hard Choice in UNIUYO Season of Productions 2024. The research was based on Ex post facto design, while the theoretical framework was based on Chris Nwamuo's Theatre Monitor Theory which states that management should be people's comfort oriented. The research is qualitative nature. It was discovered that the audience is an important part of the theatre and that the success in audience mobilization can enhance the zeal to create and also inspire to the aliveness of the institution, encouraging effective “theatrepreneurship”. The paper further points out that mobilization can be effective through the specification of duty to stage management team, intensive publicity, segmentation of audience, ticketing formula, hospitality and security consciousness. The paper concludes that the success in audience relationship can redefine the thrust of the theatre. When an idea is conceived, it should be reviewed and executed. Innovation that reshapes the world springs from strategic ideas executed in confidence. Theatre Arts can encourage a wider scope of personal initiatives towards entrepreneurship in the society through audience-stage rapport.

Screening Soyinka: Contextualizing Biyi Bandele's Cinematic Adaptation Journey of Death and the King's Horseman

Kayode, Ayodeji Kunle PhD — 2025-05-09

The transition of play texts from stage to screen is a complex artistic endeavor that involves navigating the distinct characteristics of both mediums. Linda Hutcheon's adaptation theory, which examines how texts are transformed across different artistic forms, provides a critical framework for understanding the reinterpretation of dramatic works in film. This paper explores the adaptation of Wole Soyinka's renowned play Death and the King's Horseman into a film directed by Biyi Bandele, analyzing how the adaptation negotiates the interplay between theatrical and cinematic storytelling. By examining the narrative structure, thematic elements, and cultural contexts embedded in both works, this study elucidates the transformation of the original text and the cinematic interpretation's fidelity to its source. Drawing on adaptation theories such as fidelity criticism and intermediality, this paper investigates how Bandele reconfigures Soyinka's play through visual language, mise-en-scène, and performance, creating a film that both honors and recontextualizes its source material. Additionally, this study considers the implications of adapting postcolonial narratives for contemporary global audiences, highlighting the balance between cultural specificity and accessibility. Through a detailed examination of Bandele's directorial choices, we aim to understand how cultural narratives can be reshaped for a cinematic medium while maintaining the philosophical and historical weight of the original text.

PROMOTING HEALTHY SCREEN HABITS AMONGST CHILDREN: A GUIDE TO MITIGATING EXCESSIVE SCEEN TIME AND PERCIEVED ADDICTION

Ifeyinwa, UZONDU Ph.D — 2025-05-09

The extensive espousal of digital technologies has transformed the socialization and learn patterns of children; leading to substantial increase in screen time. Obviously, the easy access to various technological devices and their appealing nature, has amplified children's susceptibilities to their uses as interactive and teaching models. However, children's excessive screen time has become a global concern; due to the substantial risks it poses on their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. The aim of this study is to provide effective strategies that could save children from excessive screen time and its perceived addiction. This study is a quantitative survey that used simple percentage to analyse the questionnaire items administered to one hundred randomly selected parents in Owerri Municipal. Attachment theory and the concept of Screen Time Addiction gave credence to the fact that excessive screen time is capable of disrupting children's socio-psychological development. Hence, it critically examines the risks and implications on the developmental process of children, which include but not limited to; sleep deprivation, physical inactivity, social isolation, academic distractions and possible addictions. The paper establishes the need for tactical solutions towards children's excessive screen time. This could be achieved through the implementation of measures such as; screen time limits, physical activities, indoor games, and other cognitive behavioural therapies. It recommends the collaborative efforts of parents, caregivers, educators and healthcare professionals to create and enforce strategies that could mitigate the complexities of this subject matter, in order to promote healthy screen habits among children.

THEORIZING THE NIGERIAN STAGE: STEPHEN INEGBE@60

Ofonime Inyang, PhD — 2025-05-09

I consider it a big privilege to be saddled with the responsibility of reviewing the book, Theorising the Nigerian Stage: Stephen Inegbe at 60. This is because both the subject of the book and the book itself have direct bearing on my career and scholarship in a number of ways. This also marks a momentous coming of age for both Prof Stephen Inegbe who is being celebrated in the publication and myself who stand here as one of the children of “his brain” the product of his academic “endeavour” “and the materialisation” of his “inventive genius” to borrow directly from James Ene Henshaw's This is Our Chance (University of London Press, 1956; JEHF/JAP, London, 2013, Pg 6). To therefore be the one to review his celebratory publication at 60 puts him at a high pedestal of good fortune of not only being alive to the age of 60 but also having the uncommon pleasure of having his academic children surround his table (according to the Bible in Psalms 128:3) at this monumental stage of his life. Be that as it may, I want to further thank my colleagues in the Friends of Stephen Inegbe group and the Editors for finding me suitable to play this role among the avalanche of equally cerebral and highly talented throngs of colleagues, friends and ex-students of the celebrator. I accept this task therefore in humility and pray that we all live to surpass the age and accomplishments of our teacher and today's celebrator

INTERROGATING THE APPLICATION OF PROVERBS AS A COMMUNICATION TOOL IN BARCLAYS AYOKOROMA'S: A CHANCE TO SURVIVE

Emmanuel Iroh, Ph.D — 2025-05-09

Abstract The importance of proverbs in African cosmology cannot be underestimated as it plays multifunctional roles. It is used in teaching, communication, writing, molding and modifying characters as well as social interactions. Proverbs are veritable instrument for dramatists, novelists and story tellers in their craft of playwriting. Proverbs play important role in the preservation of our cultures and cultural heritage, thus, keeping it from extinction. The aim of this work is to examine the use of proverbs and their contextual meaning in Barclays Ayokoroma's, A Chance to Survive with a view to locating the multifunctional roles of proverbs in communication, teaching ethics, norms, values and cultural heritage. The research uses the content analysis approach of the qualitative research methodology. The result of the analysis shows that the Playwright used proverbs to convey his messages as the lessons were efficient, instructive, motivating and appealing. The study recommends for trainings, workshops and seminars to aspiring writers to emphasize the use of proverbs, not only as a writing tool but for the preservation of our cultural values.

SONGS AS METAPHOR FOR SOCIAL CRITICISM AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: THE SAMARU PROJECT FORMS

Olorunmowaju Ayodele OBATOMI — 2025-05-09

Social and infrastructural developments are basic necessities in every society as they impact healthy living. These are borne out of human creativity and innovation. This study expounds the potency of songs as metaphor for social criticism towards community development. It focuses on the songs created and used as well as their thematic emphasis in the 2024 Samaru community theatre project in Zaria, Kaduna State. Although, several studies focuses on popular music in criticizing government or leadership towards social transformation, this study centres on the metaphoric songs that condemns community maladjustment and raises campaigns for social development through community members. Through the concept of synchronism as a theoretical footing for the work, this study deploys a qualitative methodology which analyses the lyrical content of songs that addresses social ills in the Samaru community. Thus, the study reveals the synergic effect that existed between students of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and Samaru Community members in the songs creation, and presentation during the Samaru project performance addressing social ills and crusading for an enabling environment for community development. This synergetic approach of addressing community problems and proffering solution for social development is productive and aptly triggers lasting impression in the community. Therefore, the study recommends for the sustenance of such approach for quick response to curbing societal maladjustment for the overall development of the community

THEATRE AND DISCOMBOBULATING TEACHER-LEARNER PEDAGOGY: ACADEMIC PERFORMANCES OF STUDENTS IN ALVAN INSTITUTION, OWERRI NIGERIA IN FOCUS

ODUSINA-ONAIVI, ADA LUCY, PhD. — 2025-05-09

Students are inarguably a pivotal part of a society's future, progress, growth and development. Hence the need to secure their educational and career goals becomes expedient. This study seeks to stimulate discussions about the factors, militating against the academic performance of students in selected departments in Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, in a bid to restructure the debased system which is gradually corrupting the learner's attitude towards learning. The paper employed the qualitative methodology through the use of focus group, semi structured interviews, surveys, participant observation, and performance to stimulate discussion and derive information about the factors militating against the academic performance of learners, the likely causes of these factors, employable measures to checkmating these factors and bringing stakeholders to a conscious level of the need to combat this problem. Theatre for development and the medium theory outlined by John B. Thompson were adopted to harness critical consciousness, dialogue and interactive performances, geared towards engaging participants in critical discussions about the study's focus. At the interim, it was deduced that all stakeholders comprising of learners, teachers and those at the managerial level of the institution, were contributory to the factors militating against the academic performance of students. In the same vein, stakeholders from their responses during the post-performance facilitation displayed a sense of understanding and support by making recommendations on the need for these factors to be debased and restructuring embraced for the enhancement of the academic performance of students in the institution. The study summed this by doing a follow up after two academic sessions, to ascertain the following; achievability of expected outcome, sustainability of expected outcome, change level, impact level and awareness level. The conclusion is that the study's objectives were successfully achieved because visible improvements were seen and documented.