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Poet and Social Activist, Valentine Okolo, talks on Rape, Genocide, and the Power of Words

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6 years ago

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In this interview with Valentine Okolo the author of the thought provoking poetry book: I Will Be Silent speaks on the inspiration and much more :

Godwin Iheancho: Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?

Valentine Okolo: I got it from the title of a poem I wrote called “I Will Be Silent.” This was a poem I wrote concerning the genocide which happened in Darfur, Sudan, many years ago. I wrote it in response to the then international media blackout that occurred during that period and how men and young male children were systematically slaughtered by government supported Janjaweed militia. And how women were also gang raped, and impregnated by their oppressors, and sometimes mutilated.

In genocides rape is most times weaponized by the aggressive side, and the suffering sides to such wickedness are women, old and young. Such actions tear at my core and reveal mankind’s depravity at its worst. That poem and a few others similar to it form the back bone of the book.

Genocides, sex slavery, rape and a few other indignities suffered by many women in improvished regions of the world continue still. Boko Haram, and it’s aftermath, the Fulani Herdsmen follow in the footsteps of the Janjaweed militia in Sudan which commited those attrocities with government blessings.

In Nigeria, it is apparent that the government is in accord with Boko Haram and the Fulani Herdsmen as it has repeatedly played to the gallery whenever it is called to question regarding the poor equipments deployed and the improvishment of military troops sent to the effected regions to combat the insurgency. Rather, they result in the use of euphemisms by calling the terrorists “Bandits” and the deployment of mass media propaganda to negate the seriousness of the insurgency.

The entire idea of the book is centred around the themes of pain, and perseverance that these people, and may more like them in different regions of the world, face and have to endure constantly.

I Will Be Silent is not just a book to me. It is more than that. It is a call to witness. It is a series of poems which proceed not from the heart but from the gut of tribulation and endurance. It is a book which bears witness to the collected voices who cannot speak for themselves because they have been silenced.

Godwin Iheancho: How do you get inspired to write?

Valentine Okolo: Most times I feel the emotions of others when I write. In those moments I become that which I write about. I see with their eyes, I hear with their ears, I feel with their skin. In those moments I cease to be myself, and become someone else. I become her, they, it. I become someone’s dreams. And relive, sometimes, their nightmares.

I write from a place of suffering. From a place of joy. I explore the two extremes in my poetry.

In my book I Will Be Silent I wrote many poems which grew from those two extremes. Or should I say, some poems made me write them inspired by these extremes of human existence.

I most times don’t plan a poem in advance. Some poems, if I may use the expression, fall at my feet, almost fully formed. They are a few poems, however, that I do make plans to write in advance. And in order to write them I have to enter into a period of poetic gestation. A period in which I allow the idea of the poem to take root and grow within me until it is ready to be birthed. Sometimes the gestation period may take a few days. Sometimes it can take months or even years.

I like writing organically. So I don’t force anything out. I allow myself to be. I allow myself to feel. I allow the words to come to me like the wind. And I try to catch whatever message that is whispered in the breeze.

Godwin Iheancho : What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Valentine Okolo: First, they should close their eyes and feel. And then write what they felt. Some of the notable works of literature (which includes fiction, non fiction, poetry, science fiction and so on) were written from an abundance of feelings. If you don’t feel what you have written, don’t expect someone else to feel it too. (Unless, you want to be too intellectual and write drab college textbooks.)

Your writing has to move you first before you expect it to move someone else. Write what you feel first. Then put it away for awhile, and then look at it again with the eyes of a stranger. If you read what you had written earlier with the stranger’s eyes and say to yourself: “Wow! Did I write this?” Then someone else will also be wowed by it as well.

Words convey emotions. Be successful in conveying your emotions in your lines.

Next is style.

If expressing your emotions is fuel for your writing, see style as your technique for progress.

See writing as you would a dance in progress. A dancer may have the necessary energy to prance about. But this prancing alone without an arranged motion may not result in anything beautiful to behold. A dancer uses learned dancing techniques and translates those techniques and that energy into beautiful motions (insert here any dance style of your choice: ballet, foxtrot, salsa, tango, hip-hop, contemporary, and so on). When done properly these motions of choreography capture your attention. For a writer, style is like those beautiful motions. Some you can learn from the writings of someone else. Some you can teach yourself.

If you can afford it, enrol into a good writing class with a teacher that you respect his or her style of writing. Such a person will help ground you in the proper techniques of sentence constructions, and the proper use of words, characterizations and lots more.

Godwin Iheancho: What’s the best thing about being a writer?

Valentine Okolo: It allows me to state what I feel. It allows me to display on a blank page the potency of my thoughts. I am a poet. And I write poetry. And to me words are not just a means of communication. To me words are life. Words carry with them a strong creative force. A force that makes things happen. The first thing that happened in the creation of this planet was the issue of a command. From God Almighty Himself. As documented in the Bible book of Genesis where it was written that there was darkness every where and the Earth was void and without form and the Spirit of God was hovering over the deep. And God Himself uttered the immortal words that started the beginning of life in this world. He said: “Let there be light.” And lo, light came to be. And illuminated the perpetual darkness.

Jesus Christ Himself used words to heal. It was written in the Gospels that He issued words of command and the blind were made to see, the lame walk, and the diseased were made clean. Even to the point of raising the dead. The words: “Lazarus, come forth!” are perhaps one of the most unforgettable lines I have ever read in any form of literature. Because they were more than just words. A mummified man who was dead for four days heard them from beyond the grave and rose to life!

 Godwin Iheancho: How do you deal with writer’s block?

Valentine Okolo: I empty my mind. And do something else that is not related to what I am writing about. Sometimes I take long walks, and focus on being in the present. As I walk, I take note of the rise and fall of the land, the diverse faces of people, the roaming animals, and the sounds coming from cars and motorcycles. Most times when I do this ideas flow to me freely, clearing my imaginative inhibitors.

Get the book: I Will Be Silent on Amazon:  www.amazon.com/author/valentineokolo

You can also follow him on Twitter. His handle: @poetval.

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

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2 weeks ago

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May 18, 2026

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Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

 

 

Popular Islamic singer and entertainer, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri, has continued to receive prayers and accolades from fans, friends and well-wishers as she celebrates her birthday today.

The celebrated artiste, known for her inspiring Islamic songs and captivating stage presence, described music as a divine calling and a special gift from God meant to announce her greatness to the world.

Speaking on her journey in the entertainment industry, Kifaya said her unique voice and wisdom helped her gain quick recognition among music lovers and industry stakeholders.

According to her, “My beautiful voice coupled with great wisdom have made my versatility in the entertainment industry quick to be noticed by all and sundry.”

The singer, whose maiden album titled Alaseyori brought her into the limelight years ago, also ventured into fashion and the sales of imported shoes and bags alongside her music career.

As part of efforts to expand her reach in the industry, the Islamic music star disclosed that her songs are available on several digital streaming platforms, including Audiomack and other online play stores.

Having spent over 15 years in the music industry, Kifaya said her versatility has also earned her ambassadorial deals for different brands.

Despite the challenges encountered on her path to success, the singer expressed gratitude to God for sustaining her through difficult times.

“I have got reasons to appreciate God. Though I have passed through a lot, today I have opportunities to thank God,” she said.

Meanwhile, admirers have continued to describe the celebrant as a symbol of grace, faith and excellence, praying for greater achievements, sound health, peace of mind and abundant blessings in her new age.

The birthday celebration has also generated reactions across social media platforms, where fans and associates continue to celebrate her impact in the Islamic entertainment space and wish her many more fruitful years filled with happiness and prosperity.

 

Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey

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Ileya Tonic : King Saheed Osupa Announces New 2-in-1 Album, Acapella & Metamorphosis

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3 weeks ago

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May 16, 2026

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Ileya Tonic : King Saheed Osupa Announces New 2-in-1 Album, Acapella & Metamorphosis

By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)

 

 

Veteran Fuji musician King Saheed Osupa is set to release a new 2-in-1 album titled Acapella & Metamorphosis on May 26, 2026.

The announcement was revealed through promotional materials shared across the singer’s official social media pages, where anticipation has already started building among longtime fans of the Fuji icon. The artwork for the project presents Osupa in a calm and regal setting, matching the mature image he has maintained throughout his career.

While full details about the tracklist and featured artists are yet to be officially released, the title of the project has already sparked conversations online. “Metamorphosis” suggests a new phase or evolution, while “Acapella” hints at a more raw or expressive musical direction. Together, both titles point toward a project that may combine classic Fuji elements with a refreshed sound and message.

Over the years, Osupa has remained one of the most respected voices in Fuji music, known for his deep lyrical style, cultural storytelling, and loyal fanbase across Nigeria and beyond. Even as the music industry continues to evolve, the singer has maintained strong relevance, especially among audiences who appreciate traditional Yoruba-rooted sounds blended with contemporary production.

The decision to release a 2-in-1 album also stands out at a time when many artists are focusing on shorter projects and singles. For established acts like Osupa, larger releases often serve as a statement of longevity, consistency, and artistic confidence.

Fans have continued to react positively to the announcement online, with many already counting down to the release date. The project is expected to arrive on major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, Boomplay, YouTube Music, TIDAL, and Deezer.

With the official release now scheduled for May 26, listeners will be watching closely to see what King Saheed Osupa delivers on Acapella & Metamorphosis and whether the project marks another defining moment in his long-running career.

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Aesha Mikaelson Returns as Producer: Actress Aishy Announces Powerful Screen Comeback With IJA ORU

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3 weeks ago

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May 15, 2026

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Aesha Mikaelson Returns as Producer: Actress Aishy Announces Powerful Screen Comeback With IJA ORU

 

After years away from the spotlight, Nigerian actress, producer, and media personality Aesha Mikaelson is making a highly anticipated return to the screen with a bold new identity, a renewed creative vision, and a powerful upcoming movie project titled IJA ORU — a project she is also producing.

 

Previously known in the entertainment industry as Aishy, whose real name is Aisat Iyabode Asamu, the actress built recognition through multiple media appearances and interviews across prominent Nigerian publications. Over the years, she became known for her charisma, screen presence, and growing influence within Nollywood and youth entertainment culture.

 

Now reintroduced professionally as Aesha Mikaelson, she is entering a new phase of her career — one that reflects growth, reinvention, and artistic maturity, marked not only by her return in front of the camera but also by her expanded role behind the scenes as a producer.

 

Her comeback project, IJA ORU, is scheduled to premiere on May 22 via Yetunde Barnabas TV on YouTube, marking what many insiders describe as one of the most symbolic independent returns currently building momentum in Nigeria’s digital film space.

 

Produced by Aesha Mikaelson under Quila Visuals Production, the movie blends mystery, spiritual tension, emotion, and psychological storytelling — themes that continue to resonate strongly with modern African audiences. Her dual role as both lead talent and producer underscores her evolution from performer to creative force shaping her own narratives.

 

Speaking on her return, Aesha Mikaelson described the project as more than just another film release.

 

“This is not just a comeback. It is a rebirth — creatively and personally. I took time away from the spotlight to grow, reflect and rebuild my vision as an actress, producer, and storyteller.”

 

Before her hiatus, Aishy gained public attention through several interviews and entertainment features discussing her career journey, personal growth, and experiences in the entertainment industry. Her media presence appeared in outlets including Vanguard Media Limited, Tribune Online, BusinessDay, TMY News, and The Nation Newspaper.

 

Industry observers say the rebrand to Aesha Mikaelson — paired with her step into producing — reflects a broader shift happening among modern Nigerian creatives, moving from conventional celebrity culture into more intentional brand positioning, ownership of creative output, and cinematic storytelling.

 

The visuals surrounding IJA ORU have already generated growing online conversations, particularly for their dark symbolic aesthetic and emotionally charged presentation. Fans and supporters across social media platforms have also welcomed the actress back, describing her return as “long overdue.”

 

The release further highlights the growing influence of YouTube-driven Nollywood distribution, where independent creators and producers like Aesha Mikaelson are increasingly building global audiences beyond traditional cinema systems.

 

With IJA ORU now approaching release, many believe Aesha Mikaelson’s return — this time as both star and producer — could mark the beginning of a major new chapter in her career.

 

For followers who remember the actress as Aishy, the comeback represents nostalgia. For newer audiences discovering her for the first time, it may become the start of a powerful new screen identity led by a creator now firmly in command of her own story.

 

IJA ORU premieres May 22 on Yetunde Barnabas TV via YouTube.

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