Writers, Identity and the Search for Peace in Troubled Societies

AT a time when insecurity, ethnic tensions, and political instability continue to shape public life across parts of Nigeria and Africa, the Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), Dr. Wale Okediran, has argued that literature remains one of the continent’s most powerful but underutilised tools for peacebuilding and social transformation.

Speaking at the 3rd Plateau International Literary Festival in Jos, Plateau State, Dr. Okediran described writers as critical agents of social change capable of influencing public attitudes, fostering empathy, and promoting peaceful coexistence through storytelling.

The literary festival, which focused on the theme “Literature and Identity: Towards a Peaceful Co-existence on the Plateau and Beyond,” served as a platform for discussions on culture, identity, conflict, and the future of African societies.

Why Plateau State Matters

In his address, Dr. Okediran reflected on Plateau State’s symbolic place within Nigeria’s national peace conversation.

Known historically as the “Home of Peace and Tourism,” Plateau has also experienced years of communal tensions and security challenges that have affected its tourism potential and social stability.

The PAWA Secretary-General noted that despite these difficulties, the state remains culturally rich and strategically important to conversations around identity and coexistence.

He commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang for supporting literary initiatives and improving infrastructure in the state, while also praising the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Plateau chapter, for sustaining the literary festival.

According to him, annual literary festivals provide opportunities for intellectual engagement and cultural dialogue capable of strengthening social harmony.

The Pen as an Instrument of Resistance

Central to Dr. Okediran’s argument was the idea that literature has historically functioned as a weapon against oppression, injustice, and violence.

He noted that throughout history, writers have challenged institutional power, influenced public debates, and inspired movements for social reform.

From anti-slavery literature in the United States to anti-colonial writings in Africa, literary works have often amplified the voices of marginalized communities and questioned dominant systems of power.

Dr. Okediran cited authors such as Frederick Douglass, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Martin Luther King Jr., and James Baldwin as examples of writers whose words contributed significantly to social and political transformation.

He also highlighted the works of African literary figures, including Chinua Achebe and Kofi Awoonor, whose writings addressed colonial disruption, identity crises, and social fragmentation.

According to him, literature remains relevant because it creates emotional connections that statistics and political speeches often fail to achieve.

Storytelling and Empathy

The PAWA Secretary-General stressed that storytelling possesses a rare ability to humanise suffering and reduce social divisions.

By allowing readers to encounter unfamiliar realities and experiences, literature encourages empathy and understanding among diverse communities.

He argued that societies experiencing ethnic, religious, or political tensions require more platforms for dialogue, storytelling, and cultural exchange rather than violence and hostility.

According to him, literature can help citizens understand perspectives different from their own, thereby reducing prejudice and strengthening mutual respect.

Dr. Okediran added that storytelling traditions in Africa should not be neglected, especially at a time when many societies are increasingly polarized.

Young People and the Future of Peacebuilding

A significant part of the address focused on children and young people, whom Dr. Okediran described as central to Africa’s future stability.

He urged governments, literary organisations, and communities to invest more in reading culture and access to books for children.

According to him, placing books in the hands of young people can help shape responsible citizens and discourage cycles of violence and extremism.

He warned that ignoring youth development while insecurity grows across the continent could worsen social instability in the future.

The literary advocate also called for writers to engage more actively with schools and community programmes that encourage creativity, dialogue, and critical thinking among young people.

Literature and Governance

Dr. Okediran further argued that literature and public policy should not exist in separate spaces.

According to him, writers can influence governance by promoting accountability, advocating justice, and encouraging leaders to adopt peaceful approaches to conflict resolution.

He linked these ideas to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16, which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies, access to justice, and strong institutions.

The PAWA Secretary-General disclosed that the organisation had previously convened writers, policymakers, and statesmen from nearly 40 African countries to discuss literature’s role in advancing peace and security across the continent.

He maintained that Africa’s growing security challenges require collective intellectual and cultural responses alongside military and political solutions.

Literature Beyond the Festival Stage

As discussions at the Plateau International Literary Festival concluded, Dr. Okediran urged participants to see literature as more than an artistic pursuit.

For him, writing represents a civic responsibility capable of shaping societies and influencing national direction.

He encouraged African writers to continue using their voices to promote dialogue, challenge injustice, and encourage peaceful coexistence across divided communities.

His address underscored a growing argument among scholars and cultural advocates that literature may remain one of the most enduring tools for building understanding in increasingly fragmented societies.