‘Wedlock of the Gods’ Headlines Zulu Sofola Day as Theatre Community Celebrates Literary Giant

Annual Event Honours Pioneer of Nigerian Drama

THE 2026 edition of Professor Zulu Sofola Day transformed Issele-Uku, Delta State, into a meeting point for scholars, theatre practitioners and cultural advocates celebrating one of Africa’s most influential playwrights.

Organised by the Delta State Chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP), the event honoured the life and achievements of Professor Zulu Sofola, whose pioneering career established her as Nigeria’s first published female playwright and one of the continent’s foremost voices in dramatic literature.

The gathering combined intellectual engagement with artistic performance, highlighting both the historical significance and enduring relevance of her works.

Theatre as a Tool for Cultural Advocacy

A central theme of the celebration was the role of drama in preserving cultural identity while encouraging critical conversations about social values and communal life.

Resource person and National Chief Whip of NANTAP, Mr. Alex Akpuh, argued that Sofola’s dramatic works illustrate how African theatre can simultaneously protect indigenous traditions and challenge society to confront injustice and outdated practices.

Drawing extensively from Wedlock of the Gods, he explained how Sofola’s distinctive approach to tragedy examines the consequences of violating communal norms while exposing the tensions between personal freedom and collective responsibility.

He also praised her lifelong commitment to promoting women’s voices and strengthening African literary scholarship.

Performance Brings Classic Drama to Life

One of the most memorable moments of the celebration was the live performance of Wedlock of the Gods, staged by Blaze Africa Theatre House in partnership with NANTAP.

Directed by Alex Akpuh, the production captivated audiences with its emotional depth, polished stagecraft and faithful interpretation of Sofola’s enduring classic.

The performance demonstrated why the play continues to occupy a prominent place in university curricula and theatre festivals, with its themes of love, sacrifice, culture and destiny remaining relevant to contemporary audiences.

Celebrating Excellence and Cultural Stewardship

Beyond the academic sessions and theatrical production, the event recognised individuals whose work reflects the values Professor Sofola championed throughout her career.

The Obi of Issele-Uku, His Royal Majesty Engr. Nduka Ezeagwuna, Agbogidi II, received recognition for promoting cultural heritage and supporting artistic development, while respected academic Dr. Veronica Ufoegbune was honoured for her contributions to theatre education, scholarship and community service.

The monarch commended NANTAP for sustaining the annual celebration and preserving the legacy of one of Issele-Uku’s most distinguished daughters.

As participants reflected on Sofola’s remarkable body of work—including King Emene, The Wizard of Law, Old Wines Are Tasty and The Sweet Trap—they emphasised the importance of preserving African literary traditions while inspiring new generations of playwrights, performers and scholars to carry forward her enduring vision for African theatre.