In memoriam: Sam Ukala, a god of letters remembered
By Goodnews Andrew Eruemuare
SAM Ukala (April 18, 1948 – Sept. 13, 2021), a stalwart champion of youthful ascendancy, exemplified an unwavering commitment to nurturing the nascent talents of emerging writers. His critiques, delivered with precision and benevolence, served as a masterclass in literary refinement, as he skillfully guided fledgling wordsmiths toward the realization of their full potential. The luminary Professor Ukala’s pedagogical approach was characterized by an empathetic sagacity, as he adeptly discerned the latent potential within his protégés and cultivated it with meticulous care.
On the vast expanse of social media, Professor Ukala’s presence was ubiquitous, marked by an effervescent dynamism that belied his stature as a luminary in the literary firmament. Unlike many of his contemporaries, who often seemed reticent to engage with the creative endeavors of others, Ukala’s online demeanor was characterized by an infectious enthusiasm, as he posted with regularity and responded thoughtfully to the musings of fellow intellectuals. His Facebook timeline, in particular, was a testament to his boundless energy and curiosity, as he would frequently initiate conversations with direct messages, inquiring about the etymology of novel slang and colloquialisms. This propensity for engagement not only endeared him to a vast array of literary aficionados but also facilitated a symbiotic exchange of ideas, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among writers and scholars.
As a literary icon, Ukala’s influence extended far beyond the confines of academia, permeating the very fabric of our cultural landscape. His erudite insights and sagacious critiques served as a beacon of guidance for those navigating the labyrinthine paths of creative expression. Through his unwavering dedication to the literary arts, he inspired a generation of writers to strive for excellence, to push the boundaries of language and imagination, and to harness the transformative power of words. His legacy will continue to resonate throughout the literary world, a testament to the indelible impact of his life’s work.
Ukala developed an approach to theatre that he pioneered in his own dramatic writings. He called this ‘folkism’, and explored the concept further in his academic work. ‘Folkism’ grew from his belief in the necessity of decolonization in theatre, and the desire to explore African traditional standards of beauty and dramatic balance. In the construction of his plays he draws on an African oral tradition. In particular he develops material from the oral tradition of the Ika people (of the northwest region of Delta State in Nigeria). This he works into modern dramatic forms.
Prof. Sam Ukala
Some of Ukala’s published plays include The Slave Wife, The Log in Your Eyes, Akpakaland, Break a Boil, Placenta of Death and award-winning play, Iredi War (2024).
Life’s brevity is a poignant paradox, an ephemeral sojourn that defies quantification by the most precise of measures. Like a fleeting zephyr, it whispers away, leaving behind only the echoes of our endeavors. As we navigate the labyrinthine paths of existence, a profound introspection beckons: when our mortal coil is shed, will the ledger of our lives be inscribed with the indelible marks of benevolence and virtue? Will the testimonies of those whose lives we have touched bear witness to the salubrious impact of our deeds, thereby conferring upon our legacy a dignity that transcends the transience of time?
In the case of Ukala, the answer is an unequivocal affirmative. His life’s work, marked by an unyielding passion for literature and a commitment to nurturing the talents of others, has left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations of writers and scholars. As we bid farewell to this titan of letters, we take solace ink the knowledge that his impact will be felt for years to come, a testament to the transformative power of literature and the indelible mark of a life well-lived.
In conclusion, Sam Ukala’s passing leaves a void in the literary world that can never be filled. However, his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, a shining exemplar of the impact that one individual can have on the world of letters. As we reflect on his life and work, we are reminded of the importance of cultivating a sense of community and camaraderie among writers and scholars, of fostering a love of literature that transcends generations and boundaries. May his memory inspire us to strive for excellence in our own pursuits, to harness the transformative power of words, and to leave our own indelible mark on the world.
* Eruemuare (Sir A-One), who describes himself as ‘a luminary of linguistic erudition and entrepreneural acumen,’ is behind ‘Speak Up Quotes’ series
