Ken Okonkwo

Memories of the Dark Days Ken Okonkwo

The vast sub-Saharan landmass with many heritages was amalgamated by the British government to form the nation, Nigeria. In 1960, the nation became independent. Ethnic, tribal and religious intolerance tore into the well - ordered fabric of the country and seven years later a vicious conflict resulted. Part of the south seceded and the conflict degenerated to a civil war. Massive destruction of property and loss of lives characterized the initial savage confrontation. When the toll on both sides increased to disconcerting proportions, the Federal Government managed to successfully impose an economic blockade on the rebels then named, Biafrans. Hunger, disease and lack of all facilities including medical management ravaged the Biafrans, weakening them militarily. Anger bred wickedness and atrocities were committed in the name of Country. Thirty months after the eruption of hostilities, it ceased, and peace returned to the country. The author experienced the fore-going as a teenager trapped in the melee. A tinge of the supernatural adorns the tail end of the story and as is usual with such matters, defies explanation.