By Evelyn Usman 

One of the halls of the Naval Dockyard Limited, Victoria Island, Lagos, was abuzz with excitement on Saturday, October 5,2024,as guests from far and wide gathered to celebrate the launch of the book, “The Voice of Your Village,” authored by a naval officer, Lieutenant Sandra Hitarh of the NNS KADA.

 The 62-page book is a collection of 39 poems, sectionalized into twelve title poems, with the rest grouped into four interludes.

Reviewer of the book, Prof. Samuel Oluranti, of the department of Sociology, University of Lagos, UNILAG, highlighted the poet’s skill in capturing the image of the wounded and the sympathy that could lead to death from emotional trauma.

 He noted that the exploration of women traders’ predicaments and the challenges of cultism and unnecessary killings were also captured. 

He stated that the collection explored themes of environment, military orientation, and Nigerian society, as well as issues like hopelessness, poor living conditions, and political tragedy. 

The poet also examined the nation’s genealogy and the role of the devil in its current situation, he said.

In his review, he said: “The Voice of Your Village” is a thought-provoking collection that sparks reflection on society’s challenges. The title of the convention is taken from the poem “Caution,” where the drum speaks louder from its voice ignored: ‘We heard the drum speaking, and those of us who were able to decipher the meaning and sound of the drum will know that the drum was speaking to us’. 

“In the preamble to the book, the poet stated that death or victims of various battles affect all of us, no matter where we are located. I compared this to what K.P. Clark calls defeat; we’re all victims of casualties.

“The collection is sectionalized into twelve title poems, followed by four interludes. Interlude 1 has twelve titles, Interlude 2has two titles, Interlude 3 has fourteen titles, and Interlude 4 has four titles. The poet’s immediate environment and military orientation are reflected in the poems, which also touch on the Nigerian environment. The challenges in the larger community and environment are highlighted, including the issue of living dead, hopelessness, poor living conditions, death by installment, weak purchasing power, and political tragedy.

“The poet also explored the genealogy of our nation, tracing the source of our current situation. The rhetorical means meet religious idiosyncrasies, questioning whether the devil and his characteristics are traceable to the origin. 

“The ineptitude of our nation’s managers puts lives at risk, especially those of our security apparatus, deflating our ego as a nation and pushing us further into preventable oblivion. The poet captures the image of the wounded, whose beauty is shattered by loss and undesirable living conditions. “Sympathy for victims can lead to death from emotional trauma, as stated in ‘She lives in a means levy stone as food and shelter, this angel wants to take me to my death.The predicament of women traders and their families is detailed in “Mafusa,” highlighting the challenges of trade and poor living conditions.

Continuing, the reviewer explained that “the poem ‘Uzobu, Uzobu zobu’ highlights the absence of peace in our society, where war zones have replaced peaceful spaces, and children are denied their right to exist and enjoy life. The environment is filled with death and destruction, and our leaders’ actions are questioned.

” The poem explores the theme of change, with two groups emerging: those who fight for change and those who desire the status quo. Denial is a major obstacle, as people fear an uncertain future and underestimate their own potential. The poem also touches on the struggles of soldiers fighting for peace, the impact of COVID-19 and health challenges, and the wastage of life. It criticizes the excesses of politicians and the marginalization of certain groups. The collection also explores religious conversion, the treatment of retirees and the aged, and the dangers of injustice and marginalization. It highlights the loss experienced by society due to corrupt governance and the abandonment of the people’s needs. Finally, the poem discusses the acceptance of sin as a norm and its impact on society, as well as the confusion and misinterpretation of religious beliefs. The overall theme is one of emptiness, desperation, and the search for miracles and solutions in a society at war with itself.

In his remark, the Chief launcher ,Maj. Gen. Chukwuemeka Osita,(RTD) who flew in from the United States of America to grace the occasion, said the gesture was his own way of honoring Lt. Hitarh for her giant stride. 

Maj. Gen. Osita (RTD) extolled her exceptional leadership qualities, which he said blossomed during her formative years at the Nigerian Defence Academy and had since burgeoned into a resplendent tapestry of excellence, as evidenced by her trailblazing achievements, unwavering dedication, and unrelenting passion,” which have collectively elevated her to the pinnacle of distinction, earning her a revered place amongst the nation’s most decorated and esteemed individuals”.

In an interview with the author, she appreciated the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, for approving the publication and promotion of the book, as well as her immediate boss, Captain Andrew Zidon, for his support, and her mother for instilling in her a love for reading and encouraging her writing spark.

 She noted that each poem in the book echoed the wisdom and experiences of passionate individuals who shared their views on society, family, depression, and growth. 

Responding to question on how she got inspiration for the poems and managed it with her career as a naval personnel, she said, “Poetry is all around us, and inspiration can strike at any time. I find poetry in everyday experiences, even in the noise and busy streets. When inspiration comes, I try to keep an open mind and recognize it. I always carry a notebook to scribble down thoughts, lines, or stanzas.”

“I read a lot of non-fiction, which exposes me to true knowledge that I can eventually weave into poetry. I’m curious about your religious and spiritual beliefs. Non-fiction helps me build a spiritual foundation, which is essential for personal growth. Religion should be a base that supports us, not a burden.” 

She advised youths to find their bearing early enough, in order to avoid making mistakes in life. 

“If you don’t find your art early, you will make a lot of mistakes, and then you will eventually find your art. But if you find it early, it will consolidate on the art you already have and make it shine. So, please find your art and let it be.”