Anthills Of The Savannah

Narrating in the first person, Kangan Commissioner for Information Christopher “Chris” Oriko describes a Cabinet meeting in the Presidential Palace. Chris suggests that the president, “His Excellency,” visit drought-stricken Abazon province. His Excellency sharply rebukes Chris, prompting an immediate apology. Although His Excellency’s mood briefly improves, he abruptly adjourns the meeting when chanting is heard outside the palace. He returns agitated, berating his officials and demanding an explanation for the disturbance.

His Excellency orders all Cabinet members detained while he summons Professor Reginald Okong, the commissioner for home affairs. While waiting, Chris reflects on his growing disillusionment with the regime he helped establish; the president, Sam, is a former classmate of his. He recalls recommending Okong, a political shapeshifter, for a Cabinet position—a decision that he now regrets as he observes the government’s increasing authoritarianism.

A third-person narrator takes over, backtracking slightly to Major Johnson Ossai of the State Research Council meeting with His Excellency in the latter’s private office and calming him. It is after this that His Excellency summons Professor Okong; he instructs him to placate the delegation but forbids any media coverage of the petition, claiming that the crowd outside is merely a goodwill delegation from Abazon.