Erelu Bisi Fayemi Sparks Inspiration During Her Powerful Book Reading with Notable Panelists

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By Taiwo Oyedeji
The Centre for Gender and Social Policy Studies, Obafemi Awolowo University, in collaboration with Above Whisper's Foundation and the Women Advocate Research and Documentation Centre, hosted a distinguished literary and intellectual gathering titled "Book Reading with Erelu Bisi Adeleye Fayemi" on Tuesday, April 15. The event featured Her Excellency Erelu Bisi Adeleye Fayemi, an esteemed alumna, renowned author, advocate, and visionary leader.

Notable attendees included Professor O. Ekundayo, Director of the Centre for Gender and Social Policy Studies; Professor Olubola Babalola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor; and a panel of distinguished professors comprising Professor Adetunji Ojo Ogunyemi, a lawyer and public affairs analyst; Professor Folashade Hunsu, a Professor of Women's Studies and Literature in English; Professor Lanre Ikuteyijo, a Professor of Criminology, Migration, and Security Studies; and Dr. Oluwabunmi Oyebode, Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Arts. Student representatives included Omoboriowo Damilola Isaac, President of the Great Ife Students' Union; Kinfeosi Joy, Secretary-General of the Great Ife Students' Union; Fasan Olumide Rachel, President of the Nigeria Association of Psychology Students at OAU; and Titilayo Molara Ayodele, a student at OAU.


In her opening remarks, Her Excellency shared her journey into writing and her commitment to amplifying women's voices. She emphasised the importance of storytelling as a means to witness, teach, and learn while addressing pressing issues such as injustice, misogyny, and marginalisation in Nigeria. Erelu Fayemi encouraged young people to embrace reading and curiosity as tools for advocacy and change.

The event fostered deep discussions on themes such as feminism, social policy, patriarchy, human rights, and gender-based violence, drawing from Erelu Fayemi's works: "Where is Your Wrapper," "Demand and Supply," and "A Tray of Locust Beans." During the student panel discussion, participants raised critical questions inspired by her writings, including: How can society address silent mental struggles? How can individuals navigate challenges without succumbing to sexual coercion? Should political positions prioritise gender inclusion or competence?

In the professors' panel discussion, they provided insightful analyses of the issues raised in Erelu Fayemi's books. They explored topics such as the impact of culture on women's rights, the failures of justice systems, the lack of accountability, and barriers to achieving justice.

Erelu Bisi Adeleye Fayemi passionately asserted that change is attainable and that women must assert their rightful place in the spaces they have worked hard to occupy. She underscored that feminism aims to create a more just world rather than relegating women to second-class status. She advised student activists to consistently reflect on "Whom am I serving?" to maintain clarity in their vision and encouraged them to acquire diplomatic skills to navigate challenges effectively.

The event concluded with attendees receiving copies of Her Excellency's books, leaving them inspired.
 

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