Title:   THE RULE OF LAW IN CHINUA ACHEBE'S ANTHILLS OF THE SAVANNAH

Abstract
The Rule of Law is a concept that describes the supreme authority of the law
over government action and individual behaviour. It corresponds to a situation
where both the government and individuals are bound by the law and comply
with it. The antithesis is arbitrary rule which is what holds in Anthills of the
Savannah. The activities of General Sam, Major Ossai, the army, the secret
police and some cabinet members manifest arbitrary use of power. Abuse of
power is emblematic in General Sam's mode of governance which manifests in
torture, intimidation, threats and brutal killings. He inflicts suffering on the
people he rules. This paper investigates Anthills of the Savannah as a
representation of misrule through the application of A. V. Dicey's concept of the
rule of law. This study adopts analytical design, and utilizes close reading
technique to establish that the rule of law has been set aside in Kangan, and is a
replica of the Nigerian politics and governance.
Keywords: the rule of law, arbitrary, Anthills of the Savannah, supreme
authority, government.

Citations:

Publication Date: 2024-03-18