Sozaboy

Description

Sozaboy is a satirical novel by Nigerian author Ken Saro-Wiwa, set during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970). The story is told through the eyes of Moses, a young and naive boy who is recruited into the army. Despite his lack of understanding about the war or its purpose, he joins, hoping to gain respect, status, and financial stability.

Moses, dubbed “Sozaboy,” which refers to the term used for soldiers in the war, quickly learns the brutal reality of warfare. The novel is a powerful exploration of the absurdities and tragedies of war, examining how young people are manipulated into becoming soldiers with little regard for their well-being. Through humor and satire, Saro-Wiwa critiques the dehumanizing nature of violence, the failures of leadership, and the gap between the ideals and the brutal realities of conflict.

The novel’s tone mixes dark humor with poignant tragedy, offering a unique perspective on the personal and societal impacts of war, while providing sharp social commentary on the Nigerian state and its handling of the civil war.