The Nigerian Literati paid tribute to one of the country's best at the Jazzhole, Awolowo Rd, Ikoyi, Jan 5, 2006. Professor Biodun Jeyifo-Teacher, Activist and Literary Icon had just turned 60. Professor Wole Soyinka was unavoidably absent but was ably represented. Seated from left are the historian, Professor Akinwunmi Ishola, Professor Biodun Jeyifo (Centre) and Professor Femi Osofisan  

Toyin Akinosho, Writer and Art Critic with Sola Olorunyomi, literary activist, at the Jazzhole tribute to Professor Jeyifo-05-01-06 

Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, former M.D. Daily Times of Nigeria at the tribute to Professor Biodun Jeyifo-January 5, 2006 

Jahman Anikulapo, Editor-Sunday Guardian (left), and Kunle Tejuosho, Proprietor- Jazzhole at the celebration of Professor Jeyifo's 60th birthday 

Dr Ahmed Yerima (left), Director-National Troupe of Nigeria and "Otunba" Tunji Sotimirin-Drama Lecturer and Musician at the celebration of Professor Biodun Jeyifo's 60th birthday-Jazzhole, Ikoyi, Lagos 

The Immigrant

I’m trying to lose this accent
trying to blend into my surroundings
like insignificant wallpaper
I’m trying to smile
when you laugh at my mistakes.
Trying to be a good sport.

I’m trying to appreciate John Keats
and William Butler Yeats
I’m trying to put up a jolly good show
I’m trying to sit in this blood-red bus
and act as if I know this city
and I’m trying to look inconspicuous.

I’m trying to be dismayed
when you catch a corrupt official
Trying to forget
he’d be a lord in my land
Trying not to think of those I left behind
Trying to forget
how I almost didn’t make it out.

I’m trying to be you, curse this clumsy tongue.

(c) Wole Oguntokun

CAMWOOD ON THE LEAVES-
Mrs. Olumorin(Jennifer Osammor), Ishola (Seun Kentebe) and Mr. Olumorin (Kenneth Uphopho) square up in the last rehearsal of Professor Soyinka's play. The drama was directed by Wole Oguntokun-The Muson Centre, Friday, Dec 30, 2005