Bisola Olowolabayaki Ogeele

Dad's Idea Bisola Olowolabayaki Ogeele

Dad's Idea is a drama text of contemporary love story by Bisola Ogeele. Young Ahoiza has just graduated from the university. She loves and wants to marry a rich young medical doctor. But her father, Mr. Adoniyi, has other plans for her: she is to marry Enesi, a poor but responsible young teacher in their neighborhood. Ahoiza takes side with her mum, Mrs. Adoniyi, against her father. One day, Mr. Adoniyi is involved in a serious road accident. His last duty is to join off Ahoiza and Enezi, much to the amazement of everyone. Ahoiza is however cajoled by her best friend, Ohunene, to marry Enezi. After the wedding, she refuses to settle into her matrimonial role, forcing Enesi to devise an unusual means to win her heart in love. This works way beyond his expectations. Bisola in her book, Dad's Idea, has brought out one aspect of culture in the Nigerian environment that is yet to be completely abolished. As enlightened as Mr. Adoniyi is, he still can't resist the urge to choose a husband for her daughter. Typical of a lady of her age, Ahoiza tries to avoid marrying her father's wish because she can't afford to marry a poor man. A question of morality is raised in Dad's Idea. What woman goes out with another man after her wedding? What man still goes out with a girlfriend who has gotten married to another man? One just has to be wise and mature in handling such issues. The characters in the play are few and developed. The diction makes for easy understanding. The language use and naming betrays the Nigerian environment. Bisola Ogeele has really touched on the issues contemporary youths are facing. She subtly proffers a solution to them with Dad's Idea.