This question is based on Ola Rotimi's Ovonramwen Nogbaisi. 'Go tell Overami that he has nothing to fear from the white men in matter of fair play....' In the above statement, the White man expects Ovonramwen to

Question 127 of 327

This question is based on Ola Rotimi's Ovonramwen Nogbaisi.

'Go tell Overami that he has nothing to fear from the white men in matter of fair play....'

In the above statement, the White man expects Ovonramwen to

A. allow the Whiteman free access to Benin
B. accept gifts from the Whiteman in exchange for land
C. surrender himself to the whiteman
D. surrender his chiefs who are in hiding

Correct Answer: C

Explanation

The correct option for the question based on Ola Rotimi's "Ovonramwen Nogbaisi" is C. surrender himself to the whiteman. Explanation of the Correct Answer

Contextual Understanding: The statement "Go tell Overami that he has nothing to fear from the white men in matter of fair play" suggests a level of manipulation and coercion by the white men. They are attempting to project an image of benevolence and fairness, which is often a tactic used by colonial powers to gain trust and compliance from local leaders.
Character Analysis: Ovonramwen, the protagonist, is a king who is faced with the encroachment of colonial powers. The white men, represented by their emissaries, are trying to convince him that their intentions are not harmful. However, the underlying message is that they expect him to submit to their authority, which is a common expectation in colonial contexts.
Implications of Surrender: By asking Ovonramwen to surrender himself, the white men are essentially demanding that he relinquish his power and authority. This is a critical moment in the narrative, as it highlights the struggle between colonial forces and indigenous leadership. Surrendering himself would mean acknowledging the supremacy of the colonial power and accepting their rule over his people.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

A. allow the Whiteman free access to Benin: While allowing access could be part of the broader expectation, the statement specifically emphasizes Ovonramwen's personal surrender rather than just granting access. This option lacks the direct implication of personal submission that is central to the question.
B. accept gifts from the Whiteman in exchange for land: This option suggests a transactional relationship, which is not the primary focus of the statement. The emphasis is on fear and surrender rather than negotiation or exchange. Accepting gifts implies a level of agency and choice that is not present in the context of the statement.
D. surrender his chiefs who are in hiding: This option implies a focus on the actions of others rather than Ovonramwen himself. While the chiefs' surrender could be a part of the larger colonial strategy, the statement specifically addresses Ovonramwen's personal situation and his relationship with the white men. The expectation is for him to surrender himself, not to act against his chiefs.

Summary of Key Points

The correct answer is C because it reflects the expectation of personal submission to colonial authority.
The statement implies manipulation by the white men, presenting themselves as fair while demanding surrender.
Other options either misinterpret the focus of the statement or suggest actions that do not align with the central theme of personal surrender.
Understanding the dynamics of colonial power and indigenous resistance is crucial for interpreting the text accurately.

This thorough analysis should help you grasp the complexities of the characters and themes in "Ovonramwen Nogbaisi," particularly in relation to colonialism and leadership.