WAEC Literature in English 2021 Theory — Question 12

Model answer

Points to develop: relation to theme; setting; external challenges; internal challenges; the fate of Yoko's rulership. The play centres on the theme of struggle for leadership. The power tussle is contested between Yoko and the villains Musa and Lamboi. Mende Land is the chiefdom ruled by the assassinated Gbanya, whereby Yoko becomes his successor. Mende chiefdom meets challenges from within and without: colonial exploitation is represented by Governor Rowe (the Imperial Majesty's representative), who imposes tax and demarcates borders without consulting Yoko; internally, Lamboi and Ngo Musa collude and poison Gbanya, later assassinate him after implicating Yoko in the murder of Jeneba, leading to Yoko's eventual downfall and suicide.