One of Africa’s leading feminists, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, is passionate about women’s rights because of their role in national development.
She dreams of a world where women have unhindered access to power.
“No nation can make progress without the participation of both men and women,” she stressed.
Adeleye-Fayemi is the author of many books on women’s rights and empowerment.
These include “Loud Whispers,” “Where is your Wrapper,” “A tray of Locust Beans,” “Demand and Supply,” and “Speaking for Myself: Perspectives on Social, Political and Feminist Activism in Africa.”
The former Ekiti State First Lady was a special guest of the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos (UNILAG) at a book reading and film screening, which preceded the Gender Conference 2024.
The session was organised by the UNILAG Human Rights Clinic, the Women Advocates Research & Documentation Centre (WARDC) and the Above Whispers Media Foundation, with support from the MacArthur Foundation.
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Adeleye-Fayemi said she writes to empower women, giving them a voice in the belief that they deserve every chance.
“Why do women have less access to power and control?” she wondered.
She urged other women in privileged positions to support fellow women.
While she was First Lady, she influenced the passage of no fewer than seven laws to protect women and girls and helped shape policies that changed their future.
Her passion for women’s rights remains unwavering.
“I encouraged my husband to pick a woman as running mate,” she recalled.
She explained that feminism does not mean women should take the place of men, but that both can make valuable contributions to society, so none should be subjugated.
“My feminism has to add value. It has to be connected to daily struggles.”
Adeleye-Fayemi demonstrated why men need women. She asked all the men in the hall to clap. They did. She then asked them to clap with one hand. Of course, that was impossible. “You cannot clap with one hand,” she reminded them.
She also stressed the value of sex education, saying that a lack of it “has ruined women’s lives,” therefore “we need to arm ourselves with as much information as possible.”
Adeleye-Fayemi is determined to do that through books.
“I write because I feel I have a voice and a platform. It gives me a lot of joy and satisfaction,” she said.
She recalled how her father shaped her passion for writing.
“He insisted that every Tuesday and Thursday, I must write him an essay.
“That culture of writing could not have been possible without the culture of reading,” she said.
Dean, UNILAG Faculty of Law, Prof Abiola Sanni (SAN), represented by Prof. Nwudego Chinweuba, backed Adeleye-Fayemi’s call for women to be given a chance.
“We want to ensure that everyone is carried along to contribute to a just society,” he said.
The event featured panel discussions by the faculty members on the books, a spoken word performance, and a post-book reading film show.
Also at the event were UNILAG Deputy Vice-Chancellor and professor of law Ayodele Atsenuwa; and former UNILAG dean of law Prof Oyelowo Oyewo (SAN), who convened the gender conference.
About the books
“Loud Whispers”
The book is a compelling collection of essays and reflections that explore themes of gender equality, leadership, and societal dynamics from a feminist perspective. Drawing from her experiences as an advocate, leader, and thinker, Adeleye-Fayemi discusses critical issues such as women’s empowerment, the challenges of patriarchy, and the importance of creating inclusive societies. The book blends personal anecdotes with broader societal analysis, encouraging readers to engage in meaningful conversations about equity, justice, and the power of advocacy. It serves as both a call to action and an inspirational guide for anyone seeking to challenge systemic inequalities and foster change.
Commenting on “Loud Whispers,” 2011 Nobel Peace Laureate Leymah Gbowee wrote: “The book is a refreshing read which presents its readers with a clear understanding of African women’s experience of feminism. The brilliant compilation offers a practical understanding of daily feminist issues while correcting myths and misconceptions.”
“A tray of Locust Beans”
The book is an anthology of previously published short stories and poems written by Erelu Adeleye-Fayemi. The book contains a diverse and topical range of stories and poems united by a fascination with how everyday interactions can transform our lives in unpredictable ways. The books convey stories of hope and possibilities. It is compelling, arresting and thought-provoking. It was written with an exemplary eye for empathy and an understanding of the complexities of human nature, courage and opportunities, which are much-needed elixir in a climate of fear and pessimism.
“Speaking for Myself: Perspectives on Social, Political and Feminist Activism in Africa”
The book is an open and deeply insightful chronicle of the author’s journey as a feminist, advocate, and leader. The book offers insights into her personal life, career, and activism, capturing the challenges and triumphs she has faced in her quest to empower women and challenge societal norms. It reflected the author’s contributions honestly and passionately, sharing her experiences in navigating cultural expectations, politics, and global advocacy while staying true to her values. The book serves as an inspirational guide for women seeking to find their voice and make a difference in the world.
“Where is your Wrapper?”
This is a powerful book that explores the concept of sisterhood, collective action, and the role of women in supporting each other in their personal and professional lives. Drawing on African cultural metaphors, the book uses the “wrapper” as a symbol of care, solidarity, and the strength women provide for one another. Through a series of essays and reflections, the author addresses themes of patriarchal oppression and how it affects the lives of women, gender equality, leadership, and the importance of nurturing relationships among women to foster empowerment and societal transformation. The book seriously considered some of the socio-cultural conditions shaping the 21st century and how women’s lives are continually shaped by the culture of restraint. It is a call to action for women to stand together and build networks of support in their pursuit of progress and justice, and a challenge to every one of us to examine ourselves and how we contribute to social change.
“Demand and Supply”
This book is a thought-provoking work that examines the dynamics of power, privilege, and societal expectations, particularly as they relate to gender and human rights. Using the economic analogy of demand and supply, the author appraises how women’s labour, contributions, and voices are undervalued and often exploited in systems that prioritise patriarchal interests. She advocates for a recalibration of these dynamics, urging for a world where women’s rights and efforts are not just acknowledged but actively supported and rewarded. Through sharp analysis and personal insights, the book challenges readers to rethink societal norms and work toward equity and justice. The book makes a robust case for the demands of the marginalised persons in our society, and the need to respond with appropriate strategies and urgencies.
