Reflections on family, loss, and Nigeria’s endless struggles – A review of Ezinne Ibe’s AHAMEFULA

Title: AHAMEFULA: A Family’s Journey through Detention and Loss

Author: Ezinne Ibe

Year of Publication: 2025

Number of Pages: 96

Category: Memoir

“May Nigeria never happen to you” is more than just a phrase; it’s a solemn prayer that sets the tone for Ahamefula, a deeply moving memoir by Ezinne Ibe. The story reveals the harsh realities faced by her family and many Nigerians. Reading this book is an emotional journey filled with anger, sorrow, and a deep sense of helplessness that stays with you long after.

Right away, the meaning behind the title Ahamefula, which means “May my name not be lost” in Igbo, becomes clear. Early on, a quiet sadness settles in. This isn’t just a personal story; it reflects the Nigeria of past decades marked by political instability, injustice, and societal struggles. Anyone who lived through the military era of the 1980s and 1990s will recognise the story as true and familiar.

A central moment in the book is the wrongful arrest of the author’s brother. No sibling or parent should ever have to endure such pain. This event highlights the vulnerability many Nigerians face, especially when caught in unjust systems. The author’s emotions come through powerfully, making the anguish deeply felt.

The pain in the story gets even worse with more terrible losses. It’s already incredibly hard to lose one family member to detention, but to then lose another to death is something you can barely imagine. The sadness described is deep and true, showing how easily life can be broken when bad things keep happening over and over.

The book also asks an important question: “Where is the country heading?” This question was asked years ago and is still relevant today. Many of the problems Nigeria faced decades ago remain, some even worse. It feels like a painful repeat, without much hope for change.

Adding more viewpoints to the story, like those of her parents and her brother, helps the reader understand the family’s experience much better. Hearing from all of them makes the story feel more real and emotional.

Though short, Ahamefula is packed with important history and lessons about strength, community, and family. It’s not just about hardship, it’s about the will to keep going despite everything. Sadly, many of the issues raised are still part of life in Nigeria today.

This book is recommended for anyone who values stories of resilience, family, and hope in the face of difficult times.

About the reviewer

Titilade Oyemade is a business executive in a leading organisation and holds a degree in Russian Language. She’s the convener of the Hangoutwithtee Ladies Event and the Publisher of Hangoutwithtee magazine. She spends her weekends attending women’s conferences, events and book readings. She loves to have fun and to help other women have the same in their lives. Email: titi.oyemade@gmail.com Social: @tiipreeofficial