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In when we speak of nothing, Popoola takes on gender identity, Niger Delta

By Chuks Nwanne
12 August 2017   |   4:14 am
Germany-based Nigerian author Olumide Popoola has released her latest book, When We Speak Of Nothing, to commemorates 50 years since the partial decriminalisation of homosexuality in the United Kingdom.

Olumide Popoola

Germany-based Nigerian author Olumide Popoola has released her latest book, When We Speak Of Nothing, to commemorates 50 years since the partial decriminalisation of homosexuality in the United Kingdom.

The book is is a story of best mates Karl and Abu, both 17 and live near Kings Cross. Its 2011 and racial tensions are set to explode across London. Abu is infatuated with gorgeous classmate Nalini but dares not speak to her. Meanwhile, Karl is the target of the local “wannabe” thugs just for being different.

When Karl finds out his father lives in Nigeria, he decides that Port Harcourt is the best place to escape the sound and fury of London, and connect with a Dad he’s never known. Rejected on arrival, Karl befriends Nakale, an activist who wants to expose the ecocide in the Niger Delta to the world, and falls headlong for his feisty cousin Janoma.

Meanwhile, the murder of Mark Duggan triggers a full-scale riot in London. Abu finds himself in its midst, leading to a near-tragedy that forces Karl to race back home.

When We Speak of Nothing will be available in Nigeria from September 2017.

The Initiative for Equal Rights (TIERs) is a Nigeria-based registered non-for-profit organisation working to protect and promote the human rights of sexual minorities nationally and regionally. The body is committed to bringing about a society that is free from discrimination and harm on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity.

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