Glitz and Glamour as the Battle of Stanzas Changes the Paradigm of Poetry Events in Nigeria

...births the First Anthology of Poems in Edo State

By : Miss Blessing Osabouhien Aguebor

It was like the re-enactment of the Oscars, as resplendently dressed poets and poets enthusiasts converged on the most exquisite event destination in Benin City.
The Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub to attend the much anticipated Poetry Event tagged " The Battle of Stanzas, organised by the Benin Writers Society led by Douglas Ogbankwa Esq and the Naija Poetry Fest led by Godon Osarenren.

The event was headlined by the Commissioner of Police, Edo State,
CP Monday Agbonika FDC, Internationally acclaimed thespian and teacher -Pastor Mike Omoregbee, The CEO of Poets in Nigeria (PIN)-Eriata Oribhabor, Professor of History from the prestigious Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma -Professor Eunice Omozejie , a representative of the the Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Arts,Culture and Tourism-Mr. Osaretin Ero, former President of Benin Club - Pharm. Fred E.Iboi , the Director of Edo Innovative Hub-Jobina Ehi Arinze , Mr. Emmanuel Nekpen, known Benin Poet -Aiko Ebobaigbe , Fashionpreneur -Hon Kingsley Ogini, business man -Mr
Michael Otasowie, entertainers -Mc Fasodo and Mc Koffi, among others .

The programme peaked with the launch of the anthology "Stanzas from the Bronze Capital " to the admiration of the audience. The anthology which is the first of its kind in Edo State , is a 109 page of poetry master piece that resonates around the theme of its title.

The event featured a poetry competition that had about 22 poets from an 11 year old poet to a 67 year old poet .The competition was won by one Oghenevho, who was picked based on his originality , creativity, and performance.

The organisers of the event - Benin Writers Society and Naija Poetry Fest pioneered the use of the first ever digital and indoor red carpet in Edo State. It was an ingenious momemt for all to behold, as attendees adorned the red carpet in an environment of comfort inside an air-conditioned cinema hall .

Poets came from all across Nigeria for the event, and it was a re-enactment of the golden days of Nigerian Poetry.