In this thought-provoking episode, host Seun Adeniyi is in conversation with Stanley J. Onyemechalu, a Gates Cambridge Scholar and PhD candidate at the University of Cambridge. Stanley’s research delves into the intersections of cultural heritage and the legacies of violent conflict, particularly in relation to the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970). His work led to the creation of the Legacies of Biafra Heritage Project (LBHP), a public engagement initiative exploring how communities remember and interact with the war’s history.
The Origins of Stanley’s Research
Stanley’s journey into this field began during his secondary school years in Eastern Nigeria, where he noticed how frequently older generations referenced the war in their conversations. However, he realized that there was a gap in formal education about the conflict. This curiosity eventually led him to study the war’s impact on cultural heritage, first in his master’s thesis and now as part of his PhD at Cambridge.
The Legacies of Biafra Heritage Project (LBHP)
Stanley describes LBHP as a means of democratizing knowledge, using ethnographic research, oral history interviews, and archival material to engage with communities directly affected by the war. Through exhibitions, storytelling, art contests, and intergenerational dialogues, the project fosters discussions between younger and older generations about the conflict’s impact.
Key Findings & Challenges
One striking discovery was how the war influenced cultural practices, such as food traditions. Stanley highlighted how foods like “abacha” (African salad) and “okporoko” (stockfish) became dietary staples and delicacies due to the war’s economic hardships. Another significant revelation was how dance and music evolved during the war, with some surviving as cultural practices today. However, engaging with the public came with challenges, including security concerns, government sensitivities around Biafra-related discussions, and limited archival preservation efforts in Nigeria.
The Importance of Collaboration
Stanley emphasized the crucial role of partnerships in making his project a success. Collaborations with institutions like the Centre for Memories in Enugu, media organizations, and academic bodies provided credibility and access to vital resources. He also stressed the need for funding and support for digitizing fragile historical records.
Lessons for the Future
Reflecting on the differences between colonial and civil war legacies of violence, Stanley highlighted the need for better historical preservation, greater academic engagement with affected communities, and the importance of fostering reconciliation through storytelling and dialogue. He urged young researchers to establish strong community connections, seek funding, and adopt evidence-based approaches in their work.
Host: Seun Adeniyi
Guest: Stanley Jachike Onyemechalu- Director, Legacies of Biafra Heritage project (LBHP)
Duration: 1hr 25mins
Release Date: 1st May 2025
