Former lawmaker and veteran writer, Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, PhD, is set to officially present five new books to the public in Abuja on November 5, 2026.
Speaking during a press conference in Calabar on Tuesday, Duke called on Nigerians, particularly those from the Niger Delta, to document their personal histories and regional narratives rather than leaving them to outsiders.
Outlining plans for the upcoming literary showcase, he revealed that the collection comprises three prose works and two poetry anthologies, addressing historical accounts of the Nigerian Civil War, contemporary life in Cross River State, and personal reflections.
Among the publications, the literary sage picked Welcome to Uyo: The Nigerian Civil War Through the Eyes of a Calabar Child (1967–1970) as his “magnum opus.” The book detailed his childhood experiences in Uyo during the civil war, highlighting the tragic reality of lives lost, humanitarian crises, and the lack of relief reaching the local population.
“Why I documented this? Strictly because Uyo was the headquarters of refugees in our region. Millions and thousands were dying every day. You see your classmate in the morning, and the next day the classmate is dead,” Duke recounted. “I took time and documented our experiences because until and unless the lion writes its own story, every story about the hunt shall glorify the hunter.”
The five titles set for public presentation are Treasures, Welcome to Uyo, Calabar Modern Stories, Oluchi’s Journey and Winnowing.
The public presentation will feature reviews by prominent scholars and public intellectuals, including renowned journalist, Dr Reuben Abati, alongside professors and university dons from the University of Uyo and the University of Calabar, respectively.
Duke explained that his drive to complete his PhD and publish multiple manuscripts stems from a desire to inspire others to finish what they start. He disclosed that an additional five completed manuscripts are already slated for future publication.
Reflecting on his past political activities, including his detention following the June 12 election crisis and his efforts alongside prominent pro-democracy figures, the literary icon harped on the importance of record-keeping. He challenged professional bodies, such as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), to publish collective works to preserve contemporary institutional memory.
“Don’t just leave your work; put it out there. Move it to digital platforms or libraries. You are one step to immortality when you document your history,” he urged.
The renowned author, however, used the opportunity to express his condolences to the media community on the recent passing of veteran journalist, Anietie Ben Akpan. He also presented copies of his books to the NUJ, and extended an open invitation to the state council and the general public to attend the Abuja book presentation.
