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13/ Furthermore, to the indie authors who are worried about this shift: please rest and calm down. Book creators are incredibly reasonable. We understand that independent and self-published authors do not have the same massive corporate budgets. Many of us—myself included—actively offer pro-bono services and keep free slots open specifically to support indie authors and amplify their voices for the culture. We know how to support our own.

To see naija babe wey go cherish this kind bouquet wey no be money go hard. Forget all those “awwwnn” wey them dey do for the cs, nah only when white men do am e dey sweet them 😂😂

Official statement from me to the Nigerian Book Community, By now, many of you have seen the announcement that my novel, Path of Blood and River, a historical romantic Igbo fantasy set in the ancient Kingdom of Idemili, has been acquired for publication. Under different circumstances, this would have been a moment of shared celebration. However, I recognize that our community is currently navigating important conversations and advocating for better treatment within the industry. I want you to know that I have not ignored your concerns. I have reached out to the publishing house, and they have assured me that they are working internally to address the issues raised. Over the years, you have supported me, believed in my stories, and helped me build the career and community I cherish today. I do not take that for granted. I have dreamed of sharing this moment with you, celebrating this book, revealing its beautiful cover, and inviting you into the world I have spent years creating. Yet I also understand that the timing is difficult, and I respect the conversations currently taking place. I am not asking anyone to dismiss or abandon their grievances. They are valid. I simply ask, with humility, that you also hold space for an author whose work and years of labour are tied to this moment. I will continue engaging with my publisher and following these conversations closely. In the meantime, I ask for your understanding, your grace, and, if you are able, your continued support in any way you can (including engaging and sharing of...fliers and cover...? I know I am asking for too much, right?) If this is not something you can do right now, I completely understand and respect your decision. Thank you, as always, for reading, believing in my work, and walking this journey with me. It means more than I can express. With gratitude, Rosemary Okafor