Irony of adultery
At the beginning of the story, Timi is in an abusive marriage with a violent and alcoholic husband. Her husband is portrayed as a loudmouth with a temper hence Timi and the children become victims of his outbursts. The final straw however occurs after Timi finds him cheating on her with another woman. Ironically, rather than the adulterer suffering from the consequences of this action, Timi and the kids are the ones thrown out. Subsequently, she also loses her job for being an unmarried woman which further fuels the irony of the situation.
The irony of Big Oil
The novel revolves around the oil crisis in Western Africa, particularly in the Niger Delta. It expounds on the implications the foreign oil companies have brought to the local communities. It is ironic that oil mining in Niger Delta brought more damages to the villages than opportunities. Though the companies invested in the region the local people are not offered jobs as they employ foreigners. Additionally, the oil spills and pollution have reduced the farms into wastelands, demonstrating the negative impact of Big Oil.
Irony of militarization
The author sheds some light on the topics of regional conflicts and militarization that afflict the region. Through the character Ezikiel, she expounds on the politics that surround the conflict between oil companies, youth militia, and the government. The clashes are fueled by the corruption that finds the government conniving with the foreign entities for self-serving affairs. In turn, keeping the region conflict-ridden by militarizing the police against the dissenters. Consequently, the militarization of the youth militia fighting the influence of the oil companies and the security forces.
Irony of tradition
The clash between African traditions and modernity acts as a basis of the story’s plot lines. Blessing is introduced to the traditions meant for women through her relocation to the rural area. Therefore illustrates the practice of customs such as female genital mutilation despite the negation by modern science. Ironically, a majority are aware of the negative impacts but continue practicing since they have to honor traditions.
