FATHERS OF NATIONS EXCERPTS QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS
Read the excerpt below and answer the questions that follow. (25 marks)
“Then, answer my question.””l see I had totally misjudged you, Ms. McKenzie.” He had seen a Iamb: vulnerable. Now he saw a lioness: dangerous. “l thought you were a proper good-mannered journalist. Instead, I just see one of those fire eaters who confuse journalism with bad manners.””Dr. Afolabi, you haven’t answered my…””What joy do you get out of being rude to those you interview? You like watching them explode from anger and then bleed, is that it? Fine, but we have just met? What did I do that offended you?””Let me put my question another way, Dr. Afolabi; Why did you come to this summit? “Correction: I didn’t come; I was invited. That means presidents wanted me here, Repeat: presidents. They saw merit in the book you dismiss as pessimistic and wanted me to assure them that Way Omega agrees with it. So who cares what you think? What do you know about books, anyway? Let me tell you something else, Ms.McKenzie…” He changed his mind-a voice inside him was saying he had become too defensive. “On further thought, let me not. I don’t think I have to defend my book before anyone, least of all before a third-rate reporter for the Zambian News:”Gambian, she said.’Whatever!””All right, Dr. Afolabi. Now can you think through your book and give me an example, a specific example, on which Way Omega agrees with your book?”‘Yes, I can.”
QUESTIONS
‘Then answer my question.’ Which question has Ms. McKenzie asked Dr. Afolabi? (2marks)
Ms. McKenzie asked Dr. Afolabi the question, “Why did you come to this summit?” [2]. She wanted to understand his motives for attending the summit and what he hoped to achieve through his participation. However, Dr. Afolabi’s response indicated a sense of defensiveness, dismissing her question and emphasizing that he was invited by presidents who saw merit in his book [2][6]. He also questioned her knowledge and qualifications as a journalist, displaying a confrontational attitude [6]. It is clear from the interaction that Ms. McKenzie’s question triggered a defensive response from Dr. Afolabi, leading to a heated exchange between them.
Dr. Afolabi says that he does not think he has to defend his book before anyone. What is the title of his book? (1 mark)
Dr. Afolabi’s book is titled “Failure of States” [1]. This book explores the challenges and shortcomings faced by African states in their development efforts. It delves into topics such as governance, political instability, economic struggles, and social issues that hinder the progress of African nations. The book aims to shed light on the root causes of these failures and offers insights into potential solutions for the development and transformation of the continent. Dr. Afolabi’s work has garnered attention and recognition, leading to his involvement in important debates and discussions at the Pinnacle Hotel summit [1].
From the information in this excerpt, describe the character of Dr. Afolabi. (6 marks)
Dr. Afolabi, as portrayed in the excerpt, exhibits several distinct character traits. Firstly, he appears to be assertive and authoritative in his interactions with others. He is not hesitant to give orders and expects them to be obeyed without question [2]. This assertiveness is evident when he demands obedience from Professor Kimani and Pastor Chiamaka [2]. It suggests that Dr. Afolabi is accustomed to having control and expects others to follow his lead.
Secondly, Dr. Afolabi is portrayed as secretive and guarded about his personal life. When questioned about his identity, he simply identifies himself as a guide and avoids revealing more [2]. This secrecy is further highlighted by his refusal to disclose certain matters to his wife, Pamela, even when it involves potential changes in their marital life [2][4]. It indicates that Dr. Afolabi prefers to keep certain aspects of his life hidden and takes measures to maintain confidentiality.
Additionally, Dr. Afolabi displays a defensive attitude and a sense of superiority. When Ms. McKenzie asks him a question, he responds with a defensive remark, stating that he doesn’t feel the need to defend his book [6]. This suggests that Dr. Afolabi believes in the merit of his work and has a certain level of confidence in his knowledge and expertise. His confrontational response to Ms. McKenzie’s question also indicates a level of arrogance and a belief that he is above being questioned or challenged.
Furthermore, Dr. Afolabi shows a commitment to his work and a desire for recognition. His involvement in the summit and the attention his book has garnered demonstrate his dedication to addressing the challenges faced by African states [1]. The fact that he was invited by presidents indicates that his ideas hold significance and garner respect among influential figures [2]. This suggests that Dr. Afolabi is driven by a desire for recognition and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
In conclusion, Dr. Afolabi’s character can be described as assertive, secretive, defensive, and driven. He exhibits assertiveness in his interactions, maintains secrecy about his personal life, displays defensiveness when questioned, and is motivated by a desire for recognition and impact.
Using clear illustrations, identify two styles used in the excerpt. (4 marks)
In the excerpt, two styles can be identified: Dialogue and Authoritative style.
- Dialogue: Dialogue is a prominent style used in the excerpt. It is a direct conversation between two or more characters or groups of people [2]. The dialogue between Dr. Afolabi and various individuals, such as Mr. Abiola, Tad Longway, and Ms. McKenzie, serves to activate conflicts and dramatize the interactions [2]. For instance, the conversation between Dr. Afolabi and Ms. McKenzie reveals his defensive attitude when she asks him about defending his book [6]. This style of direct conversation adds depth to the characters’ interactions and helps to convey their personalities and attitudes.
- Authoritative: The authoritative style is also evident in the excerpt. Dr. Afolabi exhibits assertiveness and authority in his interactions with others [2]. He gives orders and expects them to be obeyed without question [3]. This authoritative style is exemplified when he demands obedience from Professor Kimani and Pastor Chiamaka [3]. It conveys Dr. Afolabi’s confidence in his knowledge and expertise and suggests that he is accustomed to having control and expects others to follow his lead.
In conclusion, the two styles used in the excerpt are dialogue and authoritative. The dialogue style brings characters to life and adds depth to their interactions, while the authoritative style conveys Dr. Afolabi’s assertiveness and control in his dealings with others.
What is Dr. Afolabi’s role during the heads of state summit? (2 marks)
Dr. Afolabi’s role during the heads of state summit is that of an advisor to the heads of state [1]. He is responsible for providing guidance and insights to the leaders during the debate and helping them make informed decisions [1]. His expertise and knowledge in planning have earned him the trust and respect of Africa’s ministers, which is why he has been chosen for this important role [1]. Dr. Afolabi’s task is to analyze and balance his views on the two documents being debated, Way Omega and Path Alpha, and provide valuable advice to the summit [2][4]. He has studied both documents closely and believes it is his duty to offer a fair assessment of each [2][4]. Dr. Afolabi’s role as an advisor is crucial in shaping the outcome of the summit and guiding the leaders towards a common development strategy for Africa [1].
From what Dr. Afolabi explains to Ms. McKenzie, describe what Way Omega entails. (3 marks)
Way Omega, as explained by Dr. Afolabi to Ms. McKenzie, encompasses a vision for transforming Africa’s current state and bringing about positive change [1]. It proposes a new style of doing business on the continent, aiming to eliminate challenges such as military coups, rigged elections, civil wars, and ethnic clashes [1]. Dr. Afolabi emphasizes that if Way Omega is adopted, it would bring a breath of fresh air to Africa [6].
The exact details of Way Omega are not explicitly stated in the provided documents. However, based on Dr. Afolabi’s description, it can be inferred that Way Omega is a comprehensive approach that seeks to address the root causes of political instability, corruption, and conflict in Africa [1]. It likely involves implementing governance reforms, promoting democratic processes, and fostering peace and unity among African nations. Way Omega may also involve economic development strategies that aim to uplift the continent and create opportunities for sustainable growth.
Overall, Way Omega represents a transformative vision for Africa, offering a new path forward that is free from the challenges and setbacks that have plagued the continent in the past. It envisions a future where Africa can thrive and overcome its historical obstacles to achieve peace, stability, and prosperity.
What happens immediately after this excerpt? (3 marks)
Immediately after Dr. Afolabi’s explanation of Way Omega to Ms. McKenzie, he informs her that the answer to whether the summit will adopt Way Omega will be known in twelve hours [5]. This suggests that there is a timeline or deadline for the decision-making process.
Dr. Afolabi then reveals to Ms. McKenzie that he encountered Mr. Tad Longway, whom he knows and works with, and that Mr. Longway is guiding four other individuals to advocate for Path Alpha instead of Way Omega [5]. Ms. McKenzie is shocked by this revelation, and Dr. Afolabi asks her to keep it to herself, indicating the sensitive nature of the situation [5].
Furthermore, Dr. Afolabi explains that the challenge lies in the fact that Path Alpha is not even on the summit’s agenda, and Mr. Longway and his group want Dr. Afolabi’s help to get it included [5]. This implies that there is a strategic effort to introduce Path Alpha as an alternative to Way Omega, despite it not being officially on the agenda.
Dr. Afolabi’s role as an advisor is further highlighted, as he mentions that he has studied both Way Omega and Path Alpha closely [4]. He believes it is his duty to offer a fair assessment of each document and provide valuable guidance to the summit [2][4].
Overall, immediately after explaining Way Omega to Ms. McKenzie, Dr. Afolabi acknowledges the presence of a rival group advocating for Path Alpha and the challenge of getting it on the summit’s agenda. The decision on whether Way Omega will be adopted is pending and will be revealed in twelve hours.
Give the meaning of the following words as used in the excerpt. (4 marks)
- (i) Vulnerable
- (ii) Pessimistic
- (iii)Defensive
- (iv) Thir
- (i) Vulnerable: In the excerpt, the word “vulnerable” refers to being susceptible to harm or attack [2]. It implies a state of being defenseless or easily affected by negative circumstances or actions. Dr. Afolabi questions Ms. McKenzie’s use of the word “pessimistic” to describe his book, suggesting that her perception of his work may have portrayed Africa as vulnerable and exposed to potential problems [1].
- (ii) Pessimistic: The term “pessimistic” describes a negative outlook or belief that things will turn out badly [1]. In the context of the excerpt, Ms. McKenzie questions Dr. Afolabi about his change in optimism towards Africa’s future, considering his previous pessimistic views expressed in his book [1]. It implies that Dr. Afolabi had a gloomy or less hopeful perspective on Africa’s prospects.
- (iii) Defensive: The word “defensive” refers to a protective or self-protective attitude or behavior [1]. In the excerpt, Dr. Afolabi’s response to Ms. McKenzie’s question about his previous pessimism suggests that he becomes defensive and dismissive of her perception of his book [1]. He feels judged and misunderstood, leading to a defensive stance in his interaction with Ms. McKenzie [1].
- (iv) Third-rate: The term “third-rate” is used to describe something of low quality, inferior or substandard [1]. In the excerpt, the word is not explicitly used, but it can be inferred from Dr. Afolabi’s reaction to Ms. McKenzie’s comment about his book being pessimistic [1]. He questions her use of the word and implies that it may not accurately represent the content of his book, indicating that he believes his work is not of inferior quality or substandard [1].
