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In Second Class Citizen, Buchi Emecheta exposes the oppressions of patriarchy, gendered roles, racism, and colonial legacies through the life of Adah Ofili. Published in 1974, the themes of the novel remain relevant in the 21st century as they expose how African women are treated as lesser humans in their homes and how Black immigrant women are doubly marginalised—as women and as foreigners.
From birth, Adah Ofili is seen as a second-class citizen, and patriarchy defines her place. Her parents chose not to record her birth, and her education is considered less important than her brother’s. Yet, Adah insists on being educated, building a career, and defies gender expectations. However, her marriage to Francis becomes an opportunity for her subjugation.
Through Second Class Citizen, Buchi Emecheta tells how Adah is marginalised in her home and in a foreign land. This dual oppression reflects the real struggle of African women in the diaspora who are battling patriarchy internally and racism externally.
Despite crushing challenges, Adah earns her income, pursues her writing, and eventually rejects Francis’s authority. Her journey highlights that women’s liberation lies in financial independence, education, and reclaiming their voices. The novel is a call for women to reclaim their rightful place as first-class citizens in every sphere of life.
