Osogo as a Courageous Fighter for Justice in Parliament of Owls

“Justice can only be achieved when the oppressed are determined to expose the ills from their

leaders.” Closely referring to Osogo in Parliament of Owls, write an essay to justify this

statement.

 Osogo as a Courageous Fighter for Justice in Parliament of Owls

For people to achieve fairness, justice and liberation in society, they need individuals who possess courage, determination and the willingness to challenge oppression. In Parliament of Owls by Adipo Sidang, Osogo emerges as a brave bird who refuses to remain silent when his fellow birds are mistreated. He openly challenges the Royal Owls, exposes their oppressive practices and supports efforts to overthrow their unjust rule. Through his actions, Osogo becomes an important symbol of resistance and the struggle for justice.

First, Osogo courageously condemns the assassination and killing of innocent birds by the Royal Owls. The Royal Owls use violence to silence those who oppose their leadership. In an attempt to eliminate Osogo, thirty-three weaverbirds are massacred. Instead of being intimidated by these killings, Osogo openly criticises the leaders for allowing such brutality to continue. He challenges Red String and accuses the Parliament of Owls of doing nothing to stop the killings. He further reminds Moneybag that he has caused the deaths of his own people and warns him that he will eventually be held accountable for his actions. Osogo's willingness to speak against political killings demonstrates his bravery and commitment to justice.

Secondly, Osogo challenges the oppressive moonlight law. The Royal Owls introduce laws that restrict the freedom of ordinary birds. For instance, birds are prohibited from flying from tree to tree or moving without authorisation after six o'clock in the evening. However, the Royal Owls themselves disregard these regulations. Osogo boldly confronts Red String and exposes this hypocrisy. He points out that the rulers make laws and break them whenever it suits their interests. He therefore refuses to accept laws that favour the ruling class while oppressing the ordinary birds. His criticism demonstrates his determination to fight against unjust laws.

Furthermore, Osogo exposes the Royal Owls' use of the python to terrorise their opponents. Moneybag and his associates create insecurity among the birds and then use the situation to justify oppressive measures supposedly intended to protect the kingdom. Osogo courageously challenges the official propaganda that the kingdom is safe and that the neighbouring snakes pose no threat. He reveals that the python is actually associated with the Royal Owl leadership and is used to punish their enemies. The python therefore becomes a symbol of political violence and intimidation. By exposing this scheme, Osogo demonstrates that he is willing to reveal the truth even when doing so puts his own life at risk.

In addition, Osogo uses the flute as an instrument of resistance. The flute serves as a means of communication and a symbol of defiance against oppression. Through its music, Osogo alerts and encourages the day birds to remain vigilant. He also uses it to unsettle Moneybag, particularly when he warns him that he will eventually face the consequences of his actions. The sound of the flute frightens Moneybag and reminds him of the suffering he has caused. When Moneybag demands praise and worship from the birds, Osogo continues playing the flute, showing that he will not submit to intimidation. Thus, the flute becomes a powerful symbol of resistance and hope for liberation.

Finally, Osogo supports Oyundi in the struggle to overthrow Moneybag and the Royal Owls. Moneybag has participated in the oppression and killing of birds and has even brought Olik Tiga and the snakes into the affairs of the Parliament. When Oyundi turns against Moneybag and challenges the Royal Owl's leadership, Osogo supports him. The Royal Owl regards Osogo as a traitor and threatens to punish him, but Osogo remains committed to the cause of justice. He even predicts that Moneybag and his associates will eventually face justice for their crimes. His actions show that he is prepared to risk his safety for the freedom of the oppressed birds.

In conclusion, Osogo is presented as a courageous champion of justice and liberation in Parliament of Owls. He condemns political killings, challenges oppressive laws, exposes the use of the python as an instrument of terror, uses the flute as a symbol of resistance and supports the struggle against Moneybag and the Royal Owls. His courage teaches us that oppression can only be challenged when individuals are willing to speak out and act. Indeed, where there is a will, there is a way, and Osogo's determination demonstrates that courage and unity can eventually overcome oppression.