ABSTRACT
Nigeria has witnessed a steady development in modern drama consciousness with reference to class struggle. As Johnson (2001) accurately opines, this is self-evident in the plethora of published and unpublished dramatic works that presently adumbrate the literary, dramatic and theatrical landscape of the country. There is an evident reality of class division between the upper class and other classes and ironically, the upper class still finds a way to oppress and limit this classes manipulatively. Hence this is what Olu Obafemi demonstrate in his text entitled Suicide Syndrome which this research will uncover.
The methodology employed in this research is the qualitative method. Data was obtained from the aforementioned primary text as well as secondary materials from online publications, journals, articles among others.
The study discovers that in Olu Obafemi's Suicide Syndrome with deliberate literary styles such as dialogue, satire, setting, language and characterization, Obafemi exposes the issue of class conflict and economic struggle pervading the Nigerian society. Certain class of people are restricted and economically sideline, however there is need for change.
The study concludes that unlike traditional writers who tended to have lingered on imperial legacy, domineering images and past glory while contemporary issues affecting the Nigeria society were set aside. Olu Obafemi sees the need to challenge these unethical practices with a stretch to criticize societal tensions through the use of deliberate literary styles.
