waiting for chineke

waiting for chineke is a satirical exploration of the universal dynamics of faith, authority, and the human tendency to wait for salvation promised by divine figures. inspired by samuel beckett’s waiting for godot—a landmark in the theatre of the absurd—this project draws parallels between the endless waiting in beckett’s play and the perpetual anticipation of a messianic return often central to christianity worldwide. in waiting for godot, vladimir and estragon wait in vain for the mysterious godot, who continually promises to appear but never does. similarly, waiting for chineke interrogates the cycles of hope and unfulfilled promises that shape religious devotion.

this subject matter is deeply personal, rooted in my weekly experiences growing up in my father’s church. as a prophet and clergyman in love and faith gospel ministry—a pentecostal church typical of those scattered across lagos and nigeria—my father embodied a brand of christianity that prophesied doom while teaching members to “wait upon the lord” because “jesus is coming very soon.” witnessing the pattern, and unshakable belief systems within the church sparked my curiosity about the broader socio-religious structures that fuel such faith.

at the heart of waiting for chineke is a critique of how religious leaders—often self-proclaimed “men of god”—assert divine authority, claiming to be “called by god” to lead their congregations. these figures frequently use their positions to consolidate power and material wealth, thriving off the hopes and fears of their followers. the prolonged delay of a messianic figure’s return often leaves communities caught in cycles of waiting, where spiritual anticipation is intertwined with manipulation and exploitation.