Chinua Achebe’s family rejects link to foundation
By Jeffrey Agbo
Chinua Achebe Estate, the recognised custodians of the Achebe legacy, has warned against the unauthorised use of the name of Chinua Achebe, or any reference to the Chinua Achebe Estate, in connection with any venture, project, promotion or representation.
This followed the establishment of a certain Achebe Hope Foundation by a man who claims to be Achebe’s nephew, Alex Achebe.
A statement by the Achebe Estate said such unauthorised use “must cease immediately”.
The Chinua Achebe Estate said it has recently become aware of instances in which individuals and/or organizations have invoked the name of Chinua Achebe and referenced the Chinua Achebe Estate in connection with ventures, projects, promotional materials, and public representations without authorization.
“These actions falsely imply endorsement, partnership, or affiliation with the Estate and risk misleading the public, institutions, and potential collaborators,” the Estate stated.
Continuing, the estate averred, “We are grateful to God that Chinua Achebe is one of the most respected literary figures in modern history, and his legacy represents an intellectual, cultural, and moral heritage of global significance. The Estate is responsible for safeguarding that legacy and ensuring that Achebe’s name, likeness, and intellectual heritage are used with integrity, accuracy, and proper authorization.”
Insisting that unauthorized references to Chinua Achebe or the Estate not only misrepresent the Estate’s position but also undermine the standards of stewardship established to preserve the author’s legacy, it stated that it, therefore, takes such matters seriously and will act when necessary to prevent misuse or misrepresentation.
“No individual or organization is permitted to use the name, likeness, legacy, or institutional authority of Chinua Achebe or the Chinua Achebe Estate without prior written authorization from the Estate,” the statement added.
“The Estate therefore calls on all parties currently invoking Chinua Achebe’s name or representing any affiliation with the Chinua Achebe Estate without such authorization to immediately cease and desist from doing so.
“The Estate remains committed to safeguarding the integrity, legacy, and intellectual and moral rights associated with Chinua Achebe. Failure to comply with this notice will compel the Estate to pursue all appropriate actions necessary to protect these rights and preserve the integrity of Chinua Achebe’s enduring legacy.”
