Créatif: Eriata Oribhabor, The Connoisseur of Poetry

Eriata Oribhabor was born and raised in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria. He grew up as the third of eight boys in a humble household.

Eriata Oribhabor, The Connoisseur of Poetry 

Eriata Oribhabor was born and raised in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria. He grew up as the third of eight boys in a humble household. His father, Prince Eriata Idoni Oribhabor, worked as a night watchman and labourer roles that grounded young Eriata in the values of hard work, humility, and perseverance. It was in this modest upbringing that his love for language, storytelling, and poetry was first nurtured. Though he pursued a degree in Political Science and worked for several years as a civil servant in cities like Abuja, Lagos, and Kaduna, Eriata’s heart was firmly rooted in literature. Eventually, he made the bold decision to leave public service and devote himself entirely to poetry and literary activism.

“I have always wanted to use the tool of poetry as a vehicle for imparting people and society,” he once said.

Eriata is one of the most prominent advocates of Naija Languej, a stylized and standardized version of Nigerian Pidgin. Through his groundbreaking work, he elevated Pidgin from everyday street conversation to a respected literary medium. His debut poetry collection, Abuja na Kpangba an Oda Puem‑Dem (2011), marked a bold literary step that would define his career. He went on to author and edit several works in Pidgin including: If You Hear Sey I De Prizin, Amebo Yard, One Leg Forward, Two Leg Backward.

These books use Pidgin to explore themes of identity, justice, societal dysfunction, and humour, proving that powerful messages can be delivered in indigenous languages without losing their depth.

Eriata’s contributions go far beyond writing. As a former Chairman of the Abuja chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), he rejuvenated literary discourse in the region through open readings, mentorship programs, and community engagement. He is the Founder and President of Poets In Nigeria (PIN) an influential literary movement that has birthed dozens of creative hubs across the country. Through PIN, Eriata has spearheaded over 20 literary initiatives, including poetry contests, photography-poetry collaborations, spoken word challenges, and national poetry residencies. These initiatives have created vibrant platforms for both emerging and established poets to grow and be heard. In addition, he runs Something For Everybody Ventures (SFEV), a publishing outfit and literary development platform dedicated to supporting young writers with mentorship, publishing opportunities, and exposure.

Popularly known as the “Merchant of Poetry, and fondly called “Di-Poet”” Eriata is celebrated for his generous spirit. He has funded and supported numerous poetry projects, often from his personal resources. One of his most enduring legacies is the Eriata Oribhabor Poetry Prize (EOPP), launched in 2012. The annual competition has uncovered and rewarded some of Nigeria’s most promising poetic talents, encouraging the growth of a new generation of socially conscious writers.

In June 2023, Eriata celebrated his 60th birthday and marked a significant milestone with the unveiling of 30 books which he either authored or edited—an extraordinary feat that reflects his unwavering commitment to the literary arts and community development. His first collection written in English is titled “Cross Roads and The Rubicon”.

Eriata Oribhabor’s journey—from the streets of Warri to the forefront of Nigeria’s literary scene—is a shining example of how art can inspire, uplift, and transform. He is a poet, editor, mentor, cultural advocate, and builder of platforms for others. His life is a testament to the belief that language, in all its forms, can be a powerful force for change. Through his work, Eriata invites us to reimagine poetry not as an elite indulgence but as a communal, accessible, and transformative art, one that speaks to every Nigerian, in every tongue.