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James Ene Henshaw (1924-2007) - J.E. Henshaw - Cardiovascular Specialist & Literary Dramatist

Sun News
2nd Oct. '07

The Nigerian literati has lost one of its illustrious pioneers with the demise of James Ene Henshaw in his country home, Calabar, on August 16,2007 at the age of 83 years. Born in August 29, 1924, Henshaw commenced his academic pursuit at Duke Town Nursery School, Calabar in 1929. He later attended Sacred Heart School, Calabar and Christ the King College, Onitsha.

From 1943-1949, he was at the National University of Ireland for his medical education. In 1953, he went to the University of Wales Postgraduate School, Cardiff and specialized in cardiovascular and communicable diseases.

As a medical doctor, Henshaw distinguished himself and worked in varying capacities at home and abroad. He served the Eastern Region Government and the South Eastern State where he retired as the Director of Medical Services. He was also a Chief Consultant to the Rivers State Government.

Besides being a physician, teacher and administrator, Henshaw had a passion for writing which even popularized his name more than his professional calling. His foray into creative writing even as a medical student in Dublin qualified him as the foremost literary dramatist in Nigeria. His first published dramatic work, This is Our Chance, opened a floodgate of opportunities for other creative endeavours in that genre of literature.

Henshaw’s early play did to Nigerian literary drama what Amos Tutuola’s 'The Palmwine Drinkard' and later Chinua Achebe’s 'Things Fall Apart' did to the emergence of the Nigerian novel. Though his first play might not have commanded the kind of critical responses and acclaim of later literary dramatic output of Wole Soyinka, J.P Clark and Ola Rotimi, it was all the same the needed synergy that gave impetus to the journey to modern Nigerian drama.

Apart from 'This is Our Chance' published in 1957, Henshaw’s other published plays till date include 'Medicine For Love', 'Children of the Goddess', 'Dinner for Promotion', 'Enough is Enough', 'Companion for a Chief', 'Jewels of the Shrine' and 'Magic in the Blood' among others.

The loss of the pioneer playwright and humanist has robbed the nation one of its committed writers. During his lifetime, Henshaw was a devout Catholic as well as a responsible family man. He was described as a very organized person who lived a simple life devoid of undue materialism. His death was described as “the passing away of a quiet colossus.” Many commentators believe that his moral leadership guided his life. The late Henshaw was also known for his selflessness, hard work and his ability to mentor especially the young.

As a result of his modest achievement in life, he was conferred with the national honour of Officer of Order of the Niger (OON) by the Federal Government in addition to being a Knight in the Catholic Church.

Henshaw will be remembered for his humanitarian services to medicine and the arts where he has exhibited remarkable abilities. His dramaturgy, which might not be well expounded in technical details, is the toast of most school leavers who relish them with much gusto and excitement.
We suggest that the government should immortalize this patriot who served his fatherland with zeal and dedication to medicine and creative arts.

We commiserate with the members of his family and the Nigerian literary community on the passing away of the author of good plays. May the good Lord grant eternal repose to his creative soul.

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May we be strengthened with the ability, willingness and capabilities to be good ambassadors of Nigeria contributing to its uplifting, rather than its detriment. - Cxsm