Abstract

This paper explored the role of literature in the moral upbringing of children in Nigeria against the backdrop of corruption and insecurity. Using the moral approach to literary criticism, the paper examined the views of scholars on the importance of good children’s literature right from the classical period to the contemporary era. Scholars have always believed that it is very important and pertinent that children are given good literature to read in order to help mold their morals at an early stage. The paper concluded by looking at how Echendu (2020) has used his children’s prose Emeka and the Armed Robbers to inculcate good morals to his readers (children).

Keywords: Children’s Literature, Moral Approach, Criticism, Corruption, Insecurity.