The different perspectives of the three protagonists portray the different attitudes of people in this post-colonial country.  All three characters come from an educated and Western background and have been influenced by the priorities of European culture.  Sam views the different groups as slaves to be controlled and managed, not capable of leadership, and useful only as supporters of his regime.  Sam represents, with this perspective, imperialistic power.  Ikem views the people as lost lambs needing to be saved.  He believes that the people do not understand their situation and that he must force a revolution.  Ikem, although with good intentions, is almost as narrow-minded as Sam.  Chris is the only character who begins to once again see the beauty of his country and its people.  He respects the people and recognizes the validity of their complaints.  He sees them as fellow countrymen/women just trying to survive in the new regime.  He is the balance and the voice of reason, trying to work within the new regime to bring his country forward.