This article critically explores the irony of independence in Africa as depicted in Sarah Ladipo Manyika’s In Dependence, questioning whether the continent has truly attained autonomy or remains ensnared by colonial legacies. While post-independence discourse often assumes sovereignty, little attention has been paid to how colonial structures persist. Employing postcolonial theory, the study frames independence as an ongoing negotiation rather than a completed event. It interrogates the irony of independence and the continuities of power after colonialism.  Through qualitative textual analysis and close reading, the paper examines the novel’s representation of historical structures, cultural narratives, and political—economic systems. The analysis reveals that African states remain constrained by neocolonialism, as external powers continue to influence them through trade agreements and political alliances. It further shows how enduring colonial structures and narratives compromise national sovereignty and limit self-determination, despite some post-independence advancements. Ultimately, the article argues for the necessity of a critical reassessment of pathways toward empowerment and authentic autonomy for African countries