Call To Duty # 20

"Kabiyesi o!"
"Arise. Chairman, hope all is well? I'm surprised to see you."
"Yes, Kabiyesi, I know you'll be and sincerely, I've come to fight with you!"
"Fight, why, what have I done?"
"I can't believe that you are capable of embarking on such a big project like that without letting me know of it"
"Which project?"
"The Census, Kabiyesi! Do you think I will not know about it?" The Local Government Chairman lamented. The King laughed.
"The Census, is that why you are so angry? Okay, I'm sorry. I didn't know you'll have  the time for such petty issues. I mean I've sent several emissaries to your Secretariat, in fact, I had gone there personally severally and I'll be told you are unavailable. Each time, I left a message hinting as to how important the issue I have come to discuss with you is to me.I would wait, hoping to hear from you and I'll come around again....it's the same story recurring over and over again.This is why I decided to stop coming and find an alternative. To God be the Glory, Chairman, you heard of just the Census abi? Well, I can assure you, more are still to come!" The King responded. The Chairman was silent for a while.
"Ehn...Kabiyesi...I'm sorry...you see,I am always very busy. As a matter of fact, I just forced out sometime to come over..."
"To fight?!"
"Ah - ah, no ooo...haba! Fight ke? I was just joking.It's just that I was not happy...I felt shortchanged  when I heard that you're about to embark on the Census of the town without consulting with me first..."
"Must I consult with you?"
"Ehn..not really, Kabiyesi, but you know that we are closer to the government than you and ..."
"Leave that one,my friend! Was that not why I've been visiting your secretariat so often,did you attend to me?"
"Kabiyesi,I know I've offended you and I'm here to make amends...I..I'm sorry...so sorry!" The Chairman said remorseful bowing gently in his seat. The King was happy. He had won.

"It's okay. It's all over" he said proudly.

"Thank you very much sir,for your understanding and your fatherly pardon,may you reign forever!" The Chairman prayed. The King laughed.

"Ashe" he responded.

--------------------------------------------------

It has been 3 days since Lara and her friend spoke concerning husband and wife matter. Lara is still having sleepless nights over the matter. She's still not satisfied. So she had to bring it up again.

"Keji,are you not scared of a second wife?" Lara asked.

"Second wife,what second wife... Lara,what are you talking about?"

"Akanni...should Akanni marry a second wife,how are you going to take it?" Lara asked directly. Keji,paused a bit to think about it. 

"I'll take it in good faith"

"Ehn,in good what? We are talking of a second woman in the house! God forbid!" Lara said. Keji smiled.

"If Akanni takes up another wife,I'll gladly welcome her to the house...after all 'Ka rin ka po,yiye ni nyeni'" Keji replied.

* It means that it pays to have more people around*

"Hey...Keji, I pity you!"

"Ehn,what do you want me to do about it? When a man is rich and bouyant enough,he marries a second,third even a fourth wife. It's not a new thing now!"

"Ha! Keji,do you know what you are saying?"

"I know exactly what I'm saying. I need help with Akanni...he's so demanding"

"Demanding...what could he possibly be demanding that you can't afford to give?"

"Sex!" Keji responded almost instantly. There was a momentary silence. Then the duo bursted into laughter.

"Whenever we are alone like this,he'll do it over and over again. When I asked if he'll get weary of sex. He said my body won't let that happen"

"Hmmm?"

"He said I'm so sexy that he feels like doing it all the time"

"Swear!"

"I swear!"

"Hey! That's serious!"

"Walahi" Keji confirms. There was another moment of silence.

"Well...can't you talk this over with him?"

"With who,as how,that he should stop being romantic or he should stop admiring me? No now,I can't do that. I can only speak out when I'm not in the mood which is very rare...make I no lie you,Akanni handles his business very well...so well that you'll wish to continue even when your body obviously have had enough!" Keji explained.

"I love him for that!"

"Wow!"

"Yes o!"

"Do you know that you'll be missing all that if he gets married to another woman?"

"No,I won't. The last thing Akanni would do is deny you your rights. He gives what is due to me even when there's a misunderstanding between us. I once asked him about it. Do you know what he said?"

"No,you tell me"

"He said that he would be queried by God if he doesn't do it"

"Ehn?!"

"Yes o! As you can now see,there's no reason why I would discourage him from taking up another wife. There are many reasons why I'll rather encourage than discourage him."

"Really?"

"Yes!"

"Enlighten me please!" Lara asked mockingly 

"Okay. My baby boy is now 3 years old and my eldest son is 12. If he gets married to another woman now,one,I shall be relieved of the sexual burden to a very high extent,two, I won't be cooking everyday anymore. I would gladly shed 4 days to the new wife which is fair enough. That's a lot of free time I can either spend resting or doing more business... I could go back to school and pick up a career of my choice....there are so many possibilities and positivities for me to turn it down. It's going to be a win-win situation all the way. Polygamy is not a curse...it all depends on how you see and take it. It can be a curse and it can be a source of blessings in abundance!" Keji explained. Her friend was watching in awe. Her friend,Keji is now a pro in marital matters and she didn't know.

"Wait a minute. Where did you learn all that stuff?" Lara inquired . Keji smiled.

"From my Grandma,an experienced wife in and from a polygamous family" Keji replied proudly.

"Hmm! No wonder!" Lara exclaimed. Keji laughed.

"So what you are saying is that you don't fear being abandoned by your husband or outperformed by the new wife?" Lara wanted to confirm.

"No. He won't abandon me because I'm  an attention seeker. If she outperforms me,I'll be very happy because I won't be missed badly when I'm away.I can concentrate on what I'll be doing and would only come around when I'm in need of that thing"

"Hey! Keji,I fear you o!"

"Why now?"

"You are so,so deep!" Lara said. Keji laughed.

"You blame me? No be my fault na,I have to be if I must enjoy life. Thanks to Grandma who has taken me up in her wings of experience!"

To be continued on Saturday!

Call To Duty #19

"Good Morning sir"
"Morning Sarah, how was your night?"
"Oh, splendid sir and yours sir"
"Okay, it's good to note. What can I do for you? As you can see, I'm kind of busy...very busy."
"Oh, sorry sir. I didn't mean to disturb...I'm here to apologize to you."
"Apologize...for what?" Kole demanded. Sarah was a little hesitant. Kole's facial expression was scary.
"It's okay...it's okay. What are you apologizing for?"
"Sir, I think it's obvious...we didn't mean to break your relationship with..."
"Apologies accepted"
"Sir?"
"You heard me. I forgive you, would you forgive me too?" Kole asked with a smile.
"Sir? You didn't offend us..."
"Oh, yes, I did and I'm truly sorry, please find it in your hearts to forgive me"
"Really?"
"Yes." Kole assures her. Sarah almost jumped for joy. She quickly called to Rhoda and Janet.
"You didn't tell me they came with you?"
"They did sir, we didn't know how you'll take the matter sir...that's why I came alone initially" Sarah explains. Kole laughed. Just about the same time, Rachael walked into the Staff room. The girls went jittery a little. Initially she frowned her face but on looking at Kole who gestured for her show restraint. This was what calmed her down. She walked past them and went straight to Kole and kissed him on his lips. The girls were shocked, Kole, too was surprised. Now, it was clear to the girls why Kole was so much at ease and was able to forgive them so quickly.

__________________________________________________

"Keji, a customer needs some of your containers. She promised to return them early tomorrow."
"Okay...but...tomorrow sha....mmmm....okay no problem, I'll see how I can manage without them today"
"I trust you, you can do anything for a customer"
"Yes o, they are our kings and queens, as a loyal servant, I can't afford not to please them." Keji smiled. Her friend winked laughing.
"Keji"
"Hmmm"
"I heard that your husband and his friends have gone to the city seeking greener pastures"
"That's true, I thought I told you about it"
"No, you didn't. But my concern is that joint ventures...."
"Don't you worry about that. Akanni had taken that to consideration.He had made sure that they are not trading in the same commodity for the same reason. When I asked him,he said that there are only two things that would bring them together, are transportation and acomodation. He said he would major only in vegetables and fruits in the nearest future while Jamiu would go for fish and Komolafe rice"
"Ehn? That's very good o!"
"Yes o"
"But why the city, why not right here in our town?" Lara inquired.
"Haba! Why are you talking like this, you mean to tell me that you don't know that farm products are hot cakes when they get to the city,how much do you expect him to make from vegetables in this town of ours where there so many that have a little garden of their own where they  they have planted their own vegetables? In the city, no one has that time, even when they do,the Land is too expensive for them to make profit quick enough from planting vegetables. This is not to mention that most people in the city see farming as a venture illiterates." Keji explains 

" Hmmm...that's true. But,what about his vulcanizing business? It will suffer fa!"

"Let it suffer,my friend, let it suffer! No be you be this,how much does make from it? So many times,my husband comes home empty handed. I have to come out of the pocket if we must not go to bed with empty stomachs." Keji retorted.

"Hmmm...I see"

"My friend,look at me now,just take a good look at me,am I not looking different now?"

"Yes,you are."

"That's because I now enjoy my husband and he enjoys me too. As we speak today,he's a man of means. We eat well now and have the time to sit down and discuss issues...sometimes it is in bed after a couple of rounds...you know?" Keji added winking at her friend.

"Hey! My friend! I trust you!!" Lara commented as she slams her a friend a hi five.

"So,my friend let it suffer while we enjoy" Keji concluded.

"Ehn...but,how long does he stay in the city. It's quite obvious that he's not home,is he?" Lara queried

"No,he isn't. Initially he goes and come back the same day. However,that's going to change now. He'll be in the city for 3 days in a week." Keji replied.

"Is that not too much?"

"Too much? I don't think so o. We have seven days in a week. My man goes to work for 3 full days and he'll be home for the remaining 4 days. To me,it's not too much"

"You don't understand ...this one that he has money now...eh-hen...don't you thinking..."

"That what, infidelity?"

"Yes,of course!" Lara answered firmly. Keji laughed.

"Who cares about that, oh, you think you can stop a man from womanizing? That's impossible..."

"It is possible...very possible" Lara interrupted

"I know it is when you are desperate to do so. But,let me ask you, how many women does well in managing things after turning their husbands into dummies?"

"I didn't say anything about turning one's husbands into dummies..."

"My sister,let me tell you the truth. Life is far more enjoyed when things take their natural causes. It's only natural that a man has full control of his home and his life. The moment a woman takes charge, there's a problem..."

"What problem,what are you talking about,why must it be the man all the time,what makes you think a woman too cannot do well as the head of the family...or even better? It's in Africa slaving for men...always taking orders!"

"Yes! That's the natural cause..."

"No,it's not,we are only made to think so. I mean look at the Oyinbo people,look at their land,they are the best people in the world...they are what they are today because they allow women to aspire and do as they wish just like men!" Lara argues. Her friend took a pause,looked at her for a while.

"How many of those women are happily married?" Keji asked.

"Ehn?"

"I asked how many of those women that are standing up to men are married?" Repeated the question. Her friend took a pause.

"What does it matter?"

"It matters a lot. If you get pregnant out of wedlock, you are a whore and your child a bastard"

"Who cares? We are in the civilized world...the Jet age. There are so many single mums today..."

"Who are all out preying on other women's husbands. They can't stay under a man, but,they have sex partners. Sex partners who have wives and children at home to cater for."

"No,I disagree with you. Most times,it's the men that come for them?"

"And why can't they say no?"

"Of course,they do,but...it's the men that keeps on pressing"

"They should report them to the Police!"

"Ehn?!"

"Yes now! When a person keeps on harrassing you,what do u do? You report him of course!" Keji affirmed. Lara was silent.

"Truth be told. Men need women and women need men. It's useless to deny this. The only legal way to have a man is to get married to one and if you must keep the relationship, you must acceptand respect the man as the head. If you have a complaint,present it humbly to him. If he bullies you and you don't want it to repeat itself,don't stand up to him,rather,play the weaker sex thing...stand up in the middle of the night and cry by his side. That's how he would listen and make amends. When you stand up to him,he get offended that you question his authority. So,he wouldn't listen. His main aim would be to subdue you by all means. Now,if all these does not go well with you then remain single and do not disturb or accept the husbands of those women that putting up with all the trials of marital life!" Keji concluded. Lara was still silent. She was looking at her friend all the while.

"Ehn-hen. Watch what you do to your husband so that no evil may befall you son or sons. He is someone's son...if you overwhelm him financially just because you don't want him to marry another wife,remember that your son would get married too!" Keji added as she stood up to get more palm oil.

To be continued on Wednesday!

Call To Duty #18

"Kaabiyesi o!"
"Rise"
"Thank you, your highness"
"Corper, you amuse me"
"How sir?" Adisa asked looking very concerned.
"Relax...it's okay. I'm just surprised as to your level of intelligence and the kind of confidence with which you comport yourself"The King explained. Adise heaved a sigh of relief.
"You see....I honestly don't know how to put it. You are like a God sent agent of progress.I don't know...have you had this plan in place before you were reportd to me or what...I mean...I just don't understand. This plan of yours is working out like magic!" The King continued. The Chiefs and Adisa laughed.
"Sir....to be honest, I've been nursing this idea right from school. I've always took pride in what I have and feel very embarrassed with the way we, Nigerians struggle tooth and nail seeking the so called greener pastures abroad. 'Coz, to me, Nigeria is far more blessed than those places. On thinking about the missing link, I realized that they, Westerners, take pride in what they have and do all they can to upgrade it all the time so that they may never have to depend on others, rather, the World should depend on them. Ever since I realized this, I've been developing models of development that's people oriented. Whenever I enter a new town, the first that comes to my mind is to propose the very best developmental model for the town. This was why I was talking so passionately about the town when I was caught. I've had this plan ready barely a week I entered Ijinle town. I asked about the town from teachers in the Community school who spoke freely about the town and it's current challenges.So, I was quick in getting a model in place" The Corper explained. Everyone present were thrilled to the bones.They couldn't believe what they've just heard.
"Wow!" The King broke the silence as he started clapping for the Corper. Everyone else joined him.
"Honestly, I never thought your type still exist. A Nigerian youth taking pride in his country's development...that's amazing!" The King commended.
"Well, people, there goes a lesson for everyone. If only we would appreciate our God given gifts enough to look inwards for the solutions we seek from people are not one of us and therefore, care less about us." The King continued. Everyone on seat nodded in agreement.
"according to the Youth leader, the Fundraiser system has been fruitful and the donations are already coming in. as we speak, I'm happy to inform you that we have enough to commence the Census!" The King announced and everyone applauded it.
"Corper"
"Sir, on behalf of the People of Ijinle town, I say 'Thank you'. Thank you for being so generous, thank you for being so compassionate, thank you for showing us the way....we honestly can't thank enough. Thank you, you so,so much...we really appreciate it!" The King concluded. The Corper was so glad that the King was done. He had been looking at the faces of his subjects who wre looking at the way and manner the King was showing gratitude to him. Some would gaze at him momentarily as if they need assurance that he hasn't bewitched their King. They probably haven't seen him do that before. The King seem to have noticed too.
"My people, you don't understand, I know...I only wish you know how valuable and inspiring the Corper's plan has been to me. I only got more inspired and elated just about now that he had revealed how he had been doing this everywhere he goes. What this simply means is that the Corper has a very good big heart...are alike in so many ways. Finally, I've found my type. all these time, I thought I was the only in the world that thinks the way I do. But,now, I'm glad to see that I'm not mad or abnormal. I'm just as normal as anyone else! Corper, thank you for coming to our rescue" The Kind said as he hugs the Corper who is so pleasantly shocked

________________________________________

Akanni, Komolafe and Jamiu, asusual have converged in the evening at Akanni's vulcanizer's spot under the tree.
"Akanni, how was the journey?"
"We thank God, it was quite enlightening and blissful"
"Enlightening you say?' Komolafe asked.
"Yes, I mean how do I qualify and experience that makes me things in some very different ways to the way I've been looking at them all my life?" Akanni asked.
"What happened, is it a bad idea to start a business afterall.....abeg, yearn us tory...all these suspense, I no dey gbadun them Wallahi!" Jamiu protested.
"No o! It is never a bad idea to start one's business in fact, from this journey, I learnt that it was the delay that was wrong!" Akanni informed his friends.
"Guys, honestly, we have been dulling ourselves lying idly here in Ijinle. Go to the state Capital go see how money dey fly around like flies!"
"Ehn" Jamiu commented
"Yes o!"
"Hey, hey! Abegi leave all that and let's talk better. We know that before now, is that not why we have decided that you embark on the journey in the first place?' Komolafe interrupted.
"I'm sorry I was just thrilled by what I discovered. My friends, this journey has really, really opened my eyes and mind. Instead of just going to the market to inquire about the prices, I went a little bit further by asking for the hot spots in town. My friends come see how many I got...there are dozens of such places. I decided to confirm the stories by visiting those places. You won't believe it,vegetables were selling for thrice the price I sell them!"
"Really, how about fish?" Jamiu inquired.
"That one, na jackpot! Rice too na die!" Akanni confirmed to his friends who jumped in excitement hailing him.
"Okay, okay, guys, when are we setting out?" Komolafe asked his very excited friends.
"Which kain question be that, who no want money? Next week of course!" Jamiu said.
"Yes, yes, next week...do we all agree?' Akanni asked.
"Yes" was the chorus from Komolafe and Akanni.

_____________________________________

Ever since the break up, Kole had not been himself. He has been living in the Shadow of himself. He was no longer active in school, even in the Corper's lodge, he just lock himself up after school. This has made the break up a popular gossip topic in town. Kole doesn't care, he has enough troubles of his own to bother about what people are saying.
He sits at his desk in school very early on Friday morning staring at the empty space in front of him. For while now, he's the first to get to school and he does nothing but just stare into space. Rachael was the first person to show up this particular morning.
"Good morning" she greeted but there was no response
"Morning" she greeted again still no answer. Rachael was surprised, she tapped him on the leg.
"Kole!" She shouted, Kole jolted back to life
"Hmmm, hmmm?!"
"Are you alright?" Rachael inquired. Kole wiped his face with his hands.
"Yes, yes I...I...am fine, thank you!" Kole responded and sat up on his seat. Rachael, felt sorry for him and looked around to see if there is anything she can do to help.
"I can see that you haven't marked the test scripts"
"Yea, yea.....I'm just about to get started with it"
"Why don't you let help with that"
"No,no, no it's okay I..."
"I insist....just make the marking scheme and let me help with it....please!"
"Alright"
"Thank you" Rachael smiled. Kole could only manage a flashing smile along with a sigh.


To be continued on Monday!

Call To Duty #17

Barely 4 weeks after the meeting in the Palace, the King had summoned the Youth leader to ask about the situation of things. He had given the order for the implementation of the Corper's fundraiser strategy which was so appealing that even he, himself had put in money.
The Corper had suggested a couple of town hall meetings in which the Corper had done a good job at arousing the public's interest in community development service and had given several examples of communities that run based on this system of development. The Corper had done this with the aid and contribution of the Professor who was more than ready to make a difference. They had just concluded the exercise only in the immediate past weekend. The King wants to know how the donations are going especially the one from indigenes in the diaspora.
"Kabiyesi o!"
"Aremu, how are you?"
"I'm fine, Kabiyesi, I saw the Messenger. He said you asked that I come immediately, hope all is well, Kabiyesi?" The Youth leader asked.
"Tor! You know about the latest happenings and I want to believe that you already know why I seek your presence at this time of the day"
"Kabiyesi...is it about the Fundraiser?"
"Yes, of course! How is it coming up, can we meet up?" The King asked looking a little worried. The Youth leader laughed.
"Kabiyesi, please don't be alarmed, everything is working out as expected...as a matter of fact, Kabiyesi, it's moving much faster than we expected. If you can re-call, Kabiyesi, the Corper had proposed that we raise our target so that we won't fall anywhere short?"
"Yes, I do?"
"Well, Kabiyesi, I'm very happy to tell you that we already have over Nine million Naira in our account and if the feedback from the Fundraiser system of the Corper is anything to go by, we shall be hitting, at least...fifty million"
"Fifty million!" The King exclaimed but quickly covered his mouth just after saying it loud.
"Fifty million Naira?" he whispered. Aremu laughed in amusement
"Yes, Kabiyesi, fifty million Naira"
"Wow! That's a lot of money!"
"Yes sir" Aremu responded. The King gestured that he moves closer.
"This must be a secret between us...me, the Corper and you!" the King whispered
"Yes sir"
"Not even the Balogun should hear of this, understand?"
"Yes sir"
"I want you to go fetch me the Corper, work should begin immediately!"
"Yes sir"
"Go, go go!"
"Yes sir...Kaaabiyesi o!"
"Rise and leave at once!"
"Yes sir!"
'Finally! It is happening...thank you God for sending me the Corper as a guiding angel...ha! Thank you Lord!' the King thought to himself as he leans back in his throne.


___________________________________________

"Hey! Akanni mi nikan sho-sho!" Keji had run to welcome her husband home. Akanni was pleasantly surprised. 'So she misses me! That's cool...very cool' He thought as he drops his luggage to welcome his darling wife in his arms. Keji gave him a warm hug that made his 'joystick' jump in his trousers. She kissed him passionately.
"Oh, Akanni, I missed you!"
"I missed you too, how is everything, how are you?" He asked
"Tor, I thank God, I'm fine. Did you miss me?"
"Of course I did, as a matter of fact, the past few days had been torturing...ask my friends, I was home sick!" He replied. Keji loved this response, it was what she hoped to hear.
"Oooooh, really?" she asked as she runs her right hand through Akanni's hair
"Yes..." Akanni affirms as he tries to conceal the ever increasing bulge in his trousers. Keji noticed soon enough. she laughed.
"You never change" She commented with a knowing smile. Akanni made her a face suggesting he's embarrassed.
"Come, let me take this" She said as she reached for his luggage.
"Thank you, babe" Keji looked back at him, smiled as she entered.

___________________________________________

"Good afternoon sir"
"Ah, Rhoda, how are you?"
"Fine sir, and you sir?"
"Oh, thank God. Wait a minute, sit down, I'll like to have a word with you"
"Okay sir, hope no problem sir?'
"mmm...not much. Rhoda, what is this that I hear about you?"
"What sir?"
"You and Corper Kole" Adisa inquired. Although a little worried, Rhoda flashed a smile
"Oh, that sir, so I heard too sir"
"Mmm, so you heard?"
"Yes sir...it...it...never happened" Rhoda stammered. Adisa giggled.
"Rhoda...hmmm...well, let me just let you in on some very important things you might not know"
"Okay sir" Rhoda responded as she sat up to listen.
"You see, Rhoda, to say the fact, you are a beautiful girl" Adisa started. Rhoda smiled pleasantly.
"Thank you sir"
"It's okay.But, you know, just like the flower, a women is....she sprouts open up her petals and glows to the admiration of the world."
"Yes sir" Rhoda agrees still smiling
"But, the unfortunate thing about the flower is that, just about the time it's noticed and cherished...as in, at its peak of fame, it withers away giving room for a fruit to develop in it stead." Adisa continued. Rhoda's smile faded.
"In the same way, a woman gradually looses her beauty as she ages. With time, she marries, bear children and settles down to the responsibility of motherhood and a good loyal wife" Adisa illustrates. By this time Rhoda was becoming uncomfortable.
"If you have messed up your life with extra marital sex, you might just not get to a chance of a settle home. This is because there are very good chances that you either get infected or get impregnated. When either of these happens to you,a blissful married life becomes elusive. That's the way it is" Adisa explains.He raises the head of Rhoda which was down cast in shame.
"Rhoda, you are like my kid sister, considering your staggering beauty, everyone shall come crawling on their kneels to have a feel of you...even if it's just a few minutes of touching, kissing and romancing....girl, you are not just beautiful but sexy!" Adisa said. Rhoda stole a gaze at him and looked away smile shyly.
"This is the more reason you'll have to be very careful with the way you comport yourself.You need to watch what you wear, how you walk...you may want to downplay your beauty and focus on your academics for now."
"down play my beauty...how?" Rhoda asked. Adisa sighed.
"You down play on your beauty when you change your slim fitted uniform for a moderate and less revealing one, you down play on your beauty when you pay les attention to admirers and more to your studies,you downplay on your beauty when you spend your nights reading instead of hanging out with friends...the list goes on and on"
"Hmmm...." she sighed.
"Rhoda, only responsible men...men that are ready to settle down would come for you when you downplay on your beauty...they are the only ones that can see through all the bulky clothing you might be wearing...please think about what I have said, put it in practice so that people may start to respect you. People respect only those who respect themselves. Wearing it skimpy is a disrespect that you inflict on yourself and people would follow suit in disrespecting you. I rest my case for now" Adisa concluded. Rhoda was speechless for a moment.
"Tha..thank you sir...I promise to change sir. I...I...thank you sir" She stammered
"It's okay Rhoda, I understand and I know that you've been acting ignorantly. But, thank God you now know better,my prayer is that God should see you through the transition you plan to make"
"Amen sir....I want to take leave sir"
"It's okay, you can go"
"Okay sir, bye sir"
"Bye"  Just as Rhoda took her leave, Shade showed up.
"What's up,how far?"
"not too far jare, how has been your day?"
"Fine o. we thank God...what were you doing with Rhoda?"
"Ah....just a heart to heart discussion. That's all"
"Hmmm, are you sure?"
"Ah-ah, what do you take me for sef?" Adisa queried. Shade gave  him a mockery look. Adisa understood and laughed.
"Listen...look here,I'm not Kole...everyone can not be a Kole"
"Tor, if you say so!"
"I know so!" adisa boasted
"Hmmm....can we go?"
"Yes...just give me a sec..."

To be continued on Saturday!

Call To Duty # 16

"Balogun"
"Yes"
"The Corper seem to like you, can you tell me the secret?" Iyalode inquired. Balogun cleared his throat as they walked through the Market.
"Well, if you must know, I don't know what makes the boy like me. It's also a surprise to me." Balogun responded
"Really, who is fooling who?'
"I honestly don't know. All I know is that I was initially opposed to him for the Blasphemy he committed. Instead of punishing him, The King decided to reward him by hearing him out. We both know that it wasn't a bad idea to have listened to him after all. I have liked him ever since myself. But why he liked me, I don't know." The Balogun asserted.
"Okay o! Ehn, but, Balogun, are you sure we are not taking this too far?"
"What?"
"The Corper's plans. To me, it still sound like a child's play! Things are hard enough for us to stir the waters. There we were talking about seeking the good will of the Governor, are you sure this won't take us several steps backwards in achieving that?" Iyalode complained
"Iyalode, I understand your fears. But when you take a good look at the King, he seems to be well pleased with the Corper's plans. As a matter of fact, I think the King wishes that he was the one that thought of these plans himself. I mean, he seem to understand the plans much better than the Corper himself!"
"Ehn?"
"Yes o! Just yesterday, after the Corper took his leave, The Prof was discussing with the King and I happened to be there, the prof was optimistic that the plans will work and as a matter of fact, deal a severe blow on the popularity of the Governor in our land. The King agreed and said that Ijinle town would soon become a must visit town for all!"
"Hmmm....ehn, but the Governor...."
"Iyalode, forget the Governor! who needs the Governor if Ijinle town is able to develop and sustain itself? Ever since our patronage of the Governor, what have we got to show from the relationship? We are the ones that have been giving and sustaining this little romance between us and the Governor. How much of development has he been able to bring to us? Honestly, I think the Corper is some sort of answer to our prayers as a neglected people of the state and the country together, let's give him a chance!" The Balogun Urges Iyalode.
"Eh, do we have a choice? The King is all over him, we'll have to follow suit...is it not for just 5 years?"
"Yes, that's is the most appealing part of the deal to me, if it doesn't work after 5 years,we'll simply close it up and try out something else."
"Toh! May God spare our lives" Iyalode concluded as they set to part ways.
"Amin" The Balogun responded as he walks away
"My regards to your little girl"
"Okay"

_____________________________________

"Akanni, have you heard"
"What?"
"The Corper with the big mouth....Corper Adisa is planning to make a head count of everyone in Ijinle. Is that possible?' Jamiu inquired
"Of course it is, it'll only take time"
"I was with the Geography teacher, Mr Ademola. He thinks it was a very good idea and that it would help the King make very good decisions in the future"
"Is that all the Corper has been blowing hot about?"
"No, I don't think so, from what the Youth leader said the last time we met, it's just one of several activities that would be executed in a 5 year plan to develop Ijinle town"
"Develop Ijinle town?" Akanni asked with eyes wide open
"Yes o! The Corper believes that Ijinle Town can develop without any government's intervention should the residents cooperate. The king has agreed with him and struck a 5 year deal with him" Jamiu explains
"Wow! That means good times are ahead....ehn, but would the Governor allow any other town develop more than the capital city?' Akanni asked
"That's something the Corper and the King are about to find out. As far as they are concerned, no one can stop Ijinle's development"
"Hm! I like that! I'm with them on this one!"
"Everyone seem to be...Akanni, for the first time, the whole town are agreeing on an issue...that haven't happened in a very long while now, you know?"
"Yes, it's a good sign and omen"
"Yea!"
"Abegi, leave that matter. Where is Komolafe?"
"Komolafe is fine, he should be with us in a moment" Jamiu had barely finished responding when Komolafe appeared in a distance.
"Talk of the Devil" Jamiu said
"You are the Son of your father!" Akanni hails.
"Of course na, I no be bastard!'
"You are welcome. I want us to conclude on the matter at hand. How much do we have and when are we going?"
"Yea, I've been making my own inquiries too, but, it seems that for a starter like me, it's safer to start trading in rice than in beans. One, it's readily available, I don't have to travel too far and two, it does not deteriorate as beans does ."
"Yes, you are very correct. I just gave an example, I didn't insist it has to be beans"
"Okay"
"So, how much do you have?'
"Fifty"
"That's cool, I too have Fifty...perhaps we should put ten - ten together for our friend here"
"Ten...it's okay...it's cool."
"Thank you my friends" Jamiu began
"When I thought about it, I thought it would be nice if I traded in a much more lighter commodity like fish"
"Fish! That's cool, never thought of it!" Komolafe observed.
"That makes it a perfect union...3 friends, one is into rice, another in vegetables and the third would be trading in fish! A perfect combo don't you think?" Akanni said jokingly. They all laughed.

______________________________________________

"Hey, hey, hey! If it's a joke, please, stop it! Haba! I say I no dey do again, na by force?!"
"Girl, I know you are angry, it's natural to be. but, what I'm saying here is that...."
"I should forgive him, welcome him back into my life as if nothing happened abi? Over my dead body!" Rachael screamed. Shade looked at her pitifully, only if she realizes what she was doing to herself.
"Okay o!No problem, perhaps, I should start talking to Rhoda..." Shade said eyeing Rachael.
"About what?" Shade didn't respond, she started walking away slowly and majestically. Rachael got worked up immediately.
"Shade, I said about what?"
"What now!"
"What would you be telling Rhoda?"
"How does that concern you?"
"It concerns me!"
"How?!" Shade had shouted at her. For the first time, Rachael was short of words. She was caught unawares by the question.
"I'm...I'm her teacher"
"So am I" Shade responded sharply. Rachael paused again. For the first time in her life, she has to struggle with answers! This was strange, very strange. She backed down, dropped into her mattress like a piece of log and broke into tears.
"I loved him so much...I gave him my all! I've never been this humiliated in my entire life!" She said in the midst of tears. Shade, too was struggling with her own tears too. She moved close to her and took her into her alms calming her down.
"It's okay...it's such an unfair world. It gave so much to the men and so little to the women who have to risk their lives to ensure continuity of life for mankind!" By this time, a tear had forced its way out of her eyes and had rolled freely down her cheek. Rachael cried out her heart, Shade followed suit. They sat there in each other's embrace and simply let go.

To be continued on Wednesday!

Call To Duty #15

"Adisa"
"Yea"
"Have you heard?"
"Heard what?"
"Kole and Rachael broke up!"
"What?"
"Kole had Rhoda and 2 other girls the same night. The girls were too excited that they couldn't keep their mouths shut, so...." Shade had continued before she was interrupted by Adisa's laughter.
"What's so funny?!" Shade was disgusted.
"I'm sorry Shade. But, you didn't you see that coming?"
"No!"
"Well, I did."
"How, I mean...what makes you so sure?"
"Haba! We all know that Kole is a player, Rachael too knows this. It's only a matter of time that he would do it again."
"No, I disagree with you, people change, Kole changed"
"I'm not disputing that and I'm not blaming Kole..."
"Oh, so it's Rachael's fault ba?"
"Let me finish...let me finish!"
"Okay"
"Change is a gradual process, it takes time... a whole lot of it! In fact, in some cases, it is a lifelong process. Rachael should know that. It's not easy letting go stuffs you enjoy to the fullest especially when they come for free!" Adisa explained
"So what you are saying is that Rachael should always forgive Kole and shouldn't make him pay, abi?"
"Yes!" Adisa affirms. Shade shook her head in disappointment.
"Listen, Rachael should get it right... Kole is bound to commit this same crime over and over again. and she must always forgive him if she truly loves this guy and want to spend the rest of her life with him."
"Eheen?"
"Yes, that's this fact!"
"If it were the other way round, would you be asking Kole to forgive Rachael?"
"No! No way!!" Adisa responded without hesitation.
"Ehen! Double standard...kai! Adisa, you disappoint me!" Shade said in anger. Adisa was shocked.
"Well, what do I expect, why do I think you'll have anything useful to say? Men are the same everywhere!" Shade exploded as she stood up and was making for the door. Adisa caught up with her, calmed her down and sat her down again.
"Shade, I'm sorry to have upset you. please allow me to explain myself." Adisa began. Shade was still angry and only managed to nod her head in agreement.
"Shade, take it or leave it, it's a man's world" Shade frowned in disgust but released a sigh while shaking her head in disappointment.
" To tell you the truth, Rachael didn't know what she was getting into when she accepted to date a man like Kole. To be honest with you, Kole was hoping to get over the past and lead a new lifestyle 100%. But, the problem is that there's no such thing as 100% in reality. You can be close but you can't have it all." Adisa explains. Although she agrees, she tries to conceal it.
"Kole is a strong man and I commend his level of commitment to this relationship with Rachael and I don't think Rachael should ruin it by trying to punish him for this singular mistake. If she does, Kole might get frustrated and might as well give the whole idea of trying to change his evil ways. The ultimate prize for him is Rachael. Now, if this prize continue become elusive, he might give up and slay queens like Rhoda and her friends will take over fully!" Adisa continued. Shade was moved, Adisa was making sense, she now paid more attention. Adisa was pleased to see that.
"If Rachael was hoping for a perfect relationship, she should have dated a pastor or a book worm or something...she shouldn't have opted for a playboy!" Shade gave a faint smile.
"I think you should talk sense to her. Kole should be encouraged by her pardon and not punished. If she insists on punishing him, it will only bring the worse out of him. Truth be told, Rhoda enjoyed her encounter with Kole and would want a repeat of the night's activity soonest. Rachael is giving for just that to happen. Tell her to expect such mistakes from time to time, if finds it unforgivable, she should get out of the relationship and start dating a pastor instead!" Adisa concluded and Shade busted into laughter. She has been trying to suppress it, but it came out forcefully this time. Adisa smiled.

_______________________________________

"Ah! Rhoda, what's up?!" Sarah slammed Rhoda a hi 5
"How you dey"
"I'm cool o!"
"Where is Janet?"
"She has gone home. Her mum needs her to run some errands for today"
"Okay. What's with Corper Rachael"
"What happened?"
"I don't know o, she has been acting really funny towards me these days"
"Are you surprised?"
"Of course, I am! What have I done?" Rhoda asked. Sarah laughed.
"So, you don't know?"
"Know what ?"
"That she's in relationship with Corper Kole"
"Ehn?!"
"Ehn!"
"No wonder, hey! What are we going to do?"
"Do?"
"Ehn"
" Nothing!"
"Ehn?"
"Ehen now. Do you have anything in mind?"
"Not really...come to think of it. we haven't done anything wrong, after all, they are not yet married, are they?"
"Abi o!"
"Omo, make i no lie you, that Corper is sweet!"
"Are you telling me? I wished we never had to leave that night, I swear!"
"I think we should see him again this weekend, what do you think?"
"Yea!"

To be Continued on Monday!

Call to Duty #14

"Babe,listen...I'm on my knees as you can see. It's the Devil,I fell, yes and I know that you have every right to do as you did. But I'll like you to remember how we began...you'll agree with me that it shouldn't end like this. Honey, please...."
"Hey Kole, please...did you remember how we started when you ripped her panties off or did you remember how we started when you were inside her?"
"Honey, it's the Devil,I'm sorry,please forgive me!"
"Ah, shut up! The Devil?"
"Yes, the Devil"
"The Devil my foot!Look, Kole, I think you have over stayed your welcome.Please leave!" Rachael declared. Kole stood up from his kneeling position trying to get hold of her. She slapped him
"Let me go,you fool! Get out!!!" Rachael screamed as she held the door opened for Kole. Kole looked at her as she stood by the door. He wasn't the type to cry, but he was obviously hurt too.He just walked out very slowly with his head down cast. He probably have lost out after all.

________________________________

Komolafe and Akanni were enjoying lunch at Akanni's house when Jamiu walked in looking very weak and hungry.
"Keji,please bring in more food o, Jamiu just showed up!"
"Yes o! Iyawo wa, I don land o,bring plenty plenty food for me!"
"Ah! Baba Oko mi, Akanni and Uncle Komolafe don finish the food o! But,I'm coming"
"Ehn, is that true Akanni?"
"Ehn...when we no quick see you nko?"
"Eheeen, Akanni, Komolafe, na so?"
"Na so!" Komolafe responded
"You better siddon chop, coz I go still chop o!"
"Ehn, chop, for wia?"
"I go surprise una today" Akanni was laughing all along, enjoying the comedy that his friends have put up.
"Guys, please, please, easy, Keji dey joki ni, food brekete for ground."
"Are you sure?" Jamiu asked
"No, he is not, he's guessing" Akanni started laughing again. Just then, Keji walked in with more food.
"Look Akanni, it's not funny fa!" Jamiu lamented
"Do I look like I'm laughing?" Komolafe responded. Jamiu suddenly went silent,Komolafe made  him a mockery face. He was caught unawares and knowing Komolafe so well, he could do this all day. Today is obviously not his day.
"Well done! 1 - 0!" Jamiu had said before he sat down.
"Ntoor! o dun un!" Komolafe said laughing hysterically as they all settled down to finish off the food.

15 minutes later....

"Ah...that was delicious. Of course, it is, this was why I asked Akanni to marry her, she's a blessed woman!" Jamiu commented
"Ehn, thank God you did. But my friend sef sabi say e no be easy thing to keep a woman like Keji given the economic situation he found himself!"
"Em, guys, please, that's enough. You are both right. I married the woman of my dreams despite the fact that I was not financially okay enough to do so. It's just that I couldn't bare loosing her to someone else over a temporary issue like money" Akanni said
"Ehen!" Jamiu interrupted
"Yes, but Komolafe was right as well, it was a very big and dangerous risk to marry a woman you cannot manage. Keji had confided in me only last night that she almost lost it considering the immense pressure she was exposed to from suitors and friends who were encouraging her to go wild" Akanni continued.
"This is why we are here. We are here to discuss our financial future. How can we ensure we no longer go bankrupt again?"
"Ah - ah! Akanni, we already have solution now" Jamiu answered
"Yes, Akanni, I mean look at you, you are a changed man, your wife respects you much more now. Personally, I think that has been the missing link all these time. we need to find a business that'll fetch us daily income like your vegetable farm." Komolafe added.
"Now, the question is which business shall we choose?" Jamiu queried.
"Food business!" Akanni answered bluntly.
"Ehn?!" Jamiu asked not sure if he had him well.
"Yes now, vegetable is just the beginning of good things to come for me and that does not stop you, Komolafe from engaging in trading in yams and you Jamiu, in beans!" Akanni explained.
"Hm!Akanni - kanni! The business consultant of our times!" Komolafe hails his friend who could not help but smile.
"Ehn...that wouldn't be hard for you and Komolafe, you already have the much needed capital, what of me, where am I getting the money from?"
"From us of course, who else?!" Komolafe bellowed.
"Hm! I don't understand..."
"What he's saying is that we are friends who knows one another too well not to help each other out. we shall raise the capital for you!"Akanni explains. Jamiu went down on his knees tearfully.
"Ha! My friends, I thank you so much for this very kind gesture of yours. May God continue to bless you and your family" He prayed.
"Ameen" They chorused while helping him to his feet.
"Now, get up and stop embarrassing us!" Komolafe scolded. They shook hands and hugged themselves.

To be continued on Saturday!

Call to Duty #13

"Now that we are all here,  let me begin by saying 'good morning'" The King began
"Kabiyesi o!" The audience chorused.
"Thank you, it shall be well with you all!"
"Ashe o!"
"We all know what has brought us here today. The Corper has spoken and have indeed raised the spirit of most of us that are here. Corper,you have done all the talking and we have done all the hearing...shall we get straight to business?" The king opened the floor for deliberation.
"Thank you so much sir. Greetings to you all my elders,it's a great privileged to be here whining and dinning with the brightest minds in the land" The Corper began. Some proudly acknowledge his comment by nodding very lightly. The Balogun, sat up and spread out his agbada on his seat proudly.
"Sir, the bulk of the work shall be done by me,the Youth leader and the honorable Balogun"
"Ahem!" Balogun cleared his throat in the act of show off . Otun and Iyalode looked him up and down disgustingly.
"The Youth leader shall represent your highness' approval and serve as a moral booster for the youths to actively take part in the work load to be handled.The Balogun shall represent your fatherly figure as the Supreme leader of the town and remind them that your commands must be obeyed at all times."
"Hm! You have spoken well...ride on!" The King urged the Corper on.
"My belief is that the state government feels that you depend solely on her for all your needs. You therefore, have no say in any affair...you simply take orders that you must carry out which is obviously not fair"
"Hmmmm..." Everyone sighed. Some leaning back, others adjusting themselves in their seats but the King actually sat up frowning his face and shaking his head in the process. A look at his face would suggest that he probably remembered a similar experience where he was belittled.
"This was why I spoke so bravely the other day when I was caught in the act. Your highness,I spoke out of disgust not in you the King who represent our cultural heritage but in disgust with the lackadaisical attitude of the government in handling your matters.Now, that I'm given the opportunity to right the wrongs,I want to say a Big Thank you to you sir and your royal council." Everyone clapped including the King.
"Having said that,I'll like to tell you all that the first thing to be done here is a Census Exercise."
"Census?" Everyone except the King Chorused.He simply sat back thoughtfully while his subjects struggle to understand the Corper.
"Yes, Census"
"But, what has that got to do with anything,Corper, are you sure you are not trying to waste our time here? Census...is that not the Federal Government's job?" Iyalode queried looking worried. Adisa laughed.
"No ma. It's an activity that every well meaning leader must do....be it Federal, State even Local governments."
"Ehn?"
"Yes ma"
"Tooor!"
"Unless you have a good knowledge of the numbers and characteristics of the people you lead, doing a good job as a leader is extremely difficult. This is in fact, the reason that so many governments fail woefully. Take for instance, Nigeria as a country haven't done the head count in a very long while. Meaning that the Federal Government cannot tell how many youths there are,how many are unemployed how many old people, how many children, how many males,how many females...the list goes on!" The Corper continued.
"We need all these facts if we must excel. It's like a father with 4 wives who does not know how many children he has,how do you expect him to cater for them well?" Iyalode nodded in agreement.
"To do this and manage it effectively, we need to set up an office...a secretariat where we can keep such vital information and able to access it anytime."
"More like the Ministry of Information?" The King interrupted.
"Yes sir"
"Where would it be cited"
"I'll leave that decision to your highness"
"No...I'll like to hear your view"
"Well sir..." The Corper started looking at the faces of all sitting, seeking their silent approval to go on.
"May I suggest a place close to the Palace or the center of the Town?"
"Hmmm...because of the importance of such an office, I think I'll go with your first suggestion.It shall be situated close to the Palace"
"Kaabiyesi o!" Everyone chorused.
"So, Corper,what the next step?"
"Sir, the next step is find a high and fast profit pulling business to run. This cannot be per-determined sir.we'll need to know how much we have before we can do that" The King laughed.
"I understand how you feel. It has to work out perfectly. So you are being very careful and somewhat secretive about your plans.That's good and very wise" The king's consent pleases the Corper who could not keep his excitement as he shook his fist victoriously before he could stop himself. The King smiled.
"Please, continue"
"Yes sir.It is from what we generate from the voluntary donations that we shall establish the transport business and use the work force of the youths to gradually upgrade the roads to standard. In return, the youths shall be well fed and paid a token for their job plus, the king shall recognize them through the award of certificates of patriotism. This is how we cut down cost and make the best of what we have" The King started clapping really hard that it surprised everyone including the Corper. The whole royal council joined the King as quickly as they could.
"Brilliant! Very Brilliant!!!" The King Commented. The Prof stood up walked towards the Corper first shook hands with him and later gave him a very big hug. The Corper was very surprised and speechless.

To be continued on Wednesday

 

Call To Duty #12

Early in the morning,as early as 7 o'clock, Adisa was already at the King's Palace. He has been summoned the previous night and has been told to report at the Palace as early as he can. There was going to be a very crucial meeting pertaining to the task he is set to complete.

He has been there for an hour before the first chief who happens to be Balogun came in.

"Corper, when did you get here?"

"About an hour ago sir" Adisa responded with utmost respect

"What a pity! I wish our people would respect time as you've demonstrated.If only we can all can,we would be better for it. I complained of the message sent to you not being specific about time,but, it was not taken seriously,now look at it now,you are here before any of us the hosts. Is that not an insult and embarrassment?" Balogun inquired. Adisa smiled and shook his head

"Not at all sir"

"Ehn I understand,what would you say,I mean,what would anyone expect a well cultured and trained youth like you to say about the misconduct of older ones?Nothing! But, I tell you, it's not right and we need to start considering respecting time"

"Yes sir"

"I hope you'll be able to teach everyone including the King the true essence of time management from this project? So many royal businesses have remained unfinished due to his recklessness with time!" The Balogun had just finished whispering this to the Corper when the King emerged and the 2 men had to prostrate to welcome him to the Palace's court room.

"Kabiyesi o!"

"Thank you Balogun...Corper, so early?"

"Yes sir, the messenger said I had to come as early as I can"

" Yes but not this early,anyway,you are here and it's good you are. Where are the other members of the royal council Balogun?"

"Kabiyesi o!They are all on their way.I have also called the Prof and other guests that have been invited and they have all confirmed that they'll be here. The Youth leader is in best position to answer to the responses of our children in the diaspora as per the message you sent to them. But from what he's saying,Kabiyesi, responses are good...very good Kabiyesi!"

"It has to be,you know, Ijinle town is a town that's known for her disciplinary characters...we don't breed mediocrity and our children are not bastards, they must surely listen and cooperate with us at home!"

"Yes ,Kabiyesi,you are right,very correct" They both laughed jokingly to the Kabiyesi's submissions.

"We should wait for them a little while more,while we wait,corper what would you like to be offered?"

"Ah! Kabiyesi,there wouldn't be need for that sir,I've eaten"

"I know but you'll still have to take something"

"But..."

"I insist!" The King declared

"Okay sir"

"Okay,so what would you have,coffee, tea?"

"I'll take tea sire, thank you sir"

"You don't mention it" The King waved a servant

"Get the Corper tea while you serve the Balogun as usual"

"Ho! Kabiyesi, you'll not kill me with this your hospitality o!"

________________________________________________________

 "Kole, what is this that I'm hearing?"

"What?"

"Is it true that you and Rhoda were together last night?"

"Together...I don't understand!"

"You won't understand! You think I will not know,you think those girls can actually keep secrets? Even a grown up can't! Now listen..."

"Hey,hey hey!!! What is it now,was she not the one that came along with her friends to the Corpers' lodge? I was just there minding my own business when the 3 of them came knocking..."

"Three,three,you said three,hey,Kole,I pity you o!"

"Pity yourself! Now listen, if you must know,those girls are sweet and know how to please a man than you can ever dream of doing in the next ten years!" At this point, Rachael have started crying.

"Ha! Kole, so it's true?" she broke down in uncontrollable tears. Kole's heart melted

"Listen babe..."

"Don't touch me! and don't baby me,Kole, you are disgrace to manhood. I thought you were matured enough...I thought you were 'MAN' enough...never knew you are still that little toddler that have no control over his emotions...where am I going to start from now?" Rachael asked in tears before running away.

"Rachael,Rachael! It's not what you think!" Kole kicked, he knew he had blown it.Rachael was all he could ever ask for in a woman.She has been supportive both morally and financially ever since they met at their place of primary assignment.This is not to mention the fact that Rachael was an embodiment of beauty that everyone sorted after. Is it her curves,her height or the beautiful skin and face that tend to glow even in the dark that one can possibly resist? Kole could attest to that and the fact that she has been very conservative and reserved.

All top  officials of the NYSC have tried wooing  her to no avail she wouldn't fall for their temptation. The Commandant threatened and actually carried out a threat of extra drilling in his plot to break her and make her play ball but she would refuse. These and many more reasons are why most Corps members including Adisa thinks Kole was the luckiest man to have had her as a date. But now, all that is history...or is it?

'Am I gonna just watch her slip away without a fight? No, Rachael is kind hearted and very forgiving. all I have to do is to renounce those girls and find a way to make up with her. But...God,last night was memorable...it was the sweetest experience I ever had! Looks like I have to make a choice now and Rhoda is not an option!' Kole thinks to himself as he stands up to go after Rachael.

____________________________________________________________

"Ah! My very good friend, long time no see. How far now,we no dey see your break light again,why now?" Komolafe querried his friend, Akanni.

"Eh, don't mind me,I've been busy these days that's why"

"Busy, busy doing what?" Akanni laughed.

"I've been busy minding my business now"

"What business is that,the only business I know you with is Vulcanizing which I no longer see you seat at again."

"Haba! I still do my vulcanizing business o,it's just that we've missing ourselves these days...besides,you too,have been unavailable for some time now"

"Yes o! I traveled...I have gone with a friend on a business trip. There's this building site that requires roofing and my friend could think of no other person than me to do the job for him.He works as a development agent and have gained a lot of ground in his business."

"Ore mi! That means that you are in a lot of money!"

"Yes o! I've only been seeing Jamiu and have asked him to say me well to you."

"Yes, he delivered your message but as I was saying,my new business requires that I wake up early enough to follow the first available vehicle to town."

"Ehn? please,tell me about this new business of yours, Jamiu briefed me about it but, as you know I love to hear it from the horse's mouth" Akanni laughed,it's a long story o!"

"I'm all ears and not in hurry,yan me tory abegi!" Akanni laughed.

....to be continued on Saturday