₦airaland Forum

Only a prayer I say on this special day.
May you witness more of his wonders, blessings, peace and joy of the Almighty God I wish you as you celebrate a new year.
Happy Birthday and may your pen never run dry.

pensilpyper:
this story no suppose end like this

Sorry if it looks like a false ending.

elog:
Nice story.. This would hardly happen in real life.. A uniben model not sleep with sponsor?

I want to believe in such possibility.

elog:
Nice story.. This would hardly happen in real life.. A uniben model not sleep with sponsor?

I want to believe in such possibility.

smilinjessy:
i love dis story but i'm new here and i don't know how to get other stories

Click on the name and it will show you my profile. thanks.

The contest was approaching the climax. It had been a long and exerting journey for the contestants most especially for contestant 15. It was the number tag given the beautiful, tall and ebony Ewoma. She had entered the contest as an anonymous freshman and suddenly she had become as popular as Tu face, the musician. She felt vulnerable each time she had faced the audience but she was already cozying up to the privilege that comes with being popular. She was expectant of winning the contest and this made her nervous as the seconds went by. In the changing room, huddled with the four remaining opponents, she was completely focused on gleaning a little bit of inspiration from her whispering unconscious. She felt a figure walk past her and she raised her head just in time to see the smiling face of Edward. It was the same smile that had endeared him to her since meeting him on the eviction night. That was the night when the contestants were pruned from hundred to twenty. Edward was Madam Tiko’s personal assistant. Madam Tiko owned the Original African lady brand that was organizing the Miss Biebi (black) beauty pageant.

Ewoma has always been referred to as a model even before she became a participant in the beauty pageant. Her lithe frame coupled with her swaying gait when she walks resembled that of models who strut the runaway at international fashion shows. She had just clocked nineteen at the time of her resumption at the University of Benin. She was not on campus for long when she started attracting the curious and admiring gaze of both male and female students alike. She was not fazed by the interest she got as she was already used to being the Centre of attention in every space she had covered.
Her personality was instrumental in her relationships with friends who came in their different shades and size as she grew into the academic culture of her new environment. Rita stood out among the friends she warmed up to. She was of an average height, stout and had a pretty face. Ewoma liked her because she exuded confidence and was quite intelligent. They started out as roommates before they became friends. The only thing that separated them was their course of study. Ewoma had been admitted to study Microbiology while Rita was a student of Accounting. They got on well despite their different interests.

The loud piercing sound of the electronic speaker broke into her thoughts. It had been close to an hour of waiting for the auspicious moment. Edward had just left the dressing room ostensibly on his last inspection walk. She had averted her eyes even though she was sure that he wore that strange smile of his. She was wary of his smile when they first met as she could not separate it from the leering gaze she got from men. Gradually she had come to accept him as a friend. She thought about the crowd outside and suddenly she felt inadequate. She wished she would not be the winner.

‘‘All right, ladies and gentlemen,’’ the booming voice of the compere ‘’we now welcome the final contestants to the podium.’’

Ewoma took the third place among the remaining five as they got set to leave. They were welcomed into the expansive Queen Aminat hall by the rousing applause of the people who had gathered to witness the historic event.

It was the same rousing applause that followed her answers during the quiz section. She would always remember that moment as one that set her on a flight to public attention. The other contestants were equally articulate and reassuring as they answered questions. The compere was boisterous when he praised the contestants.

‘’This is a nail-biting contest. We might just be witnessing the toughest contest yet since the grand lady, Madam Tiko created this competition.’’

An hour after, they were standing in front of the judges hoping for that moment of providence that would win the race for them. The compere appealed for calm as he prepared to announce the new queen. He began the announcement from the fourth runner-up. When he got to the position of the first runner-up, he seemed to play into the anxiety of the crowd as he requested for a short document to be read about the Original African Lady organization. This did not go down well with the crowd who protested in return. After much protestations, he shelved the idea and appealed for calm in preparation for the penultimate announcement. Ewoma and the other contestant, Cynthia listened with anxiety in their hearts. Ewoma sank to her knees amidst shouts of joy from the crowd once Cynthia was announced as the first runner-up. She was brought to her feet some seconds after by the firm hands of the compere and her predecessor, Betty. She was crowned the winner. The crown came with a one million naira cash prize and a car. She was overwhelmed with thoughts of how much she had received by virtue of her beauty and intelligence.

*********************
She was the main attraction at the reception held after the contest. Madam Tiko showed her high taste as she chose the iconic Seagull hotel to host the event. Despite having Rita for company, Ewoma struggled to stay relaxed as she moved among the throng of men and women who graced the occasion. She was flustered after an hour of exchanging banters with the crowd of well-wishers and this made her seek exit from the gathering. Edwards met her just as she was about going into the restroom.

‘‘Congratulations, I knew you would be the winner.’’

‘’Thank you very much.’’
She smiled and shook her head in acknowledgement of his support.

‘’Just enjoy yourself and I wish you luck,’’ He said.

He left afterwards and Ewoma entered the restroom. She had always thought of the task ahead and she already knew it was going to be difficult. She had so many ideas which have assumed a tangle in her mind. She knew already that a year would not be enough to bring her ideas into fruition. She spent quite a long time in the restroom and met Rita waiting by the door on her way out.

‘’What have you been doing?’’ She queried.

‘’Why that expression on your face?’’ Ewoma asked smiling.

‘’Madam Tiko wants to see you’’ She said.

‘‘Okay, let’s go.’’

They hurried to the hall where the party was gradually winding down. The number of guests had thinned out as the hours counted. Rita led her to a corner of the hall where Madam Tiko sat on a chair facing two men. One of the men was dark and had a huge stature. He wore an agbada and laughed often. The other who was much younger wore a shirt and a pair of denim. Madam Tiko stood up immediately she saw Ewoma.

‘’Yes, Chief we now have a new queen.’’

Ewoma stared in revulsion as the Chief licked his lips. She hated the lust that was visible in the eyes of the Chief but nevertheless she smiled and curtsied.

‘’Ewoma, Chief Obaje here is a major donor to my organization and he has just agreed to sponsor the activities you will be engaged in.’’

Sponsor did not appear meaningful at that point as Ewoma smiled broadly in anticipation of his generous assistance. She was ready to forget the lust in his eyes just for the sake of his donation. Madam Tiko was not done as a little non-verbal exchange happened between her and the Chief.

‘’ Ewoma, please come with me.’’

They walked out of the mini-bar and headed for the section where rooms were located. Madam Tiko led her past three rooms and then opened the fourth one. The room was tastefully furnished. They sat on the edge of the smoothly laid bed.

‘’I want you to accompany the Chief to his hotel,’’ Madam Tiko said.

‘’Okay ma?’’

‘’I hope you understand the reason?’’

‘’No ma’’

‘’Okay…I like you and I hope you to realize the opportunity you have right now,’’ Madam Tiko smiled.

‘’Yes ma.’’

‘’That is good. I will like to tell you something that is very important.’’

Madam Tiko proved to be an avid marketer in that moment as she detailed the financial realities of her organization. She was just a hustler. Her foundation was almost crumbling and the beauty contest was one of the few major life-lines she had left. She needed Ewoma’s help to pull this through. The blank expression on Ewoma’s face showed her discomfort even after she had listened to the speech.

‘’I want you to sleep with Chief.’’

‘’Ma…that is not right,’’ She protested.

‘’ What do you mean.’’

‘’I am a virgin.’’

Madam Tiko chuckled.

‘’You will definitely lose it someday.’’

‘’Ma, I insist it is not right.’’

Madam Tiko hated the aversion on Ewoma’s face.

‘’You have no choice. Chief Obaje will not sponsor us if you don’t honour his request’’

There and then, she realized the importance and the meaning of the word ‘sponsor’.

‘’Ma, I don’t care.’’

‘’You must be joking,’’ Madam Tiko said sternly.

Madam Tiko stood up immediately and left the room. A short while later, Rita rushed into the room. Ewoma was still smarting from the discussion with Madam Tiko.

‘’What happened between you and Madam Tiko?’’ Rita asked as she sat beside her.

Rita was apprehensive. She still had shock on her face as she looked at Ewoma.

‘’A little misunderstanding’’ Ewoma replied.

‘’What do you mean, she was hysteric when I met her on the way.’’

‘’She wants me to have sex with that Chief.’’

Rita did not look surprised. Instead, she held Ewoma’s gaze for a while and then averted her eyes. They were quiet until the door of the room opened. Madam Tiko walked into the room followed closely by Edward. Ewoma and Rita stood up immediately.

‘’You are lucky, Chief understands you need a rest hence the meeting has been rescheduled,’’ suddenly she glared at Ewoma ‘’do well to rethink your stance.’’

She left with Edward leading the way. Silence took over the room and Ewoma left for the bathroom. She was flummoxed. She had a thought that she was entering for a life-changing assignment. Unfortunately, she was about to be confronted by a negative one. She had made her decision not to become a part of the ladies conquered by Chief Obaje but how far could she go especially with the vehement opposition of the owner of the brand she represents. She stripped and entered into the bathtub. The shower brought some measure of comfort to her troubled mind. Rita was already sleeping when she entered the room. She hated the silence in the room and slowly rested with the hope of jetting off to a world of pleasant dreams.
Ewoma woke up early the next morning. She stretched lazily with dazed eyes but was able to see Rita staring at her. She rubbed her eyes.

‘’How are you?’’ Rita asked.

‘’I am fine. You are up already?’’ Ewoma asked as she heaved herself.

‘’Yes, just watching over the queen,’’ Rita smiled.

‘’You aren’t serious,’’ Ewoma blushed.

She stood up from the bed and sauntered to the bathroom. Looking out of the window, she discovered it was still dark. She washed her face and walked back into the room.

‘’It is still early,’’ Ewoma said.

‘’Are you surprised? Come, let’s discuss’’ Rita said.

She went and sat astride Rita.

‘’So what plans do you have?’’ Rita asked.

‘’I have so many.’’

She went on to list her thoughts and plans for the year. She wanted to help the girl child and make sure they were adequately equipped to be independent. Also, she would use her office as a leverage to campaign for the rights of the less privilege and physically challenged members of the society. All through, she had a coy smile on her face while Rita looked on with seeming disinterestedness.

‘’What about you?’’ Rita asked.

‘’I already got my dues,’’ Ewoma replied.

‘’What about me?’’

Ewoma looked on bemused. Rita was crossed and the moments that followed was quite nerve racking. Ewoma was not used to being put on the spot but she knew her friend wanted a reply. Suddenly, they heard a knock on the door.

‘’Who is it?’’ Ewoma asked.

‘’Edward’’

‘’Okay, a moment’’

She was not fully dressed and she hurried to fetch a short from her bag which she wore. Edward was leaning on the wall. Ewoma expected the smile but there was none. She greeted him and he replied coldly. His eyes were red and he looked so much like one who had been deprived of his night rest. Edward broke the silence. He had come to plead for her cooperation. He made her understand the harm she would cause Madam Tiko’s brand if they were to lose a money bag like Obaje. After listening to his speech, Ewoma was flagger basted. Edward was serious and this infuriated her. She could barely imagine what he was thinking as to encourage her to become an escort of Obaje. She gave him a terse reply.

‘’I am not a prostitute.’’

The effect of the statement was like a bombshell judging by the silence that followed the statement. Edward was shocked and he shook his head in confusion. He made an attempt to speak but it seemed words betrayed him. He retreated slowly and then turned around. Ewoma hated his guts but she felt calm amidst the seeming storm. She could easily have heed her parents’ plea to give attention to her studies. She rested on the wall for support and also as a last resort to ward off her fears and worries. She returned to the room once she felt better. Rita was in the bathroom and this gave her some respite. The proverb ‘’uneasy lies the head that wears the crown’’ aptly described her present state.

Rita came shortly after she sat on the bed. She looked radiant with the towel tied just above her bosom.

‘’You should go and have your bath,’’ Rita said.

‘’All right’’

Ewoma stood up from the bed and entered the bathroom. The cold feel of the water as it poured on her brought momentary relief to her troubled mind. She felt calm amidst the brewing storm. She felt no regret that she had got involved with a brand that saw nothing wrong in giving young girls away to lascivious men like Obaje. On entering the room, she found Rita applying some cosmetics to her face at the dresser. Silence had suddenly become a norm among them and she was gradually growing accustomed to it. She went to the wardrobe, brought out her cream and started applying it on her body. She kept her eyes on Rita who continued with her task oblivious of her presence. She was not used to such attitude from her closest friend.

‘’Rita,’’ she called.

‘’What…’’

‘’I wanted to ask if you are done.’’

‘’I will leave once you are ready,’’ Rita bent her neck a little to reply.

‘’All right.’’

They heard a knock on the door just at that moment. They exchanged looks and then, the sound came again.

‘’Hello, who is there?’’ Rita asked.

‘’It’s Betty.’’

Rita was about standing and then she turned around to look at Ewoma. Ewoma nodded her head, a subtle consent and immediately Rita went and opened the door. Eve walked into the room while Rita closed the door behind her. She was dressed in a gown made with Ankara material.

‘’So how are you queen?’’ Betty asked smiling.

‘’I am fine.’’

Ewoma was done with applying cream and she was sitting some distance away from the wardrobe. Betty came to sit beside her.

‘’I believe you will enjoy your reign.’’

‘’I hope so.’’

The smile receded from her face. Betty had come for business. She talked about the merit of holding the crown for a year and touted the advantages that came with it which could continue after the crown has been passed to another. Ewoma listened with rapt attention. Betty made an effort to put her at ease as she also talked about the benevolent activities of Madam Tiko and talked about the large number of ladies who had gained from her spirited efforts. The more she appraised the efforts of Madam Tiko, the more the feeling of déjà vu took over the thoughts of Ewoma. She was all too familiar with the tricks but she willingly gave Betty all the attention she needed. She looked all too innocent to encourage such immoral act. Several minutes had gone when she turned to the present task.
‘’I want you to co-operate with Madam Tiko.’’

‘’I have done just that but she is asking me to do something that I can’t engage in.’’

Betty smiled seeing the strain on Ewoma’s face as she got to the end of her reply. Ewoma’s reply also made her nervous. She knew she would need a lot of patience to convince her. She decided to address her vain thoughts. Everyone had that and she knew few could reject an opportunity to see their wishes fulfilled. Thus, she described her personal experience during her reign. She had travelled to countries in about three continents and have had the benefit of relating and working with several A-list fashion models. She sighed afterwards with a conviction that she had won Ewoma over.
Ewoma seemed to have absorbed her message. Instead, she was angry at the persistent salesmanship of Betty. Suddenly, she hated the moment she agreed to enter into the contest. Rita had listened to the conversation and their eyes met at that moment. Rita’s eyes held no objection. Ewoma could easily deduce that from the soft and teary look of her eyes.

‘’I will think about what you have said,’’ She said after a while.

Eve grinned and then hugged her. Afterwards, she walked out of the room.

‘’So what do you intend?’’

‘’I am leaving.’’

‘’Are you crazy?’’ Rita leapt to her feet. ’’How can you let go of such an opportunity like this, you must understand that a decision on this matter is beyond you. Madam Tiko does not deserve such a selfish decision.’’

Ewoma saw treachery in the eyes of Rita. Instead of sympathizing with Rita’s indifference, she felt anger and hate towards her. While she could easily spite her by not backing down from her decision, she saw beyond Rita in her decision not to be Miss Biebi. She was only interested in keeping her dignity as well as not to cheapen herself before any man. She averted her eyes and wore a gown. She started folding the clothes on the bed. Her mind was made up but she was still undecided on how to break the news to Madam Tiko and her entourage. Rita left the room after a while. Ewoma felt like her world was falling apart. Just yesterday, she had fought off the challenge of Cynthia to win the crown and now she was about letting go of the crown. She would have been consoled if tears could stream down her face but she was not used to a teary reprieve. She finished arranging her clothes and zipped the duffel bag.
Suddenly, the door opened. Madam Tiko was in the lead as the others followed closely.
‘’Ewoma, you have shown that you are so insensitive. How dare you reject our pleas,’’ Madam Tiko barked.

Ewoma suddenly felt anger surge in her mind. She was ready to confront this bunch of immoral agents.

‘’Madam, I do appreciate you for giving…’’

‘’Don’t you dare patronize me. I have given you several opportunities to come down from that unfounded high place you have placed yourself but you have proven to be a hard nut. You definitely cannot represent this brand if you are not willing to pass this small assignment.’’

‘’Ma, I am leaving your privileged position for good. I think it will be best if you replaced me,’’ Ewoma replied calmly.

She handed a pile of cloth on which she had placed the crown to Madam Tiko who refused to take it. She dropped the pile on the bed and then picked her bag and walked past Madam Tiko, Rita, Betty and Edward. His eyes met with hers and she almost hesitated. His eyes bore a trace of wonder. She did not need his seeming surprise to celebrate her resolve. She had only wanted to be a beauty queen and not a courtesan.

THE END

Copyright @ Okoribe Aruakpo.

This story is fictional and any resemblance with any real event is entirely coincidental. This work should not be copied or used without permission from the author.

Why must you write that story and what is the implication if you don't write it?
To Start writing a story is often difficult but you have to nevertheless. If you don't mind, you could drop an outline or a concise synopsis.

kayo80:
Lovely writeup.

Thanks.

He collaborates and mentors young writers. He has been a target of criticism for this action. This is the consequence of people's desire for a celebrity in whatever field.

Now this is a brilliant and concise tale. Great job though some little errors and also I think pandemonium broke lose is not correct.

Congrats Mr. Divepen, I hope you do great as a mod for this section. My suggestion is time to encourage writers here with good literary contests. As for the plagiarism aspect, I have seen my work lifted though my name is on it. I'd advise that writers should beware of the type of work to be posted here. Put serious works away.

I understand your poem but you should have made adequate use of lines. Mami market cannot be ignored as it is one place a corp member should experience before leaving camp.

Sarki was feeling cool and serene once again. The past month had been one of the busiest in his civil service career. Omoefe had almost sprang a deadly surprise on him. He relished the thought of his recent triumph as he enjoyed the cool air emanating from the air conditioner in his office. Suddenly, he heard a knock on the door and he issued out an order for the person to open. Usman walked in and went to stand in front of him.

‘’ Good morning sir’’

‘’ Good morning, you can have your seat’’

Usman sat down. Sarki turned to look at him fully.

‘’ You and your boys have done well’’

‘’ Thank you sir’’

‘’ So what do you suggest we do with the boy’s properties’’

‘’ The bag containing his close has been taken care of but we kept the prototype and the file. They are quite valuable materials’’

‘’ I understand. I want you to put them away for now. The case is still a hot topic and Omoefe could easily relate with the materials. The most important thing is that this project will not come to fruition’’

‘’ Okay sir’’

‘’ Usman, I appreciate your loyalty and this will be duly rewarded’’

‘’ I do appreciate your kindness sir’’

‘’ Let’s meet at our usual spot later this evening. I got a beautiful package for you’’

Usman smiled in appreciation and stood up from the chair. Sarki shook his hand and Usman left the office. Sarki could imagine his outsize figure. He felt like a feudal lord whose authority is non-contestable. The ministry was indeed his fiefdom and he was not done yet with bringing down his enemies. Omoefe was just the latest and he couldn’t but salivate at the prospect of victory over his next aggressor.

****************
Three months ago and that was all it took for Omoefe to find himself on the other extreme of his community’s expectation. He had thought of discussing the issue with Benjamin’s father alone but he felt it was beyond them hence he had invited the chairman of administrative duties in the community. His assistant was also invited and they sat together in the sitting-room of Benjamin’s father. He was surprised by the visit and he showed signs and curiosity.

‘’ Good day elders’’ Omoefe greeted.

They chorused a reply.

‘’ Something unfortunate has happened’’ an anxious start.

The elders’ became piqued at this point. Bad news was not pleasant no matter how much one tries to douse his impact.

‘’ A week ago, Benjamin decided to return home as he had been living with me for a month. He had the consent of his father when he visited and it was a plan that has to do with providing a reliable source of electricity. Difficulties as a result of opposition from some top officials in the civil service made the project to remain in the planning stage’’

He paused and the silence that greeted him made him realize he had the rapt attention of all who were seated.

‘’ Benjamin told me he was tired of staying without any tangible job hence he told me that he wanted to return home. I drove him to the park and gave him the fare for his return home. After that, I didn’t hear from him until I heard about his death…’’

A gasp of horror and mournful sounds from the men greeted his revelation. Benjamin’s father stood up and began to pace to and fro. Omoefe decided to keep quiet as he took in the effect of his revelation on the elders.

‘’ Sir, I decided to report as soon as it was convenient. The case is under investigation as he died from a bullet wound’’ he concluded.

This last statement brought him back to limelight as the elders turned to look at him. He could feel the tension in the room.

‘’ Oza, this is quite unfortunate. This kind of death is alien to us’’ the chairman said visibly shaken.

‘’ I never had premonition but I always felt Benjamin had too many big dreams and finally what I feared most has happened. It will be futile to blame anyone or anybody but this is so unbearable’’ Benjamin’s father lamented.

Omoefe had his head on his hand as he listened to Benjamin’s father. He felt relieved by the man’s submission. Little was said afterwards as the men extended hands of solidarity to their kin’s-man. Life was indeed short and brutal. Omoefe drove to see his mother after the meeting. He had not revealed the reason for his visit until his revelation to Benjamin’s father. Once he got home, he had a quick shower and relaxed under the glow of the kerosene lantern. He refused to eat dinner and this led to questions from his mother. He told her after much pestering. She cried out in anguish once she heard the news and Omoefe had a hard time pacifying her. He was tired already and he felt uncomfortable as he thought of how the community would receive the information once the matter gets out to them. He left the next morning after a brief stopover at Benjamin’s home.

***********************
Bernard, the detective had a lot of problems with the recent death of Benjamin. An autopsy had been conducted and it was ascertained that the deceased had died of gunshot wound. The information supplied by his benefactor had revealed a curious twist to the case and this had been the clue he had worked on in the days after their meeting. Unfortunately, subsequent interactions with his benefactor had revealed little thus his struggles to establish a suitable fitting point to rein in the possible suspects. The body of Benjamin was in the mortuary of the central hospital and the immediate plan was to release it as soon as it was possible. This was one among other cases of homicide he had to investigate and the more case files were opened, the more he struggled to come to terms with his fleeting success in bringing criminals to justice. Unfortunately, he had received little support from his boss who felt the case was almost too knotty for it to be untied.
He was still struggling to think when he heard a knock on his door. He issued an order and the door was opened. He recognized one of the two men as the benefactor of the man who was recently killed but not the older man.

‘’ Good day sir’’ he greeted.

Omoefe shook his hand in reply.

‘’ Sir, this is the detective investigating the case’’ Omoefe said.

The older man was Benjamin’s father.

‘’ Officer, well done’’

‘’ Thank you sir, you may have your seat’’

They sat down almost at the same time.

‘’ Sir, you are welcome. It is quite unfortunate that your son is dead’’

‘’ Thank you officer. I heard you are investigating the case. I appreciate your effort so far’’

‘’ Thank you sir. We have been able to establish the cause of his death which was as a result of a bullet wound. We are on the lookout for possible suspects and I can assure you that we won’t give up our search’’

‘’ I thank you very much for your concern but what I really want at this point is the body of my son. His body needs to be buried’’

Bernard kept his gaze on the bland look of Benjamin’s father and after a while dropped his face down.

‘’ Please excuse me. I need to seek permission from my superior’’

He stood up and left the Omoefe and Benjamin’s father. Silence filled the room as both men kept their eyes firmly fixed on the wall clock. Bernard came back some minutes after.

‘’ Thank you sir for exercising some patience. The body will be released as soon as you are ready to have it’’

‘’ Okay, thank you sir’’ Omoefe spoke this time.

‘’ Thank you, we will come back once we are ready’’

Benjamin’s father stood up followed by Omoefe and they left the office. Omoefe could not distinguish if he was suffering from grief or stress in the recent days. Benjamin’s father had arrived Abuja a week after the meeting in his sitting-room. Omoefe drove home immediately. He had barely sat through a full working day since the death of Benjamin. Fortunately, work was less demanding. They had a quick and short meeting once they got to the house and the man decided that the body would be transported in three days. Omoefe offered to foot the transportation bill which Benjamin’s father was grateful for. He empathized with the old man especially as he was consumed with grief. He felt sorry for Benjamin also but he also felt he had not lived long enough to learn the virtue of patience and trust.

The body was transported after three days to the village. Omoefe had to take permission from the office to follow Benjamin’s father home with the body. The grave side was besieged by men and women alike and the women cried and yelled at the unfortunate demise of a young promising man. He was laid to rest immediately amidst head shaking and voices of protestation at how unfair life was. The event did not last long and after wards the elders and Omoefe gathered for some few minutes at Benjamin father’s sitting-room.

Omoefe left the village before dawn the next morning. He was already worn out with the whole event coupled with the fact that he had received little or no help from people around. He knew for a start that his visit to the village may just hold on for as long as his conscience would allow. While he knew people could be suspicious, he knew he had bigger battles to fight hence he was reluctant to let perceived hatred to deprive him of the much needed energy.

The End

comelyJummy:
Nice story!! great work!

Thanks.

The next morning, Benjamin dressed up in time as he knew Omoefe would be leaving for work early. He was bent on leaving but he was not going to the village. He had instead set another plan in motion which he was bent on executing. Omoefe was surprised to see Benjamin with his luggage in the sitting-room when he entered. Omoefe wore a blue shirt on a black trouser.

‘’ Good morning sir’’ Benjamin greeted.

‘’ Good morning. So you insist on leaving’’ Omoefe queried.

‘’ Yes’’

‘’ Okay, I will drop you off in the park’’

‘’ I need my work’’

Omoefe could hardly hide his disgust as he stared angrily at Benjamin. He left for his room and returned with the file.

‘’ Have it’’

Benjamin stretched his hand and took it. He followed Omoefe outside as they walked towards his car. He saw the prototype in the boot when he opened it in order to keep his luggage.

‘’ I will drop you off at the park’’ Omoefe said.

Benjamin sat beside Omoefe in the front and they drove to the central motor-park located at Nyanya. It was not very far from the residence of Omoefe. He gave Benjamin five thousand naira and left him with his file, luggage and prototype. Benjamin watched as he drove away and satisfied that he was gone, he brought out his phone and made a call. He waited by the busy roadside for about fifteen minutes before he saw the Toyota Camry driving towards him. The car stopped just in front of him and the leader of the three men came down. He proceeded to carry the prototype while Benjamin carried his luggage and they dropped them in the boot. He joined the leader at the back and they drove some distance into Nyanya and they stopped in front of an uncompleted building. Benjamin had a curious look on his face as he tried to identify with what they had come to do at the abandoned building.

‘’ Usman has a message for you’’ the leader said.

Benjamin nodded as he looked in the bloodshot eyes of the man. His voice was a thick glottal sound.

‘’ Here is a cheque of a hundred thousand naira. He wants you to handover everything to us’’

Benjamin looked aghast at the cheque. He had not seen this sum but it was a minor price for his dream.

‘’ I don’t want to sell, this was not what we discussed on phone’’ Benjamin protested.

‘’ The plan changed. You should be grateful for this handsome offer’’

Benjamin could barely hide his anger and distaste. He felt insulted.

‘’ I am not interested. I will call him’’

He brought out his phone to make a call and the leader snatched it from him. Anger was clearly written on his face.

‘’ You should know by now that you have no option. It is for you to take it or disappear’’

The look on the face of the leader was sinister. The car was unbearably quiet as Benjamin considered the option before him. Suddenly, he discovered that there was hardly any people on the street.

‘’ I wonder what you are thinking about. We have little time’’ the leader said.

‘’ I am not interested in the money or whatever Usman wants to give to me. I want to leave now’’

‘’ Okay, you are free’’

He opened the door and was about alighting when he felt a deadly force hit him just by the side of his abdomen. It was a shot and Benjamin could only remember the stern look on the leader’s face as he fell to the ground. The car drove away immediately leaving Benjamin in the throes of death. It was a deserted street and he could barely stand up due to the excruciating pain from the bullet wound. He could easily count his breath pulse as life slowly left him.

*************************
The news of Benjamin’s death was among the headlines in a major newspaper released the next morning. It was a case of an unnamed man who was not rescued on time from a case of suspected robbery. Omoefe was confronted by the image as he scanned through the newspaper at lunch. He took a brief look at the grisly image but for a moment he was drawn to the face of the victim. He felt he bore a striking resemblance to Benjamin. His suspicion gathered momentum after taking a look at the red t-shirt and blue jeans wore by the victim. He suddenly stood up seemingly overwhelmed with dread and fear. He had not bothered to call Benjamin after he left the previous day. He brought out his phone and called Benjamin’s phone number.

‘’ Hello’’ a male voice said.

‘’ Hello, I want to speak with Benjamin’’ Omoefe replied.

‘’ Sir, I am detective Ben from the CID’’ he said.

Omoefe suddenly went cold.

‘’ Hello’’

‘’ Oh, how did you get this phone?’ Omoefe asked.

‘’ The owner of this phone is in a critical state at the moment. Are you a relation?’ Ben asked.

‘’ Yes’’

‘’ We would appreciate if you can come over to our office’’

‘’ Okay’’

‘’ Do you know our office?’

‘’ Yes, I do’’

Omoefe struggled to stay on his feet as he sank back into the chair. The newspaper had confirmed it and he knew right then that the officer had chosen to hide the true state of affairs. He struggled to keep his feelings in check and then tears came streaming down his face. He brought out a white handkerchief and cleaned his face. There was a big question which he desired an answer to at that moment.

‘’ Who could have killed Benjamin’’

The questions kept streaming into his thoughts as he struggled to console himself. He stood up after some ten minutes and left the building immediately for the garage. He drove to the office of the CID. He registered his complaint to the receptionist who led him to the office of detective Ben. He is dark-skinned, tall and well built.

‘’ You are welcome sir’’ Ben said.

‘’ Thank you’’

‘’ Please what is your relationship with the victim’’

‘’ The victim is an indigene of my community. I brought him to Abuja and he left my house yesterday morning with the intention to travel back to the village. I dropped him off at the park in Nyanya’’

‘’ This is an incredible piece of information. His body was discovered in Wuse. I wonder what he went to do there’’

‘’ Sir, what is his condition presently?’ Omoefe asked.

Ben’s face fell at this point. It only confirmed Omoefe’s suspicion.

‘’ We found him dead’’

‘’ So what do this commission think about his death?’

‘’ He died from a bullet wound. Investigation still continues but we will release his body after an autopsy has been conducted. Can you inform his family on our behalf?’ Ben asked.

‘’ That is the hardest part sir. My head is swirling in confusion’’

‘’ I understand. The event surrounding his death is the most questionable part of our preliminary investigation. This information you have given just makes the case a bit difficult and at the same time easy to unravel if you are willing to volunteer more information’’

‘’ I think I have given you all the information you need sir’’

‘’ What is the name of the deceased?’

‘’ His name is Benjamin Okoh’’

‘’ Okay, sir, what is your name and your occupation?’

‘’ My name is Omoefe Irueru. I am a worker at the Federal ministry of works and productivity’’

‘’ Okay, that is good. Definitely since you said you brought him to Abuja, then you should be able to know something about his dealings and movement’’

‘’ I am not one to hold someone down for too long especially for someone as old as Benjamin. Benjamin was twenty-eight and he had come to search for job here. I effectively allowed him to do whatever he wants and that includes giving him the permission to move around the city’’

‘’ Sir, I do appreciate these information you have supplied. I can see you are shaken by the loss, you can go for now. I will call you when I need your help’’

‘’ Thank you’’

Omoefe walked out of the office with slumped shoulders. He knew the case would be hard to crack especially a one with so much secrets. He sat down in his car and rested his head on the steering. He managed to drive home after some time.
He arrived home and found that the door was locked. He reckoned his wife must have gone out. He raised the foot-mat in front of the door and took a single key that was beneath. He opened the door and entered the sitting-room. The house was dead silent. It only accentuated the feeling of loss that had overwhelmed him up till the present. He fell on the couch in the sitting-room and his mind went to work immediately.

He knew the death was not a mere coincidence. There was more to it that could not be revealed without a proper investigation which he feared was beyond the ability of the CID especially in relation to the fact that they had a bulk of past unresolved cases. He was brought back to reality when his phone rang. The caller was Benjamin’s father. He swallowed the saliva that had formed in his mouth.

‘’ Hello, dhewo sir’’ he greeted.

‘’ Vrendo Oza, how are you?’

‘’ I am fine sir’’

‘’ What is the state of things as regards Benjamin’s work. He has not given me any concrete reply since the last time we spoke’’
Omoefe struggled to keep the feelings of pain and regret that was coursing through his being. How was he going to reveal the fact that the owner of the project is dead and the project is nowhere to be found?

‘’ Oza’’

‘’ Sorry sir, it is undergoing a process and it will be sent across to the minister as soon as it is approved’’

‘’ Okay, thank you very much for your assistance’’

‘’ Thank you sir’’

He dropped the phone on the chair and he contemplated the white polymer ceiling that was staring back at him. He must have slept off as he came to consciousness after he felt a pat on his arm. He made out the face of his wife who was looking at him.

‘’ Honey, you returned early today’’ she said.
He stood up and his muscles creaked in satisfaction.

‘’ I have a problem’’ he said.

‘’ What is it?’ she asked still standing.

He had his head down as he contemplated the effect the story might have on his wife. He asked her to sit which she did with some curiosity.

‘’ Benjamin is dead’’ he said.

His wife was lost for words as she opened her mouth in shock. He bowed his head and heard soft sobs from her. He was gone past that now, his mind was firmly on how he was going to inform Benjamin’s father. It was also quite realistic to think that the puzzle around Benjamin’s death would not be unraveled.

llaykorn:
Keep this coming bro, I'm glued already.

You are welcome bro.

xaviercasmir, I take my work serious hence my decision to look beyond the cold reception sometimes. I appreciate your comment.