The time was 7:30PM as detective Farouk sped on the expressway leading to his house. Being a bachelor who has no woman or child waiting at home, he has the habit of returning home late every night. To him, his night is not complete without first making stops at a bar downtown where he will have a couple of drinks with catfish pepper soup, after which he would stop at any fastfood joint to either sit down to a plate of Amala or a take away. Today was a bit different as he had driven to FESTAC where he met Ada, the girl he met weeks ago at the supermarket, the same girl he gave his shopping bags and stuffs to in a bid to outsmart his stalkers. They had become friends since then, and Farouk felt something for her, but couldn’t make a move because he still wanted Sharon, the girl he had deflowered. Safely placed on the passenger seat was a flask in which fried rice and chicken was carefully dished. Ada had prepared the meal, prior to his arrival, and after eating a plate, he complimented her cooking and she rewarded him with another plate to take home. He couldn’t say who was the better cook between Ada and Sharon, even though he had eaten Sharon’s food on more than one occassion, it is safe to say he has gotten used to her food, but Ada’s food which he had ate on a few occassion still felt new to him, and above all, delicious. When considering how the two ladies understood him, Farouk knew Sharon self centered, stubborn and inconsiderate but Ada is more caring and understanding. He stepped on the accelerator as he allowed the speed meter run to it’s limit. It was his ritual to enter his street at full speed. “pim pim pim pim.” He horned impatiently even though he got no reply. “Where on earth is this useless boy?” He thought as he hornked again. Still not getting any response, he alighted and made for the bif black gate. “Adamu, where you dey?” He asked as he knocked loudly. Just like a movie, a wine coloured Nissan Murano came speeding on the opposite road and before Farouk could react, the car stopped in front of him and someone from the backseat released two quick shots. The first on his arm, and the other on his chest. The young detective fell down as loads of blood gushed out of his perforated body parts.

It was another reason to smile as Ojo was again granted bail after the trial was adjourned. All thanks to Detective Farouk’s expertise and Barrister Ben’s genuinety. Seated beside him was Lola, and also in the living room with us is Farouk and Ben. Ojo, with all hopes lost seems to have been given a new lifeline which is a sign of good things to come. As a helpless man who had nobody, not even a friend who could help him out of his present predicament. But, for Lola who is friends with Ben and Ben who is friends with Farouk. Without involving him, agreement was made and they all agreed to work free of charge. And with the way they have handled the case, one would think they have been promised a billion naira each. “But, are you sure that your evidence are genuine?” Ben asked all of a sudden. “I can bet it with anything. No one can counter my evidences in court. They all points to another direction, making Ojo a victim of circumstance and being at the wrong place at the wrong time.” Farouk explained. “That means we can all go home happy?” Ben asked. “Exactly.” Farouk replied. “And I sincerely do hope the evidences are well kept. You know, there are some cabals against us. They won’t give us a smooth ride. Who knows? They may be searching franctically for you and your evidence.” Ben explained. “I have thought about that. And moreso, the entire evidence is kept with the least expected person known to me. She is a friend, but no one knows, not even you. And I plan meeting you over the weekend so we can discuss extensively on it. I want you to have an idea of your argument.” “Good idea. But, can we trust your unknown friend?” Ben asked. “You do not know who you’ll do without in situations like this.” Farouk replied. “I have to go, it is 3PM already. I don’t want to miss the 4PM prayer.” The two friends stood up and made for the exit, just in time when Ojo walked Lola out of his room. “So, you are going to leave without telling us? ehn Mr Farouk?” Lola asked smiling. “I have somewhere I am rushing to. And by the way, you didn’t tell anybody before you left us in the living room. So, we are squared.” Farouk replied. Moments later, they are all standing next to detective Farouk’s car. “So, I’ll give you a call, and keep your eyes on your mail. I may just send the evidences over.” He said before zooming out of the compound. “Let me give you a ride.” Ben said to Lola who was ready to leave too. “No, thanks. I’ll find my way.” She declined as she moved closer to Ojo, enveloped him in a hug and kissed him lightly on the lip. “I’ll be here tomorrow love.” She whispered, but loud enough for the next person to hear. “Alright Ben, I’ll call you.” She said to the lawyer whose face was full of jealousy, but only covered with a plastic smile. “Take care.” He replied. ——— Inside a dimly lit room, a group of ten men were seated, all looking gloomy, even in the dark. The atmosphere was tensed, misty and could make an outsider uncomfortable. “Barrister, today is the day, we have had enough.” A man who sat on a different chair, more like a throne began. “It is obvious we can’t win in court, but we can win in court.” He continued. “So, you’ll watch Farouk for the next few hours, then kill him at any slight chance you’ve got.” “Okay boss.” One of the men replied. “He outsmarted us the first time, we can’t let him do it again. Now is the time to wipe him off. We can’t let him win against us in court with his evidence, allowing that will not only free the inoccent Ojo, but incriminate all of us.” The boss explained further. “So, tonight is the night. Failure to wipe Detective Farouk out of the surface of the earth today is the end for you, Scorpion.” He said to the man who has been replying him since he started talking. “I am not new in the game, so I know what is at stake.”

There you are, look ^^ the update is there,

donkross1:


Aja 10, destinambari

Hehehehehe... Badman thing.

21

The next day in court, Ojo was led to the dock by his counsel, Barrister Ben and a stern looking policeman who looked like he was going to shoot the next person who made a sound.
“Make una enter jor.” The policeman said when he realized that Ojo was starting to converse with his counsel.
“Keep your cool man. Your job is to lead him to the dock and not to push him into the dock.” Ben replied angrily.
Surprisingly the policeman kept quiet.
“Look here, I can’t guarantee you a fair hearing today. Not because I am incompetent, but because the ogas are against me today as you must have noticed. Look at them, they are all Senior advocates.” Ben explained pointing at the five lawyers sitting at the prosecuting counsel’s bench. “They are filing an application on why you should be returned to the prison and attend your trial from there till the end. You and I know you are innocent of the crime, but we both know they are powerful, and in this country, power does it. But hopefully, Farouk gets here on time, he has some real evidence which negates your involvement.” Ben explained further while Ojo nodded in affirmation.
Just then, the Chief Judge walked into the coutroom through another door and everyone rose up to acknowledge his presence. “I’ll see you after the case.” Ben laughed as he shook hands with Ojo who walked into the dock that moment.
Forty five minutes into the hearing, one of the prosecuting counsels was on his feet talking. “I still don’t understand why the accused, Mr Ojo was granted bail during the last hearing, with all the glaring evidence presented, both from the prosecutors and the police, this court of law still believes that such criminal is best allowed to go home. Go home and do what if I may ask? Scheme on who to kill next?” He asked, but his question was met with disapproving murmur from the crowd. “If there are external forces influencing the decision of this court concerning this case, then I am afraid to say we will shift ground and head to the high court.” He continued.
In the last forty five minutes, only the prosecutors have been speaking as the defence counsel only sat on his bench, taking notes from what his opponents were saying. Most people in the court room already believed his game was up as he looked like one lawyer without any idea of what he was doing. Even Ojo, the accused who entered the dock confidently was now asking himself if Ben is the right man for his case.
“My lord, I present to this court the DNA conducted at the lab, here is the accussed person’s finger prints all over the deceased’s body. And here is a picture of the accussed trying to scale the fence after committing the act. The third exhibit is the local vigillante’s statement which further confirms the accussed person’s involvement in the murder.” The prosecutor continued.
“The defence counsel would like to present a witness. Mr Farouk, please come on here.” The court clerk announced, and the smart police detective moved on to the witness box where he took the oath and presented his defence.
“I am Inspector Farouk, an investigating police officer. Over the last few weeks, I have worked tirelessly towards getting the truth and bringing it to fore. First of all, my question goes to the men of the Nigerian police force. I ask them, where is thy sense of patriotism?” Farouk began. “My lord, this exhibit here is a shirt belonging to the accused. The same shirt he was wearing the night he was arrested and on his right shoulder, there is a patch of dried sweat belonging to another man who could have been the killer, because the accussed confessed to have bumped into some heavily built man outside the gate as he was going into the house that fateful night. The police kept this away and presented non incriminating evidences against the accussed.” He paused as the crowd all cheered.
“Order.” The clerk boomed.
The prosecuting counsels all exchanged a look of defeat at the latest revelation while Ojo had a reason to smile.
“The hearing resumes after a thirty minute recess. The accussed is not to leave the dock, but can entertain friends and families without restriction.” The judge proclaimed.
The court dissolved for a moment as the crowd dispersed, while some went out for refreshment, other went out for fresh air.
“Hello darling.” Lola smiled as she held Ojo’s hand. “Good morning Mr Farouk, morning Ben.” She greeted the two men who were chatting with Ojo.
“Good morning Lola.” Farouk replied.
Lola couldn’t care less if Ben replied or not, because just last night ago as he was driving her back home, he had made his intentions known, and there she told him she is Ojo’s girlfriend and not cousin as he thought.
Her eyes darted through the crowd and there was the man from the other night; the man she slapped, Jackson with his trademark smile.

–tbc…
For more, visit; www.penprimus.com

donkross1:

Make network gbera oo

Aja what is the network?

donkross1:
Baba wey the second one na sheybi na 2 updates we dey always get

Network no gree me ni o

20

OJO

I sat uneasily inside the KFC restaurant, not to far from our estate gate. I had left the house unoticed, thanks to Dad hosting the members of his club to a meeting which is all about eating, as I have never heard them discuss anything meaningful. All they do is come in their numbers, sit, eat and discuss round issues ranging from politics to life round issues. To ensure that my absense wasn’t noticed, I had worked tirelessly together with the caterers who were contracted to cook for the guests. I made sure everything they needed got to them especially, as they are not allowed to enter the store room or anywhere in the house, all these I did selflessly much to the chagrin of my mother who felt I need more rest because of my condition and dad who felt I should shy away from helping him because he had scolded me, up to the point of denying me freedom to go out of the house, but I know my game plan.
So, when Ben’s call came in some minutes after six o’clock in the evening, I stood up, took my bath and left the house, with the hope of spending an hour at most before sneaking back into the house. But here I am, waiting for Ben. Two hours down the drain, he was yet to show up, and everytime I called, he seems to be driving which has kept my hopes high that he is on his way.
“Good evening.” A young and handsome man greeted.
I raised my head up to face him. “Good evening.” I replied curtly.
“I have been seated over there where I had the opportunity to keep my eyes on you all night long. From the look of things, you are waiting for your husband, boyfriend or a client and he or she seems to have disappointed you or is on a verge of disappointing you.” He paused and took a deep breathe.
“What exactly is your mission here?” I was irritated by the fact that he is a man who likes to talk.
“I have come to keep your company.” He replied.
“And what if I don’t need you keeping my company?” I asked.
To my surprise, he eased himself into the chair opposite mine with a smile on his face. “Girls find it hard to turn me down.” He bragged. Almost immediately, a waiter arrived who dropped a plate of chicken and a pack of fruit juice. He must have noticed my eyes glaring at the compartment where the chicken was kept since I arrived.
“I am not other girls, I am Omolola.” I replied angrily.
He simply laughed. “Thanks for telling me your name even if I didn’t ask.” He mocked. Even the waiter gave a chuckle.
“A penny for your thought?” The annoying brat before me asked waving his hand accross my face.
I came out of my reverie with a smile. “I have to go.” I announced.
“Not without taking your contact.” He replied, more like telling me I am going nowhere unless I give him my contact detail.
“And what if I don’t?” I asked.
This time, he had risen on his feet, still wearing a smile.
“Watch me and watch what I’ll do.” He threatened.
For a moment, I thought he was bluffing, but the look on his face says otherwise.
Just then I saw Ben walk in through the door. With a smile, I grabbed my bag and made to leave, but a strong hand held me strongly and pulled me back. I lost control and faced the obnoxious man who still wore a smile and delivered a resounding slap on his right cheeks. His smile faded immediately.
Every eye turned towards us and for a moment, I wish I hadn’t slapped him. “He shouldn’t have grabbed your hand like that.” A voice justified my action.
“What’s going on here?” Ben asked.
“This man was harrassing me so I slapped him.” I replied.
Ben faced the man, “Barrister Ben?” He asked.
“Jackson?” Ben asked as the two men shook hands happily.
“I never knew it was you. I was going to beat whoever it was to stupor.” Ben laughed.
The man, Jackson did too. “And you’ll be sued for public assault of a fellow legal practitioner.” He replied.
“I commend you for your bravery at handling the petroleum bribery case. I couldn’t believe you stood against two serving senators, you are the boss.” Ben said.
“It is one of those things.” He replied.
I cleared my throat to remind them of my presence. “We will see some other time Jack.” Ben said.
“Yeah and goodluck with the murder case you are defending.” Jackson replied. “I may draft into your team if I get less busy in the coming weeks.” He added before walking away.
“He is a friend.” Ben said as we both walked out of the restaurant, but I kept mute. “Won’t you at least say something?” He asked.
“What do you want me to say?” I replied. “You kept me waiting her for hours, till I had to embarrass myself in public by hitting a man….” I was ranting but he shushed me. Only then did I realize we were standing next to his car.
He opened the passenger door. “Hop in, I’ll drive you home then we’ll talk.”

--tbc...

For more, visit; www.penprimus.com

hezsquirt:
seriously, this story z making sensw

Thanks boss

Peterdrumz:
Man i dey enjoy this story the story make me no write my project today pls update soon and good work

Abeg o! Face that project and read the story every once in a while during your free time.
More updates to come.

19

OJO

I was seated in the living room with two of Barrister Ben’s children when Sharon walked in.
“Welcome Aunty.” The kids said in unison while the youngest of them, the boy ran to hug their aunt.
“Welcome Aunty.” I said in a mockery tone.
She smiled at me. “Thank you.” She replied. “Go and finish your homework.” She said to the boy who returned to where I was putting them(himself and his sister) through with their homework.
Few minutes later, I heard the shower running, which means Sharon was taking her bath, and as an after thought, I spoke to the kids.
“Queen, Junior.” I called.
“Yes Uncle?” They replied.
“Do not tell your daddy that Aunty Sharon didn’t come to pick you guys in school, okay?”
“We won’t say a thing.” The girl, Queen replied.
I patted them both on the head as we continued with the assignment.
Moments later, Junior who has been unusually quiet spoke up. “But why?” He asked.
“What?” I replied, while his sister who knew what to expect gave him a not so good look.
“Aunty Sharon didn’t come to pick us in school, we had to come in the school bus which made us uncomfortable, now dinner is not ready, if not for you, we wouldn’t have had lunch and you asked us not to tell our daddy.”
“Junior, can’t you adhere to instruction without asking questions?” His sister asked.
“Shut up. You are always doing things without asking questions. Will you jump inside a river if you are asked to without knowing why?”
To asy I was amazed by the little boy’s intelligence. Even though he is not very sound with his books, at least with what I have seen since we started his homework, unlike his sister who did the English and Mathematics without any assistance from me, but the boy is a critical thinker which is a rare gift.
“Junior, you know I just moved in here right?” I asked and he nodded in affirmation. “This is the first thing I am asking you to do for me, just do it.” I added.
“Uncle, this is not about you, but Aunty Sharon. Don’t plead for her.” He replied.
“Junior, please nau.” His sister joined in the pleading.
“Will I watch Nickoledion?” He asked.
“Yes.” His sister replied.
“For one week?” He asked.
“One week is too much, three days.” His sister replied.
“No o….”
They continued their argument while I stood up and made for Sharon’s room. By my calculation, ten minutes is enough for her to get dressed.
“Come in.” She said after my knock sounded on the door.
I pushed the door open and walked in.
“How will you explain your coming late tonight?” I asked.
“I went out, and why should I explain myself to you?” She replied.
“You do not owe me any explanation, but what will you tell your brother if he gets to know you didn’t go to pick the kids from school and they didn’t have lunch, and here they are 9PM and dinner is not served, not even on fire.”
“He is my brother, not yours, I will explain myself to him.” She snapped.
“Obviously, your outing didn’t go wel, sorry about that.” I mocked. “But next time, do not snap or disrespect me because I live with you guys and because I am concerned about you.” I added. “And don’t worry about the kids, they have agreed to cover your tracks, so, get into the kitchen and fix them dinner before their father returns.” With this, I made for the door.
“Please wait!” She said.
I stopped in my tracks just as I placed my hand on the door knob. I turned to face her.
“Forgive me for being rude, and thank you for covering for me.” She said.
I simply nodded before walking out of the room.
“Junior, I have your word right?” I reminded the little boy.
“I cross my heart.” He replied.

–tbc…
For more, visit; www.penprimus.com

18

OJO

After regaining my lost strength, I went into the living room where I sat to watch some musical videos with Sharon who seemed knowledgable about the music industry. She criticised from video quality to sound quality, down to each song’s punchline and lyrics. I was tempted to ask if someone was paying her for her effort, but I knew best not to.
My ringing phone made her reduce the volume of the sound system. Alas, it was Lola. Why is she calling me?
“Hello?” I answered.
“Hello darling. Thank God.” She heaved. “How are you?” She asked.
“I’m good.” I replied.
“I’ve been calling you for the past few days. Whatsup with you?” She asked.
“Nothing much. Why didn’t you show up at the hearing?”
“Am very sorry darling. Dad restricted me from going out.” She replied.
“Is that it?” I asked.
“No, it doesn’t affect us in anyway, even though Ben said I should stay away from you for now.” She replied. “to avoid you being distracted and for security.” She added.
“I see.”
“Come on darling, why are you sounding like that?” She asked.
“Nothing. I hope you are good?”
“Yeah, save for the morning sickness. I’ll start my ante natal once I return to school this weekend.”
I spent a little over twenty minutes talking to Lola, but in a the twenty minutes, I never felt anything. All I had with her were casual discussions.
“Is that your girlfriend?” Sharon asked as soon as I dropped the call.
“Yeah.” I replied turning my attention back to the tv which was now showing a movie.
The movie being a romance themes movie has a lot in common with the trio of Barrister Ben, Detective Farouk and Sharon. Even though the main character in the movie, is a young business man, whose younger sister is in love with his(the business man) bestfriend. And when the business man found out, he attacked his friend at a party, and they severed ties afterwards.
“This movie looks familiar, like I have seen such in real life.” I said.
Sharon turned to look at me, but said nothing.
“But, is there anything bad in a friend dating one’s sister?” I asked.
“I don’t know o.” She replied.
After a few minutes, she excused herself and went in, only to return dressed as if there is an outing. “You’re going somewhere?” I found myself asking.
“Yeah, I’ve got some shoppings to do in the supermarket down the street.” She replied.
“Mind if I tag along?” I asked.
Her response interrupted by her ringing phone which was more closer to me than to her. I picked the phone and passed it to her, but not without checking the screen, and boldly written on the screen was FAROUK.
She collected the phone and exused herself.
“Farouk, isn’t that your brother’s friend. Why is he calling you?” I asked as we walked on the street, moments later, on our way to the supermarket.
She went silent for over a minute, before coming up with a weak reply. “He used to date a friend of mine before she left for service. Now, he wants her back.”
“I’m not convinced.” I replied laughing.
“I wasn’t expecting you to be convinced.” She said. “moreso, I owe you no explanation.” She added.
We continued walking with no one saying a word to the other, until a few yards away from the parking lot, when I saw something familiar.
“Sharon, isn’t that the detective’s car?” I asked pointing at a cream coloured Toyota camry.
“No, I don’t think so.” She replied and immediately quickened her steps, leaving me with no choice but to follow.
———-
A few metres away from the supermarket’s gate, a Van was parked, and seated behind the wheel was Alfa. With the help of his binoculars, he saw a young lady walk in with Ojo(the criminal) and after a few minutes, the lady came out through the exit and hurriedly walked towards a Toyota camry which Ojo earlier pointed to before they went in.
“Hey boss! I see them already. The good old detective and a young lady with Ojo are currently outside and inside the supermarket.” He said into his reciever.
“Keep tabs on them. Remember, the detective is your target.” A voice at the other end replied.

–tbc….
For more, visit; www.penprimus.com

Missyetty:
Wow! This is my first reading your story and i am already in love with this one. I love crime stories, they are quite intriguing......#sippingMyColdKunu

Thanks ma'am

ewatomi424:
You are seriously talented, God bless your Brain

Thanks ma'am. I'm honoured to have you here

Tmboy:
Learning and following............really intresting....good job bro

Thanks boss

BraniacX:
I'll say this for you @OP
You're effing good
And my complements are rare so savour it

I am savouring it already

olafunny:
Oga abeg, i don carry stove nd pot come here. I won dey cook beans dey folow the story ni o. Oya *adjusts glasses* carry go

Hehehehehe.... Beans? Reminds me of Psalmwise

kenwins:
There is someone with the monicker, follow.ing. So, following had better come and start 4-low-in.


Great work dee.

Thanks ma'am

kwencypresh:

Lilyomi2:

adeh39:

handie:
Nice one Dee. When it comes to delivering, you never disappoint. Keep it up bruv

It's been a while bro

17

OJO

I woke up the next morning with a splitting headache. With the way my head ached, it felt like it was going to break into two or explode. I couldn’t remember how and when I slept, but a look around the room, I discovered someone has been there this morning.
A stoold stood beside the bed, on which a bottle of water and some tablets stood. I moved closer to the stool and as I made to grab the bottle, in a bid to quench my thirst, the door opened and Sharon walked in. In the two days I have spent in the house, I haven’t for once noticed how beautiful she is, but that morning, something triggered me into looking at her differently, and for the first time, I took note of her physical appearance. From her full and curvy hips to her moderate sized boobs, down to her big behind and small waist. She looked like the human version of the coca-cola bottle.
“Good morning.” She greeted.
“Morning.” I replied. “What’s up?” I asked.
“Uncle came in here with the hope of talking to you before going out, then he saw you running temperature. He instructed me to get drugs before you wake up.” She explained.
“What time is it?” I asked.
“Ten fifty.” She replied.
I slowly sat up and picked the drugs. She named them and told me what each tablet worked for as I picked them. As I made to uncoat one of them, she stopped me.
“You wanna use them on empty stomach?” She asked.
“I will, if I have to. This headache is life threatening.” I replied.
“Well, you won’t die. Lemme quickly go and check if the food is ready to be served.” She said calmly.
“What are you cooking?” I asked.
“I am keeping you on suspense as regards to that.” She laughed as she walked out of the room.
I slumped back on the bed, and reached for my phone which hasn’t been switched on since I arrived at Barrister Ben’s residence. As soon as the phone came on, series of messages flew in.
I kept my calm, while I let the messages enter and when the last of them came in, I expanded my inbox.
2 new messages from Lola
1 new message from and unknown number.
6 new messages from another unknown number.
Curiousity got the better of me as I clicked open the six messages and what I met was shocking. All the messages looked similar, as the only difference was in the time they were sent, even though with uniformed time interval.
You can only delay justice, but not death. Watch your back.Was the body of the message.
A cold chill ran down my spine, and immediately, the headache disappeared, as balls of sweat rolled down.
“You are sweating already. That’s a sign of you getting better.” Sharon said. I didn’t even know when she entered.
“If only you know why I am sweating, you’ll fear.” I thought as I adjusted on the bed.
“Here is rice, I hope you don’t mind? We eat rice alot in this house, so don’t blame me.” She said setting the food on the stool, while packing the unused drugs aside. “Eat up, I’ll be in the living room.” She urged.
As she made for the door, I felt a urge to call her and I did. “Sharon.”
she turned to face me almost immediately, as if she was expecting me to call her.
“What’s between you and Detective Farouk?” I asked.
“What is between me and Uncle Farouk? What is that supposed to mean?” She replied.
“Do not pretend, I overheard your conversation with him last night.” I could see the shock registered on her face as I said that.
“And what is it that you heard?” She asked, probably trying to get words out of my mouth.
“Are you sleeping with him? He is your brother’s friend for crying out loud, do you think he loves you?” I asked, but what followed my question is enough to tell me I had bitten more than I can chew. A slap.
The last time a lady slapped me was the first time I approached Lola for a relationship. I held my cheek as I stared at the enraged lady who stood before me.
“Who are you to ask me questions about my personal life? Is it because I took you in as a friend?” She asked and also made another attempt to slap my face.
I waited expectantly for the slap which never came, but all I saw was a hand waving accross my face.
“What is it?” I asked.
“Are you okay?” She asked in reply. “You seem lost. Faraway. What were you thinking?” She added.
“Nothing. I just remembered something.” I replied as I slumped back on the bed.
“So, why did you call me?” She asked.
“Can you stay here with me while I eat?”
She stood for a while, staring at me, as if to read my mind. “No problem, let me change into something decent.” She replied.
That was when I noticed she was still in her nighties. Even though not it is decent enough, I know there is a spirit attached to nighties and sexual urge in men.

–tbc….
For more, visit; www.penprimus.com

16

OJO


The time was 7PM and I have retired into the guest room when the kids noise became unbearable. Sharon had gone to pick the two of them from school, and immediately they entered the house, it was one noise or the other while Sharon did her best to keep them in check.
There was a knock on my door. “Yes?” I asked.
“Uncle wants to see you.” Came Sharon’s voice.
I stood up calmly and walked out of the guest room.
“Good evening Mr Ojo.” Barrister Ben greeted as soon as I entered the living room.
“Good evening sir.” I replied. One thing is, I don’t know what his exact age is, but even if he is five years younger than me, I will gladly prostrate for him, because right now, he has something I desperately seek. He is the key to my freedom.
“How was your day?” He asked.
“Fine.” I replied.
“This is my friend, Farouk, the detective, I suppose you two have met before.” He said.
“Good evening sir.” I quickly greeted the detective who stretched his hand for a handshake which I warmly took.
“Hope you are enjoying your stay?” He asked.
I nodded in the affirmative after which I sat down and the real reason for my summon began.
“Mr Ojo, I’m afraid we may never get justice on your case.” Detective Farouk began.
“How do you mean sir?” I asked uneasily.
“Well, to break it down. There are some people who wants you to suffer for a crime you didn’t commit. I think your life is in danger now.” He explained.
Everything still looked confusing, so I asked for more explanation.
“I was at the mall today and I saw some men whose presence looked suspicious. After I had spotted their car on my trail when I was driving to the mall. So, I called for backup and one of them was arrested, but we have nothing against him except that his movement looked suspicious. And being a detective, I can’t interfere in certain police decisions. So, he has being released, but my instinct tells me he has something up his sleeves.” He explained.
Now everything was becoming clearer. “So, what do you suggest?” I asked.
“I don’t think anyone knows your are here except your woman. Let’s just hope no one knows you are here. You have a hearing next week, we will know what to do after your hearing. But first, we need to defend your case on your next hearing. Whatever the judge rules will determine our next line of action, and remember we are in a war against senior lawyers.” He explained.
“God will see us through.” I replied.
After some general discussions, I excused myself and returned to my room, and just before I shut the door, I heard Farouk ask.
“So, you’ve been kicked out of Ruppert?”
“Yes o. I am now independent without connection. How do I get cases to defend, how do I get money?” Ben replied.
“Your track record would speak for you.” Farouk replied. “But I can’t believe you can be kicked out of a chamber you helped build because you are defending an innocent man.”
That was when it dawned on me that, defending my case is costing the barrister more than he bargained for.
I sadly walked into my room and thirty minutes later, I heard the front door close while Ben quickly went into his room. From my room, I knew the detective just exited the house.
“I’ve been waiting for a while, why do you want to see me?” It was none other person than Sharon. She was standing outside my window.
“You know why I want to see you Sharon….” Farouk was saying.
“And I said it can’t work.” Sharon replied.
“It can work my dear. Just give me a chance.”
“You are my brother’s friend. Things don’t work that way.” Sharon replied.
“And what about what we had?” Farouk asked.
“What did we have?” Sharon asked, just in time when the front door opened and Ben stepped out.
Farouk walked out from the side of the house, while Sharon tip toed back into the house.
What do these two have between them? Was the question on my mind as I slept off.

--tbc...
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15

LOLA


As usual, I was the only one at home as dad has gone to work and mum in her shop. Both of them won’t be returning until after 6PM, which gives me a couple of hours to go check on Ojo, even if I don’t know where he is presently. The last that I heard of his hearing was his bail. Every other thing; maybe he returned to his apartment or somewhere else, I don’t know. It became more disturbing when he refused to answer my calls the previous night, same as this morning.
“No matter what, I must see him today.” I concluded as I dashed for the bathroom, took a quickbath, returned to my room and got dressed.
I was in front of the dressing mirror when my phone vibrated. A new text message. I clicked the expand icon on the screen, and the entire body of the message came to view.
“I am somewhere close to your estate. Are you at home? If yes, send me the description.” Ben.
I was thrilled to recieve a message from Ben as for now, he is the key to me seeing Ojo. Being the lawyer in charge of his case, he must know where Ojo went after his bail was granted yesterday.
Therefore, I had to apply a light make-up, comprising of my powder and lip gloss while I awaited Ben’s arrival.
A horn at the gate sent shivers down my spine. My greatest fear is; my old professor of a father driving in that moment. And so with a lot of prayers running through my mind, I stood at the window which is directly opposite the gate. I heaved a sigh of relief when my mum’s Toyota drove into the compound.
“What is the woman looking for this afternoon?” Was the question on my mind as I sat down on one of the couches.
“Anybody home?” She bellowed as she walked into the living room.
“Welcome mummy.” I greeted going on my knees.
“How are you?” She asked.
“Am fine. You came back early today, any problem?”
“I wasn’t feeling well, so I decided to come home and rest.” She replied. “Are you going out?” She asked when she noticed the way I was dressed.
“No, expecting a visitor.” I replied just in time when my phone rang. “Hello Ben.” I said into the reciever.
“Come outside.” He said, more of a command.
I excused myself from my mum who wanted to know who my visitor is, especially after she heard me call him Ben, she knew he has to be a man.
——
I walked out of our compound and a few blocks away was Ben’s car. I approached him.
“Hi.” I said.
“Good afternoon.” I replied. “Let’s go inside.” I suggested.
“No, it is okay here.” He replied.
“My dad could come back anytime. He must not meet me out here.” I explained.
“What? Why? Are you grounded?” He asked in bewilderment.
I nodded in the affirmative.
He chuckled “Are you a teenager? Na wa o.”
After another minute of pleading with him, he agreed to follow me into the house.
“So, how is Ojo? Thanks for securing his bail. I know I owe you, but I don’t know how to pay back.” I said as we entered the compound.
“Ojo is fine. Oh yes! You owe me a lot.” He laughed.
“So, where is he staying now that he is out of the cell?” I asked.
“My place. I can’t let him go to his apartment alone because it is risky.” He replied. “But, you can’t see him for now.” He added.
“Why? Is anything the matter?” I asked.
“It is against the ethics. My friend Farouk, the detective has deployed a few of his men in the area. They are keeping twenty four hours surveillance. Your visit would arouse suspicion, and moreso, Ojo doesn’t need any distraction for now.” He explained.
I have watched a couple of films with similar situation, and no one was prevented from seeing the accused persons. Therefore, I didn’t find Ben’s explanation convincing, but on a second thought, this is Nigeria where everything is in the opposite.
“Good afternoon ma.” Ben greeted my mum as soon as we entered the living.
“Good afternoon my son. How are you?” Mum replied with great enthusiasm. One that I have never seen before, not even when she met Ojo whom I introduced as my boyfriend.

--tbc...
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14

A black Honda EOD as it is popularly called was parked outside the central mall with two occupants seated upfront. Just then, the backdoor swung open and the man identified as Alfa Azeez hopped in.
“How far?” One of the two men, who was behind the wheel asked.
“He is inside the mall.” Alfa Azeez replied.
“How long do you think it would take him to come out?” Man 2 on the passenger seat upfront asked.
“I can’t say for sure, because it looked like he is still shopping, plus he was talking to a lady when I checked. If we put those togetherm plus the time he would spend on the queue to pay. I’ll say twenty minutes.” Alfa Azeez explained.
“Do we have that luxury?” Man 1 behind the wheels asked.
“No.” Man 2 replied. “We’ve spent a lot of time here and it is only in a matter of time before the security comes back to check on us.”
“Maybe we’ll just pay for additional parking time.” Alfa Azeez replied.
“That would be suspicious.” Man 1 said. “We have to pretend like we are shoppers too.” He added.
“I hope you know I can’t go in. The police officer already saw me, moreso, he saw me last night too.” Alfa Azeez explained.
“I’ll do it.” Man 2 offered.
“Good! Just a couple of light shopping and more of windowshop to buy us time.” Man 1 replied just in time when the security man walked to their side.
“Excuse me.” He said.
“There won’t be a need for that. We still have a couple of things to buy, so he’ll go in and do that now. The two of us will just stay here waiting.” Man 1 explained.
The security man stared at the three men for a moment before straightening up and walking back to the security post.
___BACK INSIDE THE MALL, detective Farouk held a shopping basket while he discussed with a young lady of about twenty five. From the look of things, the lady is a shopper too, even though she doesn’t have a basket nor a trolley, but she held the two things she bought in her hand. One a box of chocolate and the other, a soft drink.
“You are a detective with a gentle heart.” The lady complimented. “Even though that doesn’t change the aspersion I have on police officers. You all are bad.” She added amidst laughter.
Farouk smiled too. “We are not all bad, but we have too many bad eggs. And since the majority of the men in the force are bad, people see all of us as being bad.” He explained.
“So, you are not bad?” She asked.
“Try me.” Farouk laughed.
“You should be on duty now and not shopping.” She said.
“Well, I am on duty.” He replied.
“Tell me.” She said making a face.
“Classified info. Top secret.” He replied. “Don’t you think we should pay up and leave?”
“Yeah.”
Just as Farouk walked past her in leading the way to the counter, the lady caught a whiff of his cologne. “What cologne do you wear?” She asked.
“Hausa perfume.” Detective Farouk replied.
“Come on, be serious.”
“I am Abdullahi Farouk from Kano state. I only use made in Nigeria products and Hausa perfume is one of such.” Even he himself could not help but laugh at his explanation.
Just then through the ajoining glass covering the next section, he could see a man stealing occassional glances while pretending to shop.
“Here, take this. Pay up with this, I’ll call you.” Farouk said as he gave his shopping basket and a couple of naira notes to the lady.
“What for?” She asked.
“I have a bad feeling the man in the section over there is after me. I need to slip off while I still can.” He explained and left immediately.
——
Fifteen minutes has passed, and man 2 is not yet back. While Alfa Azeez and man 1 sat restlessly in the car, a police van drove into the premises. Immediately, man 1 started the ignition and slowly pulled out of the parking lot.
“Something is wrong.” He said.”
“What about….” Alfa Azeez was saying.
“It is better they arrest only one than the three of us.” Man 1 replied as he stepped on the gas.
____Detective Farouk walked out of the supermarket.
“He is still inside.” He said to the leader of the patrol team who immediately instructed his boys to go in while Farouk described the physical outlook of his stalker.
Less than five minutes later, they walked out with Man 2 on handcuff.
“We will take him in for questioning.” The patrol team leader said.
“Good. I will be there at the close of work.” Farouk replied. “Thanks for coming to my timely rescue.”
“You’re welcome detective.”

--tbc...
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13

OJO

By the time I woke up in the morning, the day was far spent. Lifting my eyes to the wall clock, the time says 11AM.
“Oh God!” I muttered as I got up from the bed and proceeded into the ajoining bathroom where I washed my face, then cleaned my mouth.
After which I went to the living room which was empty and well arranged. I sat down calmly as I flipped through the channels available.
“Where is everybody?” I asked myself as I stood up and proceeded into the kitchen which was empty as well, even though through the window, I could see a figure outside.
“Who is in there?” Barrister Ben’s sister asked.
“Its me.” I replied.
“Good morning sir. You breakfast is inside the warmer.” She said.
Seeing that I was in the kitchen, she must have thought that I was there because of food. Even though I am hungry, I must not show desperation. So, I left the kitchen and proceeded to meet her at the back of the house where she was washing.
“Good morning.” I greeted.
“How was your night?” She asked as she carried a bucket filled with clothes.
“Lemme help you.” I offered.
I knew she was going to protest, so I wrestled the bucket from her even before she reacted to me offer.
“Thanks.” She said as she led me to the clothing line. “I wanted to wake you up when Uncle was leaving for work, but he asked me to leave you.” She said.
“Thanks for not waking me up…” I drawled.
“Just call me Sharon.” She said.
“Nice name Sharon.” I complimented while she smiled.
When it comes to getting the desireable ‘lights’ from women, I am quite good with making them comfortable, especially with my fluency and looks. But just as a comedian once said; “person wey get money no fit sabi toast woman.” “the one wey sabi toast woman, no fit get money.” “the one wey get money, wey sabi toast woman, fit mumu.” As funny as it seems, there is still a bit of truth, because as for me, I sabi toast woman, but I no get money.
I ended up chatting with Sharon for the rest of the morning when she finished washing around twelve. By then, I knew enough about her already. She is twenty two, a student of the State university, studying Accounting.
“Do I dish your food now or when?” She asked from the kitchen.
“Abeg! The hunger wey dey worry me no be here at all.” My response drew out hysteric laughter from her.
“You too like food.” She said amidst laughter.
“I like good food.” I replied.
She walked into the living room bearing a tray on top of which a covered plate, a bottled water and a glass cup stood. “You cook nice.” I added.
“Thanks.” She replied.
I knew there had to be some sort of boundaries between us. First of all, as a respect to her brother who is helping me out of my case, and secondly because we are not mates and to avoid being disrespected. Lastly, because of my girlfriend, Lola.
“But, not as good as my girlfriend.” I added.
She dropped the tray on a stool in front of me. “I don’t need to be as good as she is. You already said I’m good. That’s enough.” She replied.
We continued chatting as I ate, and this time, it was my turn to tell her about myself.
“Life is full of ups and downs.” She said.
“Yeah, but I think mine is full of downs.” I replied.
“I trust Uncle Ben to get you out of the case permanently. He is one of the best around.” She marketed. “I hope you girlfriend hasn’t deserted you cos of your present predicament? That’s what most of them do.” She asked.
As if aware of the present situation, even though I kept mum as I ate silently.

--tbc....
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12

Mrs Ambrose sat with her daughter inside her room as they discussed the
issue at hand.
“Omolola, why?” The elderly woman cried. “What were you thinking? You still
have a lot ahead of you, first of all is your degree, you haven’t written your
final exams yet. The NYSC is ahead of you, upon completion, you will have to
join the saturated labour market, fight it out to get a job. All these you can’t
do with the distraction of a pregnancy.”
Even though Lola knew getting pregnant is a bad idea, but a risk worth
taking. Hence, the reason she stopped taking pills and the next time she had
sex with Ojo, she took it without struggle. She was ready to go as far as
possible in ensuring that she spends the rest of her life with Ojo, even though
she knew he parents will never give their blessing to such union, but after
recieving advice from Cindy, one of her friends in secondary school who is
now married. Her friend advised her based on the strategy she used on her
parents, which was to get pregnant for the man they so much despise, and a
marriage was arranged. Maybe Lola was plain stupid to ask if Cindy go
pregnant after school or while she was in school.
“Who is responsible, have you told him about it?” Mrs Ambrose asked, even
though she knew who the person is likely to be. But, she is afraid to admit,
and therefore hoped that her daughter has another lover aside the ‘criminal’
inside the police net.
“Ojo is responsible. And he knew about it…” Lola hadn’t completed the
statement when a stinging slap hit her accross the face.
“That bastard? That criminal will in no way father my unborn grandchild.”
Mrs Ambrose said angrily prompting Lola to quickly go down on her knees.
“Mummy, please. Don’t do this to me. I need your support now than ever…”
Mrs Ambrose angrily cuts in. “Shut up you fool. What were you thinking when
you opened your legs for that criminal, now you need my help and support.
You must be joking.”
Lola drew nearer to her mother as she held her leg.
“Mummy, I love him so much and I can’t imagine my life without him….”
Her mother cuts in angrily. “If you are in love, why not wait till marriage
before you get pregnant?”
“No mum, I know dad will never allow me to marry him. I did what I thought
would soften his heart.” Lola sobbed.
“You are mistaken, because with this pregnancy, your father still won’t allow
you to marry him. You know how your father is. And there is absolutely
nothing I can do.” Lola felt her hope crashing, because the only person she
thought could help her is backing out even before it started.
“But, there is a way.” Lola beamed as she heard this. “How many months is
it?”
“Less than a month.” She replied.
“Good! We will hide it. Your final exam is in a weeks time. By the time you
are two months gone, you would have finished your exam and maybe your
project.” She explained.
“And what happens next?” Lola asked.
“You leave town and in your own way you can break the news to your father
from wherever you are, that way, he won’t be able to vent his anger on you
as he would have loved to.” Mrs Ambrose explained. “That’s the only thing I
can think of for now. But, don’t worry, God will lead us aright.” With this, she
made for the door. “And when are you starting your ANC?” without waiting
for her reply, she walked out.

--tbc...
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11

Detective Farouk drove his white Toyota Camry to a halt outside Late
Barrister Joe’s apartment with two junior police officers with his in the car.
“Are we gonna drive in?” One of the two assistants beside Farouk asked.
“No.” Farouk replied as he released himself of the seatbelt and gathered a
couple of equipements he would be needing. “You set?” He asked.
“Yes sir.” The two officers chorused.
Without another word, Farouk walked up to the locked gate with the two
officers and with a key a got from the inspector in charge of the case, he
unlocked the gate and they filed in.
“You stay here and keep an eye outside. You come with me.” He instructed at
he made for the front door which he opened effortlessly.
Fourty five minutes later, after a thorough search of ever nooks and crannies
of the house, Farouk was very tired and spent, his ringing phone brought him
back to life.
“Detective Farouk here.” He said on picking up. “Right away sir.” He added
moments later.
“What’s the matter?” The junior colleague searching with him asked.
“You have to report to the station.” Farouk replied.
“But why?” The officer asked. But just as Farouk made to explain the reason
behind the new development, he could hear loud voices from outside the
house the house. Precisely at the gate.
I beckoned on my patner who followed me out of the house to the frontgate
where a man in his mide thirties was arguing withthe second officer.
“What’s going on here?” Farouk asked bringing calm to both parties.
“My name is Alfa Afeez.” The man introduced himself to Farouk who shook
hands with his warmly.
“Farouk.” He introduced himself too.
“I live down the street and as a landlord in this community, I have a right
under the law to question anymovement that I deemed suspicious. I hope you
know that?” the man began.
“Very well sir.” Farouk replied.
“The owner of this house, Barrister Joe was a very good man during his
lifetime and his untimely death really shook this community. The police have
placed his house under lock, only for me to see this man here and I
questioned him, but he seems to be hiding something, hence the reason he
threatened to go violent if i didn’t stop questioning him.” The man explained.
Farouk’s phone vibrated. He knew he was running out of time, and since he
was done with the real issue which broughtt him to the house, standing to
settle quarrels is another waste of time.
“Am very sorry for his behaviour. I am Detective Farouk. We are policemen
and are working tirelessly on getting Barrister Joe’s killer to book.”
“God help you.” The man prayed.
“Thank you.” Farouk replied shaking hands with him once again.
Five minutes later, he backed his car and drove out of the estate.
Alfa Afeez stood a little distance away from the house the moment he
realised what just happened. He held his communication device agains his
ears and spoke;
“Target indentified and confirmed.” He said. “Send his bio to my PDA.” He
added with a wicked smile.

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