Life's Symphony 16
'He is not powerful. He who can beat
everybody up. The most powerful is he who maintains his patience in the face of
the severest provocation.' Hadeeth.
To say Ola was sad is an understatement. He was battered and his ego was
bruised. He could not walk the streets without fearing he is being mocked. When
he sees two people talking or laughing, he immediately assumes he was the
subject of their discussion. He felt used and rejected. He had been spent and
dumped.
Thence, his self esteem went to its all time low as he now saw himself as
unworthy of any girl. If he is attracted to any girl, his mind tells him that
she will reject and slap your face. To him, all girls are face slappers.
His uncles did little to ease his woes as they continued their tales of
adventure and misadventure to his chagrin. They continued their philandering
acts telling him that he had learnt the hard way and that with time, when his
right girl comes along, he will go for her.
Tope on her part still saw Ola on the street. But she was not remorseful for
what she did. She carried on as if nothing had ever happened between them. Her
results came out and she cleared all the subjects. Not even a word of thanks crossed
her lips to her benefactor. What a bitter lesson Ola was taught!
Ola picked himself up quickly and faced his work. He avoided what could bring
about any meeting between him and Tope. Whenever they meet accidentally, he
does as if he had never met her. He channeled all his fury and energy into his
study of his admission hindrance, Mathematics.
By the following year, he felt he had studied enough and made a go at the exams
once again. This time he did the two GCE exams, WAEC and NECO. When the results
came out, there was a little difference in them. He had passed Maths in the two
of them. In one, he had the last credit, in the other, he had C5. He was
ecstatic. He felt on top of the world and kept muttering his thanks to his
Creator, Who had made him smile at the end.
By this time, things were a little bit easier for his mother. She had gotten a
job that pays manageably well. Hence, it was time for him to head back to the
classroom.
By his twentieth birthday, Ola had gotten admitted into the Tai Solarin
University of Education, Ijebu Ode, to study Mass Communication. By that age
too, he was given his first mobile phone. He believed his aunt that said that
it cannot get worse; rather it can only get better.
His mum, coupled with his own savings over the years, got him settled in school
earnestly. He brought with him to school his resolve of yesteryears, 'no
girlfriend, only studies, all girls are slappers'. That was what rang in his
brain as he made his way to class everyday.
His schedule was what could be called 'the square schedule'. He leaves home to
class, class to the mosque, mosque to the library, library back home. He had
little time for extra curricular activities.
In class, he was as brilliant as ever. With both lecturers and students knowing
him, though, unintentionally, just like the proverbial peacock with no hiding
place. Due to his lackadaisical attitude, he had poor wardrobe sense, or say
fashion or dress sense. He wears anything and any how to school. Yet, some
girls in his class are attracted to him. They just loved his way of life. He
was free with the guys and they discovered that he was a talkative. He argued
and bantered with them. But it seems he was shying away from the girls. Other
than those with who he attends mosque programmes, he paid no attention to any
girl.
One of such girls who like him was Ronke. She had always looked at him as he
explains things to the guys and those hijab sisters in the class. She knew the
guy was raw and untapped. In her eighteen years on earth, she had not seen any
guy display such raw power, finesse and intelligence as Ola possessed. She knew
he needs only a little refining and whoosh he will be a lover boy.
She wasn't the only one nursing this ambition, twenty one year old Labake is
ready to spend her money and time to get this handsome guy's attention. To her,
he needs a change of wardrobe and a little cash in pocket because she had
caught him on two occasions trekking the thirty minutes distance between the
school campus and Ijebu Ode town. She must have this guy close to her. She
needs him. He is independent. He is shy and timid but what baffles her was that
he was free with guys and those ladies that cover their heads. What did he see
in them? She wondered. Maybe because they were Muslims like him. Anyways, she
needs him too because she did not come to TASUED to count ceilings. She came
there to get the grades and whatever lawful path that will help her achieve it,
she is ready to tread.
Thus, two ladies lie in wait for him. Ola was oblivious of them. He continued
his life as had been written for him...
Life's Symphony 17
'Destiny cannot be altered, delayed
or changed.' Anonymous.
His first year at the university was quite uneventful. He lived his life the
square way. He had no friend except his neighbours in Ijebu Ode town. He minded
his business and never interfered in anybody's business. His first year
performance was nothing but stellar. He stood at four point four. To him, it
was too low; he needed to hike his efforts. He went on break a little
satisfied.
The second year of his stay in TASUED began soon after the break. He maintained
his former stance and mode of operation. Due to financial constraints, he had
to take on a room mate at the start of the year. His room mate was a guy from
his class who he had tested and trusted. They had a similar view about the
female folks. Ola lived all through his
remaining years with his best friend and roommate, Daniel.
Ola and Daniel became five and six. They were seen together everywhere. They
were inseparable brothers.
His resolve and abstinence went on for quite a while till one day when he made
a move that brought on him what he had been running from. It was his second
year second semester. On a bright
Tuesday morning, the 200 level students of the College of Social and Management
Sciences (COSMAS) [TASUED uses the collegial system of discipline
identification and not the normal faculty used by some schools.] were having a
general course, EDU 221 (Curriculum Studies), the lecturer was nowhere to be
found.
Ola had walked into the hall in his usual manner, greeting the few guys he had
a rapport with and ignoring the ladies and answering the few who said 'Good
Morning' with a smile like one who is going for a beauty pageant. He had seated
himself for close to five minutes when the noisy class got him pissed off. He
thought of how best to calm them down and found only one worth executing.
Damn it! He hadn't been a teacher for four years for nothing. He stood up from
his seat and walked to the podium. He picked up the board marker, cleared his
voice and proceeded on his mission.
''Good Morning fellow students. I am sorry for intruding your private
businesses. I just thought it would be worthwhile to spend the time usefully
while waiting for Mr Ademola. I would be discussing the concept of curriculum
with us. I don't know much about it. But I will try.'' he paused for effect as
he heard murmurs from his audience.
''Okay, I am sorry. Lemme leave. It seems I am disturbing some people.'' he
said as he made to leave the class frontage.
''No! No! Go on.'' Majority of the class roared.
That was the leverage he needed as he delved into the topic tearing it apart
like he was the course lecturer. He went on for close to forty five minutes
before the lecturer arrived. Mr Ademola himself was stunned at the way he met
the class. A graveyard was not as quiet as that class that day. This boy must be
a genius. He thought to himself.
On seeing the course lecturer, he rounded off his tutorials and said,
''Curriculum planning and development is the bedrock of any country's
educational system as it determines the effectiveness
or otherwise of the country's willingness to develop in all ramifications. We
shall continue our discussions some other time as our lecturer is very much
around. Thank you.'' The class roared with applause for the guy who had handled
a course better than their lecturer. Mr. Ademola held his last statement in his
head. It was the first question of their
exams that year and it was compulsory.
Ola had unknowingly become a star. Many tongues were sent wagging about that
singular feat he performed. His coursemates held onto the bragging right in the
whole college. The other departments were in concord with them. They all said
he had no rival.
Many students want to contact him. They needed his help in that course. It had
been sounding like greek to them until he broke it into pieces. They wanted
more.
After the class, he sneaked out of the class before he was noticed. But, he had
not gone far when they thronged him asking for his numbers. They were mostly
girls.
The guys had no problem with him because he was free with them. Spot him and
stop him anywhere, as far as you are a guy, ask any question and you are sure
to get it answered on the spot. So, only a handful of guys asked for his
digits. The girls were the treasure seekers. He gave them, albeit reluctantly.
When they got home, Daniel told him that he had unleashed the dragon. He had
just opened a hornet of bees. And he should expect to get seriously burnt and
stung. Ola laughed. He won't be stung, burnt, bitten or scratched again except
he wanted it....
Life's Symphony 18
'... They uprooted our tree
And planted in its place
A Cathedral of doom.'
Kofi Awoonor...
Ola knew just how to handle the crowd of girls that were about to stampede him.
He would use them to his advantage. He just
discovered that the key to his rise in G. P is to teach people what he knows.
It brings out new ideas and perspectives to the courses and topics to him.
Whatever they want, as far as it is related to education, they are welcome.
Labake sat in her room luxuriously furnished room. She looks downcast. Ola had
not been picking his calls and she needed to talk to him about the EDU221
assignment. The cunny Mr. Ademola had asked them to submit a typed two paged
lesson note in their subject area. She needed his help and she did not want to
approach him in the class tomorrow. He will be too busy. And lately, a lot of
girls in the class seem to be at war to get his attention, even those in other
departments. She needed to strike while the iron was hot. She had to talk to
him today. An idea occurred to her. She called Daniel. He picked at the third
ring.
''Hello,'' she heard him say. There was music in the background and she
wondered if they were at home. She knew anywhere Daniel was, Ola was bound to
be there.
''This Daniel guy sef, since he and Ola had become room mates, Ola's status don
move up small. At least, he no dey trek go town again. Make I talk jare.'' She
thought to herself as his voice hit her ears. She was using her earpiece.
''Hello o,'' Daniel said again wondering who was calling him and refusing to
talk.
''Hello, good evening. I am Labake. A course mate of yours.'' She explained.
''Okay Labake. How can I do you for?'' he joked as was his nature.
''I want to ask you about Ola's
whereabout, he seem not to be picking his calls.'' she replied ignoring his
joke.
''Ah! That boy, he isn't around. O ti jade (he has gone out). He had a
programme in his mosque. Maybe that's why he isn't picking his call.'' Daniel
explained.
Labake was exasperated. How can
someone be so religious? Ah! That boy too dull o!
''Ok. Thank you. I will call back later. Just tell him I called.'' She
concluded.
''Ok. I won't tell him cos he will see your missed calls. Bye.'' he responded
in his usual style.
Labake thought that Daniel was kind of rude. But it wasn't his fault. She had
no business with him. She decided to call him later in the night.
Ronke had done her assignment. She had surfed the web and had downloaded the
lesson note and did little adjustments to it. But she wanted to create a
lasting impression in the mind of Ola. Since that Daniel of a guy had entered
his life, he had almost totally ignored girls. That stunt he pulled in class
the other day had proven that Ola is just too good. She needed to be around
him.
So she brought out her phone and typed a message.
'Hi
Ola, you don't know me yet, but you will soon. I am your coursemate and a fan
of yours. I will need your help in some things. It won't be unrewarded. I am
sorry if I sound somehow. I will be spotting a red top on a blue jean tomorrow.
Goodnite and have a sweet nite rest.''
Ola was in the mosque when both the calls and text came in. After the prayers,
he read the text and smiled. He had expected such and was prepared. They would
have to do it on his terms and conditions. So help him God. He thought and
crossed his heart.
When he got home, he met Daniel at home playing the old school songs they both
loved. The particular one that was playing was King Sunny Ade:
'Esu biribiri pebo mi o,
Iwaju loloko n wa mi lo
Eyin ko loloko n wa mi lo
Mi o mo o...'
He sang along to it as he entered his room to find his brother, Daniel, on the
bed.
''Ol boy, come see message o.'' he said as he stepped into the room.
''Where the message now?'' Daniel asked rising from the bed getting interested.
Ola showed him the message and they both tried guessing. They were poor in
their guess work as they both realised that they knew little about the girls in
their class.
They joked and chatted for a while before eating and going for their usual night
stroll.
As they were coming back, Labake's call came in again...
Life's Symphony 19
''...When it faces you all alone,
make your decision...'' Yoruba proverb.
The two friends were walking home from their usual night stroll. It had become
their habit that after eating, they take the walk. It was during such walks
that serious talks and decision making ideas came to them. Whenever they were
seated, they don't have useful discussions. Hence, the walk was necessary.
Ola's phone rang. The number displayed was not a number with an identity. 'Who
is this that won't lemme enjoy my peace jare?' he thought as he whipped out his
phone from his pocket.
''Ol boy, na dat number wey give me ten missed calls the time wey I go mosque
o!'' he said to his friend who pretended not to know the caller's identity.
''Pick am make we hear wetin she wan talk now.'' he said. They both knew
instinctively that the caller was a female.
''Hello oo. E kaale o. (good evening)'' Ola uttered into the phone.
''Hello. Am I speaking with Ola?'' the caller asked.
''Yes o. And may I know who I am talking to?'' Ola replied calmly.
''Erm... I am Labake. A coursemate of yours.'' the caller offered.
''Okay, sister Labake. How may I be of help? I know this is not a courtesy
call.'' he said matter of factly.
Labake was a little bit ruffled. She had not expected him to throw her off
balance like that. The guy knows what she wants.
''I think I might need your help on an assignment. Ola.'' she quipped.
Ola smiled knowingly. Then he said,
''I know that. You women always do that. When you need help is when you come
around. Okay, which of the assignments if I may ask?''
''The EDU221 assignment. I want you to help me check what I did if it's correct
and make corrections where necessary.'' She had changed her statement on
hearing the tough words Ola had said. She had wanted to tell him to help her do
it.
''If it's that, no problem. You said we are coursemates, right?''
''Yes, we are.''
''Okay. Bring it to the class tomorrow and let's see what can be done. But
please, if you haven't written anything, don't bother coming at all cos I don't
write assignments for ladies. I can only help if you have written something.
Are we clear?'' he queried.
''Yes. Thank you and good night.''
''Goodnight.'' he said as he pressed the red button on his phone.
Labake dropped the phone and set about writing. She had to write something. It
seems the guy will be a little tough, he is kind of poor but he has a taste.
She heaved a huge sigh and started the browser of her phone. She had to write,
else, no show!
Ola on his part laughed after the call. His friend too joined him in laughing.
They were laughing at the girls who had earlier called before Labake. They were
the ones who made Ola decide never to write assignments for any girl. They had
offered him sums of money for him to do their assignments for them. Some even
offered to pay in 'kindness' for his services. Ola had rejected them all!
''Ol boy, what do these girls take me for? A hungry and poverty stricken gut?
Or a woman wrapper? So they think I will write assignments for them with my own
brain and they will get marks while they sit at home, all because of money? They
had better think twice. I may be poor, but I am contented with where God has
placed me. If they think I am a cash freak or a pussycat freak, then they have
another thing coming. If they can't use their brains and request help to brush
it up, then they should go to other guys. Afterall, no be only me know book
now.'' he vented to Daniel.
''I had thought you would accept their offer. I would have asked if that was
how hungry you are. Ol boy, leave them. You have told them, it's either on your
terms or nothing else. They think our lecturers are fools. How will you write
for ten people with your own, making eleven. The same style and the lecturer
won't know? And it's you they will rat out when kasala burst. If they can't
bring what they have written, they should just go elsewhere. All of them have
no use for their brains. Na only to do fashion upon nothing. Ol boy, make we go
house jor. Sleep dey wire me.'' Daniel whinned.
With that the two friends entered their room from the front of the house where
they had been sitting after their stroll. It was a long night with one or two
calls which punctuated their sleep. Trust them, they picked none of them
because they cherish their sleep.
The next day in school, Ola had a busy day as he hopped from hall to hall to
receive his lectures. After all lectures, his customers begin to appear. He
attended to them one after the other till it was Labake's turn. She introduced
herself and presented what she had written. Ola read it, shook his head, said
nothing and made the corrections. He discharged her and she thanked him
profusely as the others had done. She was just too happy.
As he was set to leave the class, a young lady in a red top and blue jeans
stood in front of him seeking his audience...
Life's Symphony 20
'...Which of the favour of your Lord
will you deny?...' Qur'an.
Ola looked well at the figure standing before him. It did not click well. He
searched well and remembered the text he had read last night. He recovered well
from his shock. And said,
''Have a seat.''
The lady sat down. She brought out her note. Ola scrutinised it and did as he
had done to every other
ones before her. He noticed that they had all copied from the internet without
proper referencing. He corrected her and lectured her a little on internet
usage for assignment purposes.
That done, he handed the note back to her. Business done, Ronke wanted a little
pleasure.
''I know you saw my text yesterday. But you weren't surprised to see me. Were
you, Ola?'' she asked.
Ola knew her kind. He decided to play it cooly. She won't get what she wanted
because his resolve is strong.
''I wasn't surprised to see you. Truth be told, I had even forgotten about your
text.'' he replied sarcastically.
Ronke was shocked, but she won't relent. She wanted him all to herself.
''Sorry then. Erm.. Don't mind my manners, I am Ronke. Ronke Jaiyesimi.''
''Not to worry, Ronke. Nice to know you.'' he said with a serious tone.
''Ola, mind if I request that we become friends?'' she inquired praying he
answered in the affirmative.
'What's wrong with this girl?' Ola thought.
''We are friends already. Or aren't we?'' Ola returned.
''We are, Ola. And erm... I have a little gift for you. I don't know if you
will like it. But please, don't reject it. You had said we are friends and
friends accept gift from each other. Don't they?''
''Yes, they do.'' Ola replied somehow confused.
Whatever it is, she will only get what the others were getting. He had no time
for any relationship.
She brought out the wrapped gift from her bag. Ola collected it from her and
thanked her. But as was his policy since his admission into the University, he
opened it right in front of her. This surprised Ronke. She had thought he would
take it home before opening it, thereby giving her time to launch another
assault through phone. The gift was two beautiful Tee Shirts. Since he had
opened it, she asked if he liked them, and he replied,
''Even if I don't like them, they are gifts and I won't tell you I don't like
them. Thanks a lot Ronke.''
He turned to go, called his friend after dropping the shirts in his bag, and
they headed home. Ronke watched him till she could see him no more. The guy was
an enigma, he is just tough and she likes tough guys.
That was the beginning of Ola's
friendship with the female folks. They thronged him for help but he never
compromised his initial stance. Nothing more than platonic friendship existed
among them. The ladies who were mischievous went to town that they were his
official girlfriends and even fought themselves over him. Anytime he heard such
news, he would laugh with all his heart.
His room was a Mecca for all types of feet because in his third and final
years, he had taken up the tutorship of the junior levels. Hence, he had little
or no rest during the day. His day starts at seven after his morning prayers
and ends anytime before midnight when they would release him to have a night
rest
that would still be disturbed with calls he never picked.
As he does these, gifts upon gifts he received for his efforts because he never
demanded anything from anybody. All gifts he accepts including cash. He
rejected all gifts that came in 'kind'.
Their final exams came and went. Ola and Daniel had studied their hearts out in
the midst of frequent tutorials for all levels in almost all courses. They read
and read, as
they battled their final projects. Yet, assignments never ceased. It was a
tough war they waged in their final months in TASUED.
Their final results were collated while they waited. They roamed the offices of
their lecturers correcting mistakes in their previous results and helping out
others where necessary.
They were at home relaxing on a sunny saturday afternoon, when one of their
favourite lecturers called Daniel that their final results were out. He had
said,
''Daniel, your total G. P. A is 4.38. You have made a strong two one. Is Ola
there?''
''He is sleeping sir.'' Daniel had lied. Ola was listening.
''Okay, when he wakes up tell him that he made a total G. P. A of 4.63. That is
a first class. The first of its kind in our department.''
''Thank you sir.'' said the elated Daniel.
''Congratulations boys, I am proud of you two. Have a nice weekend.''
Daniel had known his friend will make it. He was very happy for him. If he had
not been Ola's friend, he knew he couldn't have made such a result. He thanked
God for using Ola to make his dream of a Second Class Upper come true.
They both went for the compulsory National Service. Through 'the hand of God,
leg of man', which Daniel's parents used, they were posted to the Centre of Excellence....
Lagos State....for their one year Youth Service.....
Life's Symphony 21
'And if We had not held you firm,
you would have inclined towards them.' Qur'an.
Ola packed his bag and baggage and said goodbye to the town of Ijebu Ode. The
mini city that had been his home for the last for years. The town where he had
learnt and achieved a lot. He had
previously sent most of his belongings to his mother's place. He had with him
only those he would need at the NYSC orientation camp in Iyana Ipaja, Lagos
State.
Ola arrived home into the waiting and welcoming hands of his uncles and aunts.
He had sorely missed them just as they had missed him. He rested a bit before
devouring a sumptuous plate of Amala and Ewedu soup with a big chunk of beef.
He stepped it down with a 1litre pack of Fumman Orange juice. Then he went for
his nightly ritual, his stroll. He walked the length of the street and missed
his friend. He called Daniel and they talked about the need for early arrival
at the camp the following day. He also called his mother and a few other
friends of interest to him. He began the long stroll back home.
As he approached his house, he saw a familiar figure in the darkness. He
strained his eyes to identify the figure and as his eyes adjusted to the
darkness, he recognised the person. It was Tope. She was talking with another
girl who Ola did not know. He approached them and
''Good evening Tope.'' he greeted.
They both looked up to see the person who had just walked in on them. Tope
recognised him and Ola could see the shock registered on her face. She
recovered quickly.
''Good evening brother Ola.'' she replied curtsying.
Ola was stunned. Were his ears playing pranks on him? Tope had called him 'Brother
Ola'. He couldn't believe it as five year old memories were flooding his brain.
''How is everything and you?'' he asked still trying to smart up from the
shock.
''Everything is fine, sir. I have missed you a lot. Since you left for school,
I had written JAMB twice and each time I failed. Then I knew that if you had
been around, it would have been different. But my mum got a special centre for
me this year and guess what, brother Ola.'' Ola couldn't guess as he was still
finding it hard to register the transformation in Tope to warrant her change of
attitude towards him. Her voice brought him out of his reverie.
''I passed it and the post UME. Now, I am an undergraduate of your school and I
will be studying Mass Communication, your course!'' she said gleefully. Ola was
happy for her. At least she had taught him well.
''Make sure you see me very early tomorrow morning before I leave for camp. I
will give you some names and numbers of some people in school. They will help
you. Just tell them you are my sister. Congratulations Tope. And be a good girl
on campus.'' he said as he turned to go. Tope pulled him back and said
''Congrats too on your first class sir. I hope to emulate you. You are a model
to many of us around here. And you can bet I will be gentle on campus. Good
night sir and have fun in camp.'' She then gave him a full kiss on his lips.
His first kiss ever! He left for home bashfully. Talk of success having many
fathers!
The Lagos State NYSC Orientation camp at Iyana Ipaja was a beehive of
activities that Monday morning as graduates from all over the country came to
answer the call of their fatherland. Ola got out of the taxi cab that brought
him there. His aunt had insisted on a cab against the hustle of the Danfo. He
had to get there early to register and do things before the rush. He paid the
driver and got his things out of the cab. Then he called Daniel who was already
in the camp and together, they went through the registration formalities. In
less than four hours of their arrival, they were through with it and were
taking their usual stroll around. They were now officially Corpers.
At the orientation camp, things happened, but not for both of them. They had no
time for the ladies except a few who knew them from school. Though they were in
different platoons, they never left each other's sight. They both worked at the
Orientation Broadcasting Service (OBS). They never partook in the parades, when
it was time for the parade rehearsals; they were either in the hostel or in the
OBS office. The Mammy market seriously missed them. But the mosque and chapel
on camp never missed them for a day. They also played football for their
platoons. Both of them met in the final with Ola scoring the winning goal. They
had fun in their own way.
Three weeks went swiftly and they were posted to their Places of Primary
Assignment. Daniel was posted to an advertising agency, Florid Communications
Ltd in Ikeja, while Ola was posted to a Public Relations outfit, Pellarry
Communications Nigeria Ltd, on the Lagos Island. They both lived in Oyingbo.
They both worked assiduously for their firms and after their service, they were
both retained with a handsome pay packet to take home after tax.
For Ola and his family, things were getting better. How better can it get?...
Life's Symphony 22
'The height of success is not wealth
but a sense of personal fulfilment.' Anonymous.
Ola grew in leaps and bounds. He grew academically, professionally, financially
and even spiritually. By his twenty eighth birthday, he had gotten a Masters
degree certificate in Communication and Language Arts from the University of
Ibadan, he was a member of eight professional bodies, he had been awarded the
best staff of the year in his organisation and he had become a prized asset
wanted by every communication outfit in the country. His current employers
never joked with his welfare, hence making him one of the highest paid workers
in the communication sector.
He did not eat with all his fingers too. His family were the most affected by
his rise on the success ladder. His parents, particularly, and siblings were
moved to a more befitting accommodation and his siblings' education became his
duty. His extended family members also were not left out as they also received
from him what they needed as at when due.
He had moved from Oyingbo to a three bedroom flat on the Island just as his
friend had also moved to his own flat in the Ikeja axis.
His future was also of concern to him. He had invested heavily in all kinds of
shares, stocks and bonds. He also had two pieces of land in his hometown,
Sagamu.
As fulfilled as it may seem he was, Ola's life had an empty vacuum that needed
to be filled. He felt empty and worthless anytime he left work and had to drive
home to meet it just the way he had left it in the morning. He needed a wife.
Deep in the recesses of his heart, he still nursed the hope of finding his
teenage sweetheart, Adetutu. He set machineries in motion to find her. He went
to their family house at Ayegbami where he was
directed to her parents' new abode in the G. R. A quarters in Sabo, Sagamu. He
went there and met with her mother who told him the heart shattering news that
Tutu had gotten married just a year before. Co incidentally, she lived on the
Lagos Island. He thanked her profusely and set about confirming the news
himself.
At work the following day, he called her.
''Hello, who is this o?'' her voice on the phone brought back nostalgic
memories.
''Hello. This is Adeona Olaoluwa. Am I talking to Adetutu Jejeloye?''
''Ah! Ola! So it's you. It's been a long time o. You are speaking with Mrs.
Tutu Adeola o. How have you been? Where are you?'' Tutu bombarded him with
questions. But as the reality dawned on him that he had lost her for good,
sorrowful tears welled up in his eyes.
''What if I say we should meet at your place this weekend? Am I welcome?'' Ola
asked hoping that it would be a lie.
''No problem. I will like to see your face again after how many years. It's
almost thirteen years o. We have a lot to talk about.'' she said. He already
had the address but she still gave him. And with a
promise that they would see, he ended the call.
His eyes were red from unshed tears as he reminisced the meeting and parting of
the two of them. He could not but shed tears of regret. He should have kept in
touch with her. He had gone back too late. What a mistake he had done by losing
her!
Saturday came, so was the meeting between two long lost friends or say lovers.
It was not too difficult locating her house, he knew his way around the Island.
The house was a four storeyed affair and each storey was a four bedroom flat.
On seeing the house, he knew that she had married well. Tutu and her husband
lived on the second floor.
Her husband was at home and he was the one who opened the door for Ola. It was
an emotional reunion as both Ola and Tutu both cried on seeing each other.
Tutu's tears were that of happiness at finding a lost friend, Ola's were that
of sadness and joy because Tutu was pregnant. What more confirmation did he
need that she was married?
After the introductions by Tutu, her husband left the two friends to catch up
on each other and Ola never failed to express his regret at losing her. She
said that it wasn't his fault but that it was destiny that dealt them both a
cruel blow. She encouraged him to move on and get over her because she would
love to see his children and talk to his wife. Ola promised to pick himself up
but admitted that it would not be easy because Tutu's memories will forever
live with him. They talked about their journeys over the years and were happy
for each other for the level of their success.
Ola left later in the day partially happy that he had at last found her but
highly sad that he had lost her to another man.
Thus he began his search for his missing rib. He wasn't to search for long
because time and chance which leads to the actualisation of destiny led him to
her.
He was in his office one day attending to some files when Funmi walked in...
Life's Symphony 23
'Verily, along with every hardship
is relief...' Qur'an.
Ola looked up from his table to behold a dark skinned, average heighted and
slender beauty in front of him. She was spotting a white shirt under the
trouser suit she wore. On her head was a white cap. He could not see her feet
but they were encased in black stilettos. She was graceful.
His secretary had a few minutes earlier called him that somebody from the M.
D's office was there to see him. As she entered the office, she had caught his
attention and he could not help staring at her.
''Please sit down. Miss...'' he said after almost a minute of looking at her.
He felt a little embarrassed.
''Funmilola Olaore.'' she said as she
helped herself to one of the comfy chairs in front of him.
''I was told you came from the M. D's office. Hope I don't have a query from
him?'' he said light naturedly.
''No sir. You have no query. I am his new secretary. He asked me to come and
see you in respect of the Abeokuta deal. He had been busy and will not be
coming to the office today.'' she stated. ''Okay. I am now at rest. He should
have called me and I would have gone to his house with the files and we would
finalise it there. But it's okay. I will brief you on the level of progress and
we can take it up from there. You are welcome to Pellary Communications.'' he
said with a chuckle.
''Thank you sir but I am not new here sir. I served at the head office and I
just requested to be transferred here after I had been retained.'' she said
with a smile.
''Wow! Thank God we have a beautiful face amongst us at last!'' he exclaimed
jokingly.
They set about the business of the day and in no time she had left his office
for hers.
All through the day, Ola could not stop fantasising about Funmi. He thought of
how perfect she looked with the right curves at the right places. Moreover, she
seems cool and intelligent enough for him.
As the weeks grew, his visit to the M. D's office, on the second floor of their
office complex, became his second work place. As the official and unofficial
visits increased, the familiarity between them grew. In no time, they had
become friends. Ola will drop her at home before going to his office.
Funmi was a twenty two year old lady who graduated in Secretarial
Administration from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. She was the third of
four children of Dr. and Mrs. Olaoye. They hailed from Abeokuta. She lived with
her
parents and younger brother on Freeman Street on the Lagos Island. The main
reason she had requested for transfer from the head office located on the ever
busy Allen Avenue area of Ikeja. Theirs was a Muslim family and her Muslim name
was Fateemah.
Ola grew in confidence as their friendship grew. He had learnt the basic things
he needed to know about her. He felt he needed to take her away from their
Freeman abode into his own house. Everyday, he was more convinced he needed her
to become his wife.
Funmi had seen the rough side of life when it comes to relationships. In her
twenty two years on earth, she had been with three different guys who had
broken her heart after she had been utterly committed body and soul to the well
being of the relationship. The last one with Idrees had been the worst as he
had double dated all along only to tell her that he was sorry after a one and
half year stint with her. She had decided to go on a long break from relationships
to rest her heart but she found herself falling slowly and gradually in love
with Ola with the passing of each day. There was just something unique, raw and
untainted about the guy that she had found difficult to unearth. 'If he comes
with his proposal, I won't hold back. But God, let thy will be done. I can't
control my heart.' she had thought aloud one day when she was alone at home.
Ola was restless. He needed to say something to Funmi. The longer he waited,
the shorter his chances. He had not done such in a long while and as such he
had become rusty in the act. Then as he took his stroll one wet evening, an idea
occurred to him. From where it came, he knew not. When he got home, he brought
out his writing pad and penned her a poem about how he felt:
There are fishes and fishes
The shark feareth none
For he ruleth the waters...
There are cats and cats
The Lion feareth none
For he ruleth all cats...
There are faces
Many I have seen
Count I have lost of them
Yet yours stand out:
Bright as the daylight
Shining like the Spartan's armour
Peace it speaks
Happiness it brings to my heart.
How lucky would I
Have been if such a face
As yours were to be mine
To see at night
To see at dawn...
To forever have in my arms...
Ola typed and printed it. He enveloped it and dropped it on her table the
following Monday morning with a rose flower and a
note identifying the sender.
Funmi got to her
office to find an envelope and a rose flower on her table. She opened the
envelope to find a poem dedicated to her. How she loves poetry! After reading,
she knew who it was. She stood up and.....
Life's Symphony 24.
'Whatever you eat up through your
mouth, surely shall it pass out through your bum hole.' Anonymous.
How Ola knew she loved poems was beyond her. She loves anything in verse form
and for years, she had been a collector of all forms of poetry. Foreign, local,
ballads, old, modern, just name it. If it is poetry, then consult Fateemah
Oluwafunmilola Olaoye.
She had been trying for years to write poems herself but she had not been able
to come up with something concrete. So, when she saw the poem Ola had sent to
her, she headed straight to his office.
''Good morning, Ola.'' she greeted after the secretary had showed her in. Ola
was anxious. He thought the poem did not go down well with her. But as he saw
her grinning, he knew he had struck a cord in her heart. He relaxed.
''Good morning Funmi. How was your weekend? To what do I owe this early morning
visit?'' he feigned innocence.
''Did you write this?'' she asked waving the typed matter in front of him. Ola
collected it and looked it through as Funmi studied the expression of happiness
on his face. He looked up and said,
''Don't you like it? If you don't like it, just tear it up. I just felt I
should let you know how I feel about you. You have successfully captivated me
and....in short I think I am in love with you, Funmi.'' he said his face
contorted into a frown as he expectantly stood up from his chair and sat on his
table a few metres away from where she sat.
She looked at him. Her face filled with unshed tears of joy. She could feel his
true feelings in those words. She loved him.
''I don't like the poem. Ibrahim, I love it and its writer. I had come to know
that there is something I just feel anytime I am around you. There is this aura
of peace and tranquility you carry. Ola mi, I love you too.'' She got up and
gave him the tightest of hugs she could offer, and in a few while, they were
locked in the hottest of kisses.
Ola recovered faster than her and said,
''This is the greatest news of my life. Would you believe that you are my first
love and the first girl I
would ask out successfully?''
She doubted it and he went on to tell her about his life around girls, she was
perplexed. Such a handsome guy like him and still untainted! She had just
discovered a gold mine and nothing would let her leave him forever!
That was the beginning of their romance. It started as a rumour but the whole
office later knew it wasn't. It was for real. They were seen together anywhere
outside the office. Yet, they never joked with their work. Their parents were
soon in the know of things and Ola's mother was particularly glad and happy for
her son because she was beginning to get a little worried about his single and
searching status.
But there was one person who
threatened the well being of their love life. It was their M. D. Funmi's direct
boss. Mr. Bisi Adebesin was a thirty nine year old divorcee. He was a father of
two renowned for his philandering activities. He was an average heighted man,
fair
complexioned, a little bit on the plump side and boasted of a large potbelly.
He drinks anything in a bottle and chases anything in skirts. He had had his
way with lots of female folks within and
outside the organisation. He had been after Funmi since she was transferred to
his office as his secretary but had been highly unsuccessful. So, when he discovered
that there was an amorous affair bloosoming between Ola and Funmi, he decided
to hijack it and use it to his own advantage.
For long, her boss had been pestering her for an affair but Funmi had blatantly
refused. She had not the guts to tell her lover but she thought it was
something she could handle on her own till he started threatening to fire the
two of them. When this happened, she had to tell Ola.
Ola could not decipher why Mr. Adebesin would not let the love of his life have
her peace. He approached him one sunny afternoon in his office.
''Good afternoon sir,'' he greeted.
''Ah! Ola, my very good boy. How are you? Hope no problem? We don't have a
meeting today, do we?'' he queried rather surprised.
Ola went on to state the object of his visit and pleaded with him to leave the
lady alone for him. He agreed to leave her alone only if Ola would let him have
her for just a weekend to which Ola openly disagreed. Since, a compromise can't
be reached, he threatened to take both the woman's and Ola's source of
livelihood. Ola called his bluffs, stormed out of the office and slammed the
door in Mr. Adebesin's face. ''The battle line is drawn.'' He heard him growl
as he angrily walked to his office.
Back in his office, Ola thought and thought of a way out, he came up with none
until he left for home for the weekend...
Life's Symphony 25
'Never find fault in a mad man; he
who does is himself insane.'
YTC.... '010.
Ola was confused. His brain was as dry as a pikestaff. He was short of ideas.
He sat on the floor of his room wondering why his only source of happiness was
being threatened by this devil of a man called Mr. Adebesin. Throughout the
day, nothing passed into his stomach.
Funmi was reluctant to go with her boss to the luncheon. She had wanted to damn
the consequences and refuse totally but after the call to Ola, she felt a
little bit of relief as she prepared for the luncheon.
Mr Adebesin came to pick her up at the appointed time he was astonished as she
shone radiantly in the black dinner gown she wore. She draped a black shawl
over her shoulders, her hair was encased in a black skull cap and her feet
dwelled in a medium heeled black slip-ons. She had never been a fan of make ups;
hence, she was natural beauty at its peak.
''Shall we go?'' he said stretching his hand towards her. She ignored it and
walked towards the car.
At the luncheon, she lost interest in everything as her mind told her that her fiancé
would be in the worst of moods but here she was sitting uselessly in front of
these pot bellied old and young fools.
She declined everything she was offered saying she was alright.
At long last, it was over and by 6 p.m, she was at home. She called Ola and
asked if she could still come over, he said she needed to rest that he will
call her later. He was alright and at Daniel's. He would be back at the
programme they would have the following day.
Ola had called Daniel sounding embittered.
''Ol boy, how are you? This one you are sounding like you lost your wife. Is
everything okay? How is Funmi?'' Daniel had asked without waiting for a reply.
Ola explained what had happened during the week and Daniel had laughed at him.
He asked him to come over and they would work out a solution. Ola had changed
his clothes, jumped into his car and drove down to Ikeja.
There was a knock on the M. D's door early the following Monday morning.
''Yes, come in.'' Mr Adebesin had said.
The door opened and two people walked in hand in hand and dropped two envelopes
on his table. They sat down and watched the expression of surprise and gloom on
his face as he read the two letters.
''Are you trying to blackmail me?'' he asked in fear. The man replied
''It's not a blackmail sir, we have copies of those letters with us and we will
forward them to the head office before close of work today. We need to resign
our appointment but when we are asked why, we will tell them it's because you
had threatened us with the sack. Why? They will ask again and we will tell them
that it's because Funmi here refused to
sleep with you.''
Mr Adebesin was shocked. He was in a tight corner. These guys had won. If they
resign, they will get better offers elsewhere especially Ola. He was one of the
most sought after faces in the communication industry. Funmi too will get a job
anywhere. She is rightly qualified. But if they go, he (Mr Adebesin) will be
fired because his past will be unearthed.
No! He won't allow them ruin him, these smartasses!
''Okay, what do you two want?'' he asked.
''It's simple, just lemme be and leave us alone!'' Funmi spat at him.
''If that's all, it is granted. I wish you both a happy married life when the
time comes.'' He said resignedly as he watched the couple walk out of his
office grinning from ear to ear.
Funmi was at home on a Saturday
evening. The look she wore said that she wasn't in any way alright.
She had been calling Ola since the previous day and his number was switched
off. She had called Daniel who said he hadn't heard from him. Tutu had said the
same thing when contacted. She was restless.
She got into her car and drove towards the Third Mainland bridge. She is going
to his parents' place. She did not want to scare them with calls until she was
sure. Her parents were out of town. Only her youger brother was around.
As she approached the bridge, her phone rang. It was Daniel calling. She parked
well and picked the call.
''Hello Funmi,'' Daniel said calmly.
''Hello, have you heard from him?'' she screamed into the phone her heart
beating madly.
''Yes. He is at the Ikeja General Hospital. He was coming to my place when he
had a minor accident. But he is fine. Will you meet me there?''
Funmi never bothered to answer the question as she engaged the gears of her
Toyota RAV4 and sped towards the bridge and in the direction of the
hospital....
Life's Symphony: A Short Story 26.
(The Finale)
'Life is a comedy, life is a
tragedy: the more you live, the more you laugh and cry.' Anonymous.
The traffic was light and in less than thirty minutes she was at the hospital.
She called Daniel who was waiting for her at the gate. Daniel took her to the
ward where Ola was supposed to be. As they entered the ward, she saw Tutu who
was, by then, pregnant with her second child. Some other friends of theirs were
there as well. She was confused and the first words that found their way out of
her mouth were:
''Where is my Ola?''
From somewhere in the ward she knew not came:
''I am here Fateemah.''
He was the only one who called her that name. She turned towards the direction
of the voice to see him. As he approached her, she could see that nothing was
wrong with him and he was perfectly okay.
Then he knelt and brought out a tiny box containing a diamond ring, he
stretched it forward and said:
''Fateemah, please make me complete.''
She was ecstatic. Her anxiety had given way to pure happiness as tears of joy
flowed ceaselessly from her eyes. She looked at him and pulled him up.
''I will make you complete, my Ibrahim.''
He slipped the ring into her finger and the whole ward rang with claps and
shouts.
The Nikkah was a simple but grandeur affair. Both families were united to make
the day a lasting one in the memories of those who witnessed it. It was held at
the popular Sky Pavilion, Adebola House in Lagos.
The presiding Imam joined the couple according to the basic tenets of the
Islamic faith. They were thereafter lectured on the requirements of a lasting
home. Prayers were offered for them for the success of their marital journey which
they had just begun. The parents and well wishers were not left out as they
lend their blessings to the couple.
The reception took off almost immediately. Mr Adebesin was the chairman of the
day. He spoke glowingly of the couple. He described them as one united from
heaven that no man can put asunder. He also enjoined them to be patient with
each other as that was the key to a successful home.
There was plenty to eat and drink. A popular musician entertained the guests.
Lots of dignitaries in the Communication sector greeted the occasion.
The wedding over, the couple headed home. Ola was shy when he was left alone
with his wife at night. The first day, he slept like a log. The second day,
nothing. The third day, Funmi woke him up and asked if she had offended him. He
said 'No'. He did not just know how and what to do. Funmi smiled. She taught
him how to do it!
A year after Mr and Mrs Ola Adeona were joined together, Funmi woke up feeling
sick. It had been recurring for three days. She told Ola as he prepared to go
to the office. He had to see a client at Ibadan. He told her to see the family
doctor and he left for work.
At the doctor's, Funmi was told that she was three weeks gone. She was very
happy, she checked herself over and over again; she was going to be a mother.
She thanked the doctor and left.
She called her husband and broke the news to him. Ola was beyond himself with
joy. He had finished the discussion with the client and it had gone well. He
was coming back home to celebrate with his wife.
He got into his Honda CRV and headed to Lagos via the Lagos Ibadan Expressway.
He was thanking God for all that had been happening to him. His life had been a
fairy tale. Growing up had been tough, now he was succeessful and soon he will
become a father.
He slotted his Qur'an recitation disc into the player and as the recitation
filled the car. He was grateful. What else could he had said to God but 'Thank
You'.
Ola was too late. A small child had left his mother's hand and ran into the
busy road. That was along the Mowe axis of the road. Ola braked sharply and
swerved to avoid hitting the child. The child was unhurt and safe, but Ola was
not. He crashed into the road median. The airbag and seatbelt could not save
him. He gave up the ghost on the way to the hospital.
Eight months later, Funmi put to bed a bouncing baby boy. It was an exact
replica of his father. Seven days later, he was named Ibrahim Olaoluwa Adeona
(Junior).
Funmi never remarried. She spent the rest of her life mourning the gold mine
she had found and nursing Junior into the untainted man his father had been.
THE END.
P. S. All reactions to this story are welcome and would be entertained to help
improve the writer.
Thanks for the followership.
