Part one

……..the morning joy……..

     Isong remained motionless on his seat. The evening atmosphere was cold and quiet. In the open hall where other students were studying but to Isong, he was the only living being weeping silently whose attention had been far removed from the books in front of him.

Oh Lord! For how long would I suffer and wail to myself before you finally come to my rescue?

Must I and my family die in this wrotened condition? Haven’t we suffered enough? Answer me, Lord!

Isong spoke silently to himself as he questioned his God for his present predicament. He looked around watching other students studying; some chatting and laughing quietly as not to disturb the serious ones.

Take a look at me Isong implored as if have his creator presently in physical form.

When would you take away this thing, this thing called poverty from my life and that of my family? He looked at himself and could only imagine the look of an Ebola stricken patient whose death is imminent.

Isong who believed himself to be a victim of circumstance could not help but weep. 

His face has become pale as his eyes were swollen and as reddish as that of Dracula the monstrous creature that has lust for blood. He cleaned his face with the back of his hand and tried to control the uncontrollable flow of mucus advancing towards his mouth like an avalanche.

Isong had ceased questioning God in soliloquy and sitting silently in deep meditation as if going on his knee as Jabez and making supplication to the God of Israel to re-write his story and change his destiny. What a life!  What situation propelled him into remaining in a lecture at the Open Hall in the pretense of studying instead of the comfort of a student room, it only but his wretched life he said with all certitude. He looked terrifying as mosquitos were perching on every part of his body as if he were their niche. He tapped the back of his neck gently as he felt a sharp thin pain and killed a mosquito.

Isong hissed in disgust; Oh how he resented mosquitoes especially the male anopheles whose life-style were to feed on nectar and make unpleasant sounds in a human ear. He hated the very nature and life-style of all insects except the bees. He recalled the book he read about the bees, their habitat, mode of feeding, sociality and the rest of it. He smiled a little at what he read in that very book about the queen bee whose entire job was to sit around, eat and lay eggs.

Isong was startled as noise from the back of the hall jolted him back to reality. He noticed the emptiness of the open hall as every student had gone to save one who was packing his books kept on the desk.

Well, he said to himself, I’ll soon be alone as usual. That’s the kind of life I’ve started to live here on this campus, a life of discomfort and solitude.

Isong was soon left all alone in the open hall. Hot tears were emanating to flow down from his already reddish eyes; he rested his head on a desk behind him and casted his mind back to his limelight. Those days he won the student of the year in his SSI in limelight academy a record he kept till his final year in senior secondary school. He went deeper into his own thoughts, he recalled that very night his father died, a night of agony. His father Late Mr. Gabriel Azubuike suffered a terrible illness which eventually claimed his life despite all the hospitals he was taken to, the doctor’s efforts and money of spring view Bank, the branch at St. Louis Avenue, Satellite town Port-harcourt. After his death, his elder brother Mr. Okafor Azubike claimed ownership of his late brother’s properties. He seized their houses, cars and all the valuables he could get his hands on leaving his late brother’s family penniless, they were completely destitute..

Isong’s mother Lady Vivian as she was fondly called was forced out of her Late husband’s house with her four children.

Lady Vivian moved down to her village and there she settled with her children. It was hell for her and her children, from grace to grass, from riches to rags. She wept bitterly at every break of the day.

Isong started weeping afresh as he recalled those ugly days. He remembered his father’s last words before he joined his ancestors.

Late Mr. Gabriel Azubike called his first son and child Isong as he laid on his sickbed. 

Isong my dear son

Yeas father, Isong answered with tears in his eyes.

My dear son, you have to be strong, you are a man now and soon you will become the bread winner of this family.

“Father, why are you talking like this?”

Isong my son, I’ll leave you with their words before I am taken to the land beyond.

“Father, please, stop talking like this” are not going anywhere.

My son, I am a dedicated Christian and I brought you all up in the way of the Lord and I want you to remain like that. Do not compromise no matter what may come your way; promise me you will.

“Father, I promise, I will not compromise my faith”.

With those words, Mr. Gabriel Azubike blessed his son and gave up the ghost.

Isong cried and cried until there were no more tears in his eyes.

Isong a young boy of 21, fair complexion with an oval face; quite handsome with a broad nose and a pink lip having a little dark spot at the corner of his nose.

Isong was still in deep thought as fresh tears of regret began to flow down his cheeks like the four (4) rivers of Eden. He was oblivious of the two persons behind him looking for something in the hall; his head was still on the desk when one of the persons Jake by name tapped him on the back and brought him back to reality.

Guy, what’s wrong with you? Jake asked; “Wetin dey sup na?”

Raising his head which was already filled with a mixture of tears and sweat, Isong responded with a low but feeble voice; nothing is wrong.

You can’t be serious, the second guy Makuo retorted. How can you say nothing is wrong yet your face is covered in tears.

Makuo who was a bit farther from Isong came closer and held him

My guy I know something is wrong with you judging from your present state; please share it with us and who knows just like they say a problem shared is a problem half solved.

Isong who could no longer hold the tears, finally poured out his heart to them.

My name is Isong Azubike Gabriel from Umuoshi in Ukwuani Local Government Delta State. I am the first child of my parents. I lost my father three years ago; and have been suffering with my mother and siblings feeding from hand to mouth; something sustained by our mother who sells ‘akara’.

Isong wiped his tears with his backhand and continued.

I have no hope of paying my school fees, not to talk of where to lay my head or what to eat.

At that moment, Isong was no longer crying as he narrated his plight to the persons who listened with rapt attention.

I feel far you my brother Makuo interrupt I called you brother because that’s what you are. This is a coincidence.

Yes it is came Jake’s voice

I am Makuo Amaechi Slyvester, although friends call me ‘Sam-Wise’ but I’ll prefer you call me Makuo and here with me, my brother from a different mother is Otutu Efe Jacob fondly called ‘Jake’ by all and sundry. We are both from Ukwani but natives of Ami village; so we are all brothers.

Makuo was 23, dark complexioned, tall with broad shoulders and muscular chest which looked like that of a wrestler that could only be the popular, most admired John Cena; an ex-marine soldier who joined wrestling entertainment and coupled it with an acting career in Hollywood. He is the kind of wrestler who wrestles with passion and can never give in the surrender. He is popularly known for his ‘U can’t see me’ smack down which he uses to pin his opponents and win them thereafter.

Makuo who had a gap-tooth smiled of Isong and assured him all is well.

I will personally take care of your tuition fee and any other fees you are to pay on this campus.

Isong who was now amazed, shocked and perplexed could not believe what he just heard.

He cleaned his eyes with his fingers in order to get the words clearer.

What did you just say, Isong asked in bewilderment 

What you heard was exactly what I said you can also stay with us in our lodge, there room for everyone, Makuo added.

Isong fell to his knees and began to shower blessings upon blessings on Makuo who with the help of Jake tried to stop him from kneeling.

My God will bless you!

Both Makuo and Jake answered Amen!!!

He will provide for you!

Amen!!!

You shall never lack in this life 

Amen!!!

In Fact you are already blessed

Jake hugged him and assured him all is well so he has nothing to be wrong about.

Isong who was in thought despite his happiness and excitement asked how possible it would be.

Not to wrong, Makuo cleared his thoughts; my parents are well to do and I have rich and wealthy relatives all around the world he spoke with pride.

Makuo was the only child of Chief and Mrs Amaechi. His parents’ base is in Delta and his dad has companies scattered in different cities of the world. He is also a politician who served as minister of roads and works. His mother on the other hand is a business tycoon who imports goods from different parts of the world. She deals in clothes, shoes, handbags, Jewelries, cars etc.

Chief and Mrs Amaechi showered so much love on their son Makuo, gave him all he needed even those he didn’t need.

Mrs Agnes Awele Amaechi suffered childlessness for fifteen years before she had Makuo. Her husband’s people had threatened to throw her out on several occasions. She could still remember those days like it was yesterday; she remembered the insults, the embarrassments, the shame she received from her mother in-law on one of her visits some years ago.

Amaechi my son I have asked you severally to marry another woman; what you have here is a man in woman’s clothing.

Mother, my answer still remains No. I love my wife and besides it is God that gives children, God’s time is the best.

God’s time is the best! Is that it? You will keep saying God’s time is the best till you kick the bucket without leaving an offspring to carry your name.

Mama but I am not the giver of children Mrs Amaechi cut in with tears in her eyes.

Who asked for your opinion? You barren witch! Chief Amaechi’s mother retorted.

Haven’t you eaten up all the children in your womb? You think you’ve succeeded, ha? You have not, infact you can never. My God will not allow me to be put to shame.

Listen witch, Mama held Mrs Amaechi by the arm, hurting her.

Mrs Amaechi struggled to free herself from Mama’s grip

Mama continued, you must leave this house. In fact in my next visit I’ll be coming with a woman, a real woman who will bear children for my son.

Mama will you stop all this nonsense; Chief Amaechi yelled as he intervened and held his wife.

Mrs Amaechi wept uncontrollably in her husband’s arms.

I’ll go but will be back Mama assured them both, and by the time I return, I don’t want to see you in this house Mama warned and stormed out.

Chief Amaechi consoled his wife and reassured her that no woman would take her place.

Later that night Mrs. Agnes could not sleep, she kept rolling on the bed, subbing and questioning God for her present ordeal 

God, is this your own way of blessing me?

Why must I suffer childlessness?

What is my crime?

Are you still on your throne?

Why me?

Mrs. Agnes kept asking and sobbing; she could no longer see the essence of her living. She doesn’t know what to do anymore or where to go. She had practically visited every healing and deliverance center, made sacrifices, prayed and fasted all to no avail.

I have no reason to live anymore; why don’t you just take my life God, just take it so I can have peace.

Will you stop saying all that? Just stop! Honey, why are you treating yourself like how? 

Chief Amaechi set up after being awakened by his wife’s sobbing and rolling.

Am I complaining? I should even be the one pressuring you but am not please stop ok! Everything will be fine.

When will that be? Mrs. Amaechi asked is it until you meet another woman that everything will be fine?

God’s time is the best, her husband re-assured.

He held close and consoled her. Chief Amaechi was a very nice man who would do anything just to make his wife smile.

After fifteen years of waiting, God in his infinite mercy finally remembered the family of Chief and Mrs. Amaechi.

There was excitement and Jubilation in the family of Chief and Mrs Amaechi. They celebrated and welcomed the newest member of the Amaechi family. A party was thrown to commemorate the miracle. Crème de la crème were present from different parts of Nigeria, Africa and the world.

Mrs Amaechi’s Joy knew no bounds. She danced until her legs could no longer carry her.

My God has finally done it for me. He has answered my prayers and has shamed all my enemies; Mrs Amaechi spoke aloud to the hearing of everyone.

Now I have my confidence back- No one can take me away from my husband’s house. I have come to stay.

Chief and Mrs Amaechi brought up their child, their only child in grand style; they both pampered and lavished their son with presents. They got him what he needed and what he didn’t need. Makuo got the best. He went to the best school in the state, received all he asked for. He lacked nothing. As the only child, his parents, especially the mother, were the best security for her only child to avoid and prevent the hawk that may come down to take her only chick.

Isong rose from his chair and knelt before. Makuo then began thanking him afresh.

Makuo who felt it wasn’t necessary interrupted him and helped him up.

Its already late, Makuo said; lets go

Isong hurried went behind the open hall where he hid his belongings as Jake picked his books that were lying on the desk

Isong woke up late the following day feeling excited that he slept on a soft bed which he observed to be Mouka foam. For the first time in two weeks he had no trouble with mosquitoes or pains on his body. He began to observe the massive master bedroom he had slept in; he noticed some things he didn’t see last night as a result of tiredness.

Makuo and Jake left him to his observations as they both sat in the huge bed watching him.

The room was well decorated and furnished. The floors were made of fine marble from the door to the entrance of the toilet. The toilet floor was made of stone tiles; brown in color with some rough designs on it. A king size bed 16 inches that is 72” X 84” was perfectly placed in the middle of the room with the wardrobe made of wood in its interior but glass on its doors standing majestically at the left side of the bed. Directly opposite the bed is the 65 inches flat screen LG X B 5010 X television hanging in the wall, below it an LG woofer connected to various speakers and DVD player. Beside the woofer two beautiful flower vases with lovely sweet multi-flowers which extrude from the vase giving the room a wonderful view of a well furnished master bedroom.

Isong, who had never seen such a room let alone sleep in it before, stood gazing with both arms akimbo.

This is paradise! Chai! “I don enter small London,” Isong said, now facing his two new friends.

My guy this is nothing. Just relax, said Makuo standing and then walks to the refrigerator. He opened it and brought out a bottle of whisky cream with three glass cups. He walked back to the bed where Jake and Isong were already sitting and served them. Isong, who had never had such a drink , hesitated before drinking. He discovered the drink was sweet.

Wow, said Isong looking marveled. This is quite tasty. I was expecting it to be bitter. 

Isong sipped his drink and then looked up to his friends and now roommates.

Do you guys do this often? I mean do you always take this kind of drink every morning?

We take it anytime we so desire. Jake answered. And not only this brand but so many brands of alcohol.

What? Exclaimed Isong, you mean this is an alcoholic drink?

Why are you asking such a question Makuo asked him? You be Ju guy o! Jake said, tapping Isong on the back.

Isong, who had already taken three glasses of whisky, was feeling tipsy. He has a light brain and thus began closing and opening his eyes like the manner Nigeria NEPA usually gives and takes light.

The two friends who were not oblivious of his present state got up from the bed leaving Isong who had already begun to snore gently.

It was already 5:30pm when Isong woke from sleep. He discovered he was all alone in the room. He wore a three-quarter short and a red polo, went downstairs to check if he would see his two new friends who had become his benefactors. He searched the compound and even asked but he didn’t see them or get anything about their whereabouts. 

Where have they gone? Isong asked himself.

Not even a note to atleast let me know where they went. Person go cum dey wori nawa o!.

Isong went back upstairs to the room where he shaved with his two new friends. He decided to engage himself by watching a movie.

He selected a movie, helped himself with some chin-chin and a bottle of big cola.

While he was still watching his movie not up to an hour from the time he started, he heard the voice of both Makuo and Jake. He looked up to the wall clock, it was 7:00pm. He unlocked the door and awaited them.

Isong! Isong!! AIG!!! Isong heard his name from outside. It was Makuo calling out.

AIG ah ah “this guy still dey sleep?” Makuo asked Jake as he turned the doorknob.

Hey guys! Welcome Isong said smiling at Makuo who entered the room first followed by a slim beautiful young girl whom he later learnt was Makuo’s girlfriend. Jake entered immediately holding a different girl. 

AIG, “how far you?” Makuo asked as he was unbuttoning his shirt.

I just dey like dele; Isong replied but surprised.

O boy! ‘We think say you still dey sleep as you no answer when we call you.’ Jake spoke out still holding the girl he came in with.

Nothing o! I knew you guys were already at the door, Isong replied.

You guys didn’t give me any hint on where you went to or even when you were leaving, Isong asked them.

Sorry man, you were fast asleep. Makuo answered. We just went to see some friends.

Makuo who had already removed his shirt and jean sat on the bed as his girlfriend sat beside him.

Jake brought out some items they bought on their way home.

They all sat on the floor as he opened the nylon and poured some meat on a plate. Isong learnt that they stopped by ‘new generation hotel’ and requested for five plates of ‘Isi ewu’. He joined them as they all ate and devoured the meat with some chilled drinks.

Least I forget, Makuo spoke turning to Isong; this is Ifeoma my Chikito. He introduced his girlfriend as he was rubbing her cap. Ifeoma smiled and sipped her drink.

Hi, AIG she said 

Hi Isong responded smiling 

Jake also introduced his girlfriend; a beautiful girl with the shape of a coca-cola bottle, the bottle before the present one. She was dark complexioned with a gap-teeth, erotic eyes, cute lips which looked like that of an American baby. She had a great body that strikes a resemblance to a Ghanaian and Nollywood actress Yvonne Nelson.

Isong, meet my angel Irene, Irene meet the one and only owner of Manchester United Club; Jake pointed jokingly.

Wasup, AIG came Irene’s little voice.

Her voice was like that of a soft slow romantic song that could only be played on valentine’s night. It can indeed cure the sick and wake the dead. If only Michael Jackson heard the voice of this damsel, he would have refused death.   

Am coal Isong replied to her. He then fastened his eyes on the movie he had put earlier.

Although he was surprised but didn’t care much. It’s a free world he said to himself. He was yet perplexed even more just after they had cleaned the floor, Jake was kissing and romancing his girlfriend Irene.

Isong was shocked to his marrow. He wasn’t surprised that Jake kissed a girl but that he could actually do it in the presence of someone. He turned around and saw Makuo who had already removed Ifeoma’s top, kissing and touching every inch of her body.

Isong, who was not comfortable, excused himself from the room and allowed them to have privacy.

He went into the Lodge’s common room with a book. Not long after he entered the common room, he heard the sound of music from their room. He began to imagine what was going on there. He knew the music was to cover their voice of ecstasy and any other sexual noise.

Isong smiled at his thoughts then he sat on a white plastic chair in the common room and began to read a novel titled ‘it was just once’ by Prince Ogochukwu Aniebo.

The common room is of the same size with every other room in the lodge. Although it has no kitchen, toilet or any furnished item in it. It’s just empty. This is usually a meeting place for some people in the lodge; some study groups go in there to read and study their books, some just to relax while others to gist. The occupants of Nicon Villa made sure the common room was common to all as well as keeping it clean at all times.

Isong was still reading his novel when his mind drifted back to his secondary school days. He remembered having a girlfriend whom he truly loved and cherished; Pamela was her name. Isong smiled as he recalled the day they both met.

             Isong was already in SS1 when he met Pamela. It was second term when she enrolled into LimeLight Academy as a fresh student. After completing all necessary registrations, she was asked to wait at the reception very close to the bursary unit; that someone will come and show her to her new class.

Pamela was smartly dressed in a multi-coloured flower shirt which she tucked into a neatly ironed black shirt that perfectly aligned on her majestic waist. A well polished pair of sandals with a brown chain wrist-watch.

Pamela was endowed with a curvy body figure. She had a nice B-cup breast size that rested perfectly on her chest.

She waited patiently in the reception trying to observe the room’s decoration; she was lost in the sight of the artistic decorations and painting in the room when a voice jolted her back to reality.

Hi 

Pamela turned and there stood a fair complexioned boy of about 4 ft tall dressed in a neat and well ironed uniform; striped dark blue trousers, a plain sky blue long sleeved shirt with a jacket of the same colour and design on the trousers. He wore a beautiful pair of black sandals with sparkling white socks.

Hi, Pamela responded

You must be the new girl the boy asked, smiling at her.

Yes, I am, Pamela confirmed, staring at his eyes. She thought him handsome because of a dark cute spot at the corner of his nose coupled with his erotic eyes and pink lips.

I am Isong, the class prefect of SS1 Gold A and am here to show you to you new class.

I’m Pamela Patrick

They both shook hands as Pamela carried her school bag and followed Isong.

They got to a class just a little close to the school library; the students of SS1 Gold A were quietly seated copying a note on the board written by their English Teacher. The classroom was big and beautifully decorated with different paintings; it has a big Marker board carefully placed at the centre of the class. Beside it was the class timetable and duty rooster. Next to it was a beautiful black and brown wall clock hanging on the wall of the class then opposite the marker board were the students.

SS1 Gold A was a class of 32 students including the new girl. It is made up of twenty girls and twelve boys of different complexion sizes, height and tribe.

Pamela sat behind Isong and brought out a fresh book for her English studies. She was searching through her bag when the English master began to speak.

Hello students!

Hello sir! Chorused the class.

Today, we will be looking at summary and summary writing, but before we go into it properly, let me address you. This is our first meeting this term, some of you performed well the previous term and the others did not ………

As the teacher was talking to the class, Pamela discovered her pan was not in her bag, she sighed in disappointment, looked left and right not knowing who to ask for a pen; she kept turning to the left and right. Isong immediately caught and understood her condition and then offered her a pen. She smiled and thanked him.

After the class, the school bell rang for their break time. The school usually observed two break times. First is from 10am-10:30am and the second is from 12:45pm- 1:45pm.

Pamela remained in her classroom. As a fresher she had no friends; then decided to stay in class and read a story book. She was reading and at the same time arranging her notebooks and textbooks she received from the school bookshop.

She was still arranging them when she felt a tap at her shoulder. She looked back and smiled.

You didn’t go for a break? The voice asked 

No, Pamela answered. I had my books to arrange and besides am yet to get acquainted with the system here.

Acquainted? How would you achieve that by sitting in the classroom always?

Ha! Ha! This is just once and you’re already saying Isong, na wa oh.

Don’t worry p-girl, I’ll be your guide from this day until the very last.

Isong demonstrated, bowed and then gave Pamela his hand; she was reluctant at first but later placed her palm on his and he led her out of the classroom.

Isong laughed out as he turned to the next page of the novel as if he was really concentrating on reading the book. He drifted back once again to his past, remembering every single detail like it was yesterday. Those were some of his wonderful memories; the sweet memories he shared with Pamela. Oh! How he loved her.

After that very first day Pamela came to the school, she and Isong became really close.

Pamela began to develop emotional feelings for Isong but hid it and pretended not to. Isong on the other hand felt the same but had no gut to table it to her.

O boy! No die o! ‘you better relate your Kasala wey dey inside your head give this girl make you for no get high Bp for this age’, Mike, a friend and classmate of Isong advised.

But it’s not easy, Isong responded. Am not sure she feels the same way.

Easy or not, you better let her know and save yourself the trouble came Mike.

Mike was a very good friend of Isong; they had been friends from JSS1. They both topped their class on a regular occasion. Whenever Isong comes first he comes second and sometimes when Isong falls to second he comes either first or third. They shared almost everything with each other.

Two days before the school’s mid-term break, on a Wednesday afternoon

Isong made up his mind to let out his feelings to Pamela. He was going up the stairs when he met Pamela coming down.

Wasup Ella

Hi, Isong, she smiles; how are you?

Am not too good, Isong replied giving her a sad look.

What’s wrong? Are you sick?

Oh, yes I am sick; but not the normal body sickness. This one is called “HES”

HES? What does that mean? Pamela asked when it’s a new acronym which stands for ‘Human Emotional sicknesses.

Pamela who could not help it laughed and laughed until tears were coming out of her eyes.

Hahaha! Wait a minute, did you just say human …. Emotional what???

Are you laughing at me Ella? Isong asked, pointing to himself.

No, Isong, just…. Hahaha I am so sorry I can’t help but laugh.

Isong felt embarrassed then began to walk upstairs but Pamela stopped him.

Hey! Am sorry, I didn’t mean to embarrass you with my laughter, she apologised holding his hand.

Am so sorry, okay. Why not tell me exactly what the problem is and we’ll take care of it together; she assured me not to know his intention.

Isong, who had been quiet for a while, finally spoke.

Well I am okay now, don’t worry.

Don’t worry? Please don’t tell me that!

Pamela raised her voice, attracting some student’s attention.

Isong didn’t reply. He let go of her hand and headed up as he did earlier but this time, Pamela ran up and blocked him; now standing face to face with him.

Why are you acting like this Isong? She asked gently in a low tone. Please am sorry for annoying you, don’t be mad at me, she pleaded.

Ella, I am not angry with you, Isong assured her. I’m alright.

No you are not, I’m sure of it Pamela stood her ground. I know you stopped to tell me something, something about your emotions. Isong please tell me the truth, are you in love with me? Is that what you want to tell me?

Isong was speechless and dumb-founded. He never knew Pamela could in any way have an inkling about his feelings for her.

Well, I, I ……… wanted to tell you that I …… I ……. Isong stammered.

You wanted to tell me you love me right? Pamela came to his rescue.

Yes, something like that. Isong said, pretending not to mean what he said.

Pamela held his hands and drew him closer to her, staring into his eyes.

Isong I feel the same way for you; I have been for a while and have been waiting for you to voice your feelings to me because I discovered you were in love with me.

What?! So you knew all along. Isong exclaimed, pointing at her.

Yes sir, I knew but you don’t expect a girl to approach a guy, it’s not done that way; she defended herself.

Both Isong and Pamela were so engrossed in their heart discussion that they didn’t hear the school bell indicating the end of break time. It was after the bell rang again after 45 minutes they realized they missed their third lesson for the day. They both hurried to their classroom as if they were being chased by mad dogs.

Isong’s phone began to ring; the loudness of the tune brought him back from his Disney dream land. He looked at the phone, it was an unknown number; he answered it but the call ended immediately. Isong dropped the phone and tried to return to his fantasy world when the phone rang again, he picked it, it was still the same unknown number, he answered and the caller dropped the call again. This happened five times which got Isong wondering who the person was.

After a few minutes, he checked his phone and discovered it was already 11:30pm. He walked back to the room he shared with his friends and benefactor and to his greatest. Chagrin, the girls were still there. The four of them were already asleep. Isong gently shut the door and went back to the common room.

Isong woke up the next day with pains all over his body. He yawned and stretched like a hungry lion who had been without food for days. He walked sluggishly and haggardly towards his room with the intent of having a bath; he came in and still found his two friends asleep with one of the girls awake and trying to get her stuff ready.

Good morning AIG, came Irene

Good morning, oh thank God somebody is awake Isong let out a sigh of relief. Please wake them, this place is a mess.

Isong headed towards the bathroom as Irene tried to wake the trio sleeping with careless abandon.

It has been two weeks since Isong moved in with Makuo and Jake and so far his lifestyle changed drastically. He took more alcohol than his roommates, chased after girls like flies to faeces.

Isong discovered he had a sugar-coated mouth. He can skillfully sweet talk any girl on campus and have her in bed with him. He was so talented that he was able to bed the secretary to their HOD. His friend hailed him and always drank to his success whenever he brought home a different girl. This continued until Isong met Stella, their course mate and senior in the department of Education in Chemistry after a departmental meeting held two days after the fresher’s orientation week. Isong boasted to his friends he would woo Stella and have her in bed with him. He made his move as usual; carefully selected and voiced his words like a pro but was disappointed. He tried for days to break Stella but she was too hard for him. Stella was a Christian who would not compromise her faith for anything. His friend laughed at him; they both joked and mocked him. As he tried to convince Stella to be his girlfriend, Stella on the other hand preached the gospel to him and tried to win him to Christ.

This girl is really playing hard to get. Isong said to his friends one cool evening at the lodge’s backyard where the occupants do most of their laundry, fitness exercise and play football. The backyard was quite big, accommodating various activities at the same time.

Indeed she is tough Jake’s voice as he dropped the dumb bells he was carrying. Do you know what they say about tough people? Jake asked facing Makuo who laid on a bench lifting a barbell with a weight plates of about 25kg.

Tough times never last … Makuo started incompletely as he resumed his routine bodybuilding.

…… but tough people do, Jake completed the statement and let out a soft laugh.

Tough or not tough, all I know is that I’ll get her someday and very soon. It was only a matter of time; Isong assured his friends. After all, the tougher they get the sweeter they become.

Isong was very confident that he’ll succeed in getting Stella. He resumed what he knew how to do best but yet he couldn’t change Stella’s mind.

Two months before the student’s freshers night, Stella met Isong and his friends in school on their way home.

The freshers night is a party organized for the new admitted students. This occurs yearly and usually on the night of their matriculation.

Good afternoon brother Isong; she greeted while waving at his two friends. 

Good afternoon Stella; how are you today Isong inquired.

I bless the name of the Lord for his love and kindness; she smiled.

Stella was a girl of 22, fair-complexioned with an average height. She possessed a great body for modeling which made some of non-Christian friends wonder why she didn’t go for modeling. She was envied by the girls in her department because of her wonderful figure which gets every guy salivating whenever and whenever she goes or enters. Many girls on campus resent her, not just for her looks or her refusal for modeling but for her Christian life. They claimed she carries Jesus even more than the pope himself; wherever she goes she always carries her bible. If not Jesus this, is Jesus that. Is she the only born-again on this campus?

Brother Isong, I want to invite you to a wonderful program coming up next week at the school hall; it’s a joint campus fellowship at JCCF. Please be there, you’ll love it. We are expecting a special guest speaker. I’ll be very glad if you come.

Isong who had mixed feelings of both anger, confusion and disappointment didn’t mutter any word.

Hello, brother Isong, did you hear what I said? She snapped her finger trying to get his full attention.

Oh! Yes I did, I’ll try and come. Isong finally spoke out.

Thank you and God bless you she smiled at him then turned to leave.

Hold on, Stella Isong stopped her. Stella turned to him; any problem brother Isong?

No problem at all, Isong smiled. I just want to know if you have reconsidered my proposal.

Hmmm brother Isong, she drew closer to him and looked him in the eyes; there are so many important things to think about, or do more than just the two of us.

Isong who had nothing else to say just nodded in agreement and Stella left his presence.

Isong don’t tell me you will be going for that so called joint whatever vigil; Makuo asked looking him in the eye.

Are you really asking that? Jake turned to Makuo. Our dude is crazy for that girl and he’ll do anything to have her, even if it means him walking up to Mount Everest twenty times.

Hahaha! I laugh in Hebrew came Makuo’s voice. Don’t tell me he still have that girl in mind,

You guys should keep mocking me, all I know is that I’ll have that Stella, come what may. Isong assured himself. And besides you guys are coming with me.

What! You are joking right? Makuo asked

Hey bro, I don’t think that’s a joke; when this dude means something, he means it to the core, Jake, told Makuo. Take heart bro, we are going,  just to stand for him.

Oh mehn! I can’t believe all this.

Isong left the floor and layed on the bed then wandered his mind back to his good old days in the secondary school. He finally dated Pamela, the only girl he loved throughout his days in the secondary. But this is different, he thought to himself, life on campus is a reckless one, one can have affairs with numerous girls and yet keep one as the main girl without anyone knowing.

As he wondered, he also reasoned, he had slept with numerous girls on this campus from his early days with his roommates. Oh! How they have corrupted him. A sweet child filled with innocence knowing no evil. Anyways, I am a big boy, I can handle things; so he thought.

A week later, the three friends went to a birthday party. If it was Friday night and everyone was excited, showcasing their dancing skills on the dance floor, every guy had a girl to himself, each person carrying a bottle of different alcoholic drinks, sipping it gently as they rocked the dance floor.

Isong and his friends were not left out, they were carried away in the wave of rocks on you as the music, the drinks and the girls drove them to a place of extreme ecstasy.

Isong’s you was cut short when his phone rang. He looked at the screen and discovered it was Stella. Oh! He had forgotten tonight was the JCCF night program; he left the dance floor to answer the call.

Hello, Isong, where are you?

Hi, Stella, how are you?

Where are you brother Isong? Have you forgotten what tonight is?

Ehm! Isong stammered, I haven’t forgotten how can I?

Where are you please and what’s that noise?

Ehm! Ehm! Actually I am on my way, the noise must be coming from a near-by bar, he lied.

Hope you’ll still make it. Stella asked,  Ofcourse I will, I will never miss it for anything, I would have been there had it been I am coming alone.

Who are you coming with, she inquired. I am bringing my roommates along. He replied.

Oh! That’s wonderful, please hurry up brother Isong.

I will, thank you

He hung up and went back to the dance floor to inform his friends.

Guys! Isong yelled 

Wasup, bro where you go, Jake asked 

Guys we need to go, I’d almost forgotten tonight was the JCCF program.

That’s true , oh! Makuo re-confirmed 

Please let’s leave, we’re already late.

Isong dragged his friends as they left the party ground.

As they approached the venue, they could hear a song of worship and the sounds of various instruments that accompanied the song;

Bow down and worship him

We bow down and worship him

Worship him …… oh worship him

Jesus the king of kings

Jesus the king of kings

Worship him ….. oh worship him

When they got to the church, they noticed everyone was focused and connected to the worship of their maker; some were weeping, others were kneeling with their hands lifted to God.

The trio came in and sat at the back talking and making noise as the worship was going on; after some minutes, the preacher mounted the altar and began to preach.

I bring you greetings in the name of the Lord. Brothers and sisters the message I bring you tonight is an important one and it is something you shouldn’t joke with …..

As the preacher was preaching, the three friends were also in their personal discussion. They ignored the preacher, not minding whether or not they were disturbing others. This continued for a while until Isong was no longer fully involved in his discussion with his friends.

Brethren, you have a purpose for being in this school. The number one priority is your studies then every other thing is secondary. But do not forget in everything you do, put God first. Some of you have back slided, have gone astray, you have done this and that because of your friends, but I have a message for you. The bible has told you to come out from among them. It doesn’t matter if he or she pays your school fees or house rent or feeds you, it is time you let go of everything and anything holding you down and preventing you from recognizing your creator. Listen Isaiah in the holy scripture was too attached to King Uzaiah and as such he had a road block but the moment he disconnected himself, the bible says when King Uzaiah died Isaiah saw the Lord, it is time for you …….

Isong whose attention was now fixed on the preacher began to cry as the word kept pricking his heart. His friends were perplexed, they were lost. They just couldn’t understand or have a clear cut-out of what is wrong with Isong.

The preacher was about concluding his German as he made an altar call.

If you are here and you want to give your life to Christ please stand.

With a tremendous acceleration and alacrity Isong stood without giving it any second thought.

The preacher asked him to come forward to the altar.

Isong left his friends as he walked towards the altar as sister Stella stepped out and embraced him smiling. 

Makuo and Jake who could not bear it any longer left the auditorium.

Isong was prayed for and asked to repeat some prayers made by the preacher. He received Christ and renounced his sinful nature. Stella was very glad Isong had embraced Christ.

Isong got back to his lodge the following day being Saturday; as he entered the room he shared with his friends, they both began to laugh at him, hailed him and called him names.

Thou art welcomed oh pastor, Jake second Hahahaha came Makuo, No No Jake I think he is our Lord Bishop.

Isong who could not stand the sarcasm and names from his friends went into the kitchen and wept bitterly thinking where it would end but Makuo and Jake frustrated him every passing day. They’ll drink in his presence, sleep with girls in the room not minding if Isong was there or not; telling him to stop pretending and come back to his original way that this new found faith does not suit him.

Isong struggled day by day to keep up with his Christian life despite the headaches and heartaches from his friends. He kept telling himself he’ll overcome all the temptations, no matter what his friends throw at him he won’t be moved. He continued until a day came ……..

Isong was home alone studying, his friends were out as usual to catch fun. He decided to use the opportunity to study his bible and his book. At about 1:25pm a knock was heard on the door, Isong opened the door and found Nneka with two chargers, two phones and a torch.

Can I come in? asked Nneka

Sure, replied Isong

Sorry for disturbing you, my phones are down and since your generator is on I decided to come and charge them.

No problem at all, you can go and plug them. Isong responded by pointing at the extension at the edge of the bed.

Nneka was fair complexioned. A girl of 22, slender with deceptive hips which could lure many men to hell.

She used to be Isong’s girlfriend before they both parted ways.

She walked towards the extension, as Isong resumed his study.

She picked a novel on the bed and started flipping through the pages, pretending to focus on the book but stealing surreptitious looks at Isong.

After some minutes, she began changing sitting position like the way a chameleon changes its color to adapt to an environment. She did this for a while with the intention of getting Isong’s attention. Isong on the other hand was trying to contain the distractions carrying from the girl sitting opposite him.

Have I ever wronged you, Isong?

Isong raised his head and tried to answer the question but couldn’t. He could not fathom completely the direction of that question.

Nneka, who expected an answer, threw another question.

What did I really do to you that made you leave me the way you did?

This time, she came closer to the tale facing Isong directly who was still trying to gather words.

You…….. you……… d………i………d not 

    Isong stammered; he wondered why she was asking such questions at this very delicate moment. As he was still thinking, Nneka planted a kiss on his lips and before you could blink they both started devouring each other’s lips and moaned gently. Isong was lost in the world of ecstasy as he pushed his table aside, grabbed Nneka by the waist and began caressing her body inch by inch, kissing her all over as he undressed her and started making love to her.

Nneka moaned and groaned loudly as she held her man very close as if someone was trying to seize him.

Isong was a pro when it comes to pleasing ladies in bed. He positioned the girl and was firing with all his manly strength, twisting and moving his waist vigorously like one dancing to the popular song ‘skelewu’.

They were both engrossed in their carnal affair when the door was opened. They were both oblivious of Jake and Makuo who stood with their hands akimbo watching them.

Makuo let not a shout which ended their sexual journey as both of them looked in shock. Both Makuo and Jack began to hail Isong, calling him all sorts of names.

Oh hail Our AIG, the Bishop, One and Only Pastor Makuo called out.

Isong who could not bear the shame walked into the kitchen and layed on the floor weeping; While Nneka picked her clothes and ran out of the room.

Isong remained in the kitchen weeping and cursing himself while his friends were in the living room drinking until his fall.

I knew this new act wouldn’t last, Jake said to Makuo.

You’d better come and join us instead of pretending, Makuo yelled at him.

Isong cried bitterly and soon slept off in the kitchen

Later that night, his friends brought him to the living room, consoled him and persuaded him to come back, that this Christian life of a thing does not suit him.

Part two

…..night of agony…..

It’s a week since the incident of Isong’s sexual escapade with Nneka dunned and a week to the long awaited matriculation.

Isong returned to his previous lifestyle of drinking, partying and all kinds of lifestyle which the Christian way spoke against. In fact, he became worse than he was.

His Christian brethren tried to get him back to the faith but Isong bluntantly turned them all down.

Brother Isong, Stella called out to him one faithfully day as he was trying to stop a bike.

Brother Isong, she called out again, please come back to Jesus. It doesn’t matter what you’ve done yesterday, God is interested in your today and tomorrow. He wants you to……….

Isong, who was looking at the floor as Stella was speaking to him, raised his head and retorted.

God cannot be interested in a liability. This lifestyle does not suit me, can’t you see?

No, don’t talk like that, Stella interrupted. Brother Isong, you have to fight this, this is a trial, a temptation, you have to fight it and overcome it. God wants you back, we want you back, Stella pleaded, holding his hand.

No! Stella, Isong yelled as he removed his hand from hers. I have made up my mind and you or anyone else cannot make me change it.

Isong left Stella in bewilderment as he mounted a bike and disappeared.

Both Makuo and Jake were glad that their last brother is back to them and back for better.

As the matriculation was fast approaching, the trio were making plans for a grand party on that matriculation night.

Makuo had called his aunt who stays in the UK requesting for some money to celebrate his matriculation while Jake on the other side was addressing the issues of drinks, venue and color of the night.

Isong who was also part of the organizers made his contributions the best way he could. Despite the joy and merriment of the preparations, Isong was not at peace. He felt he needed to return to his Christian faith, to embrace Christ once more and hold on to him tenaciously.

On several occasions, he had nightmares that triggered fears running down his spine. He looked scared and sometimes acted scared and whenever his friends asked him what was wrong, he claimed nothing was wrong.

Come … Isong, what’s going with you? Makuo who had noticed his strange behavior asked him. You’ve been acting like a cat on hot bricks ever since we started this party preparations.

AIG my guy, Jake called out, if you’ve sick, you better let us know so we can treat it in time. I don’t like this your frantic and namby-pamby attitude of recent. Shake it off man.

Am alright guys, am not ill. Isong defended himself. All these things are still new to me that’s why it seems I am acting weird, he lied.

Isong does not know how pleasant it is to relate his fears to his friends without being mocked.

No qualms bro, if you insist nothing is wrong just get used to the system because that is how we roll Jake encouraged him.

Isong nodded in agreement and continued with his duties.

It is Friday, the day of the long awaited matriculation of the first year students. The day was bright and beautiful. The atmosphere was coal as the gentle breeze blew across the trees as they danced in excitement. Everyone involved in this matriculation was busy doing one thing or the other starting from the gate down to the matriculation ground.

One could see the lovely decoration made at the gate of the school and would have mistaken Anambra State University (Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University) for had the inscription at the top of the gate had not been there. From the school gate in the open field at the right; one could see canopies erected and positioned and tagged with the names of the fellowship that erected them. Inside the canopies are the fellowship members already taken their positions; some at the mic stand, some at the instruments, some were standing while others were sitting.

People were moving in and out of the school compound as photographers were busy chasing some students and parents around asking them to pose and take some photos.

Lots of people were busy dang one thing or the other. Some were engaged in some conversation, others were taking their seats at the main matriculation ground directly opposite the first open field beside the school library.

It was exactly 9am. The freshers were asked to go and line-up beside the engineering complex for their procession. The procession began just 10 minutes after the students were asked to line up.

They were properly arranged on the line dressed in their green matriculation gown with their caps on their head.

Hymns were sung as they all began to march towards the matriculation round. Some students who were late joined the line as they came.

Ahead of the freshers were the school authorities also processing in their gowns of different sizes and caps. The V.C, registrar, secretary, Deans, some faculty officers, and the admission officer were marching towards the ground as they sang hymns.

After the procession, an opening prayer was made followed by the National anthem, Anambra State anthem and the school anthem which every sang standing erect.

As the program was in motion, Isong whose Joy knew  no bounds couldn’t believe he’s being matriculated with the other students. He kept smiling virtually to every person who passed by; almost hugging them. His friend on the other hand was glad he’s happy.

Almost an hour after the matriculation program began, Isong was feeling uneasy and in high expectation of his mum and sisters. He would turn over his shoulder at every minute searching for them.

At 1:25pm, Jake got a call, asking him to come towards the gate with Makuo and Isong.

Why are we moving towards the gate? Isong asked with a puzzled look on his face.

Ha-ha, Don’t be paranoid bro, you’ll see Jake assured.

On getting to the gate, the trio were pre planned including Jake who received the call.

They met their parents and siblings coupled with friends and wed wishers.

Lady Vivian was overjoyed to see her son Isong who is finally an undergraduate. A dream came through. She couldn’t contain her joy as she hugged her son with tears.

On the other hand, Makuo smiled as he hugged his parents Mr and Mrs Amaechi as did Jake whose father came, pastor Simeon Otutu.  

They were all happy to be together that very day with their lovely boys.

Isong who was still marveled as their parents came together asked with both hands akimbo.

But wait o, how did you all come together?

Your mother was with me when Mr Amaechi called asking if I could go with him; I then decided both I and your mother and chief come together, answered pastor Simeon.

Interesting how you all knew each other yet we don’t have any single idea; come Jake’s voice.

Makuo held his friends and brought them together.

Had we not me Isong. Here in school we wouldn’t even know one another.

They all smiled as they went to a very comfortable spot to celebrate.

It was a memorable day in their lives, especially for Isong. Amidst his fears and insecurity about his friends plans after the celebration he was so glad to see his mother and sisters. They ate, drank, danced, talked and took photos. It was indeed a lovely and fabulous reunion.

Finally, it was time to go, as they began to pack the items their parents brought.

Pastor Simeon called the boys, prayed for them and gave them some words of advice that could help them in their stay on campus.

They all hugged their children as they bid the farewell and left.

The boys hurried and concluded what they had in hand as they drove back to the body to round-off the preparations for the grand party at Owerri.

At 6:30pm, they were set. They all got into the car with joy except Isong who reluctantly entered looking pale. They were all in jean trousers as their dress code implied. Makuo took the wheels as his girlfriend sot with him in front while Isong shared the back seats with Jake and his girlfriend.

They zoomed off towards their destination but stopped shortly at spencer road just before the school main gate as Isong alarmed them that his jean was tom.

Oh! Jehova! Exclaimed Jake which kind winch be dis na?

O boy na wa u o, Makuo let  out turning to Isong.

You have to go and change o, you can’t come like this and I don’t time; I can wait for you assured Makuo.

Isong, who could not explain how his jeans got torn, told his pals to calm down.

You guys can go, I’ll find my way.

Alright bro, but don’t waste any time, you can’t afford to miss anything dude, Jake told him.

Isong nodded as he alighted the car and flagged down a bike who took him back to the lodge.

He hurried as he changed into a new jean but was still pondering on how his former jean got torn, unable to solve the puzzle in his head, he raced down and got on the bike who was waiting and headed towards Uli- center a bus-stop along Onitsha-Owerri express road where he would get a bus to Owerri.

On getting to Uli-center, Isong saw a cluster of people, some with folded arms, others hands placed on their heads. He discovered it was an accident but he didn’t care much as he got off the bike and paid, but as he was about to walk towards the bus he quickly glanced at the vehicle’s number-plate and co, it was Makuo’s car, he screamed with a loud voice M-A-K-U-O and ran towards the car, pushed his way through and held Makuo who was at a point of death by a shattered glass which pierced his neck.

Isong held him in tears, screaming please Makuo, don’t die I beg you, don’t leave me Makuo tried to mutter something but alas it was too late, he gave up.

Isong ran to the back where he found Jake in his pool of blood. He discovered both Ifeoma and Irene were already dead. Isong pulled Jake out of the back-seat and started pleading, begging him not to die.

Isong screemed, Jake give your life to Christ, give your life to Christ please! please!

Jake in excruciating pain let-out, had – I- known my father warned me. 

Isong pleaded with some on-lookers who assisted him to carry Jake as someone offered to transport him to a near-by hospital with his car.

On route to the hospital close to Uli-center at Ihiala, Isong who was now shirtless because he used it to tie Jake’s broken head kept pleading with his friend to accept Christ before it was too late.

They got to the gate of Genesis memorial hospital at 8:15pm. Some nurses rushed toward the gate pushing the wheel bed. They helped place Jake on the bed and gently began pushing him into the hospital with Isong holding his hand.

Isong asked Jake to repeat after him; 

I received you Jesus, as my Lord and personal savior.

 Jake struggled to speak, I-I receive y-ou J-e-su-s as m-y my 

That was what he could say, and became mute and motionless.

Isong screamed No!!!! Jake no!!, please don’t go. He cried and cared until there were no more tears in his eyes.

He cried to the wonder of everyone at the hospital. They were numb to the fact. Isong cried the way he did. No one could understand this except Isong.

How on earth did my jeans get torn? I could have also been lying on that bed, or on the floor at the scene of the accident. Isong, who could not yet find the answer, spoke to himself.

It was at this point that Isong recognized his maker and felt a big down-pour of regrets.

Why did you rescue me? Isong spoke aloud to the amusement of the people around him.

Who am I? What do I have to offer? I was unfaithful, an infidel, a coward, a lazy and a baby Christian, yet you chose to rescue me.

People around became confused and frightened, some wondered if he was speaking to a ghost at his dead friend while others thought his brain had snapped and was on the verge of going insane.

Isong arose from the floor, dusted himself, wiped his tears with the back of his hand and spoke aloud again but this time conscious of his surroundings.

What has happened, has happened 

What will be, will be

And with these words, Isong left the hospital having made up his mind to return to his Christian brethren and most importantly his maker and mend his ways.

The news spread like wildfire. Everyone in school heard it including the parents of the trio who ate with their children, danced, celebrated, took photos with their children some hours ago and couldn’t believe it. It was like a nightmare, the boys they all saw were no more.

The entire school was mute, no monument anywhere, nobody played music, nobody came outside to gist or gossip, they were all frozen.

Indeed, the matric was silent. The wind of silence slept across every corner, every street, every lodge, especially Nicon Villa where the trio stayed. There was blood in the air and everyone kept to himself as they all consoled themselves to the news of the latest event.     

Story By The Author: The Redeemed