by Chuks Gerry
Humming and whistling a familiar tune, something he always indulge anytime he is in a jolly good mood, he turned his door knob and came face to face with Sanni.
Okay there he is, talk about the devil,’ Rabiu said in a quivering tone.
Aliyu died on the spot his heart wandering to every possible outcome of this meeting but he braced himself for the worse.
Where are you coming from? Sanni asked curtly
From the field,’ he replied before thinking, giving Rabiu a quizzical stare, his heartbeat fluttering.
By this time, what were you doing there?
I went for a little exercise, jogging and running to keep fit,’ he stammered, obviously a fib.
Hmmm, you seem to be visiting the fields a lot these days. From tomorrow you’re to resume duty at the northern entrance and stand guard there from dawn till dusk. That should wear you down considerably,’ he said walking past him to the front door. From now henceforth, no authorized persons should be at the fields at odd hour until after the ceremony is concluded commencing from tonight.
Yes sir,’ he replied tersely wanting to end this talk.
Sanni took his leave with Rabiu trailing just behind. He sat heavily on his bed his mind desolate. Rabiu returned some minutes later acknowledge his presence and went to his bed to lie down. Sluggishly he stood up, grabbed his towel and soap dish and made off to the bathroom. He doubted Rabiu had snitched even a tiny bit on him because if he had, he will be on deathrow by now.
Guard duty at the northern entrance was one of the most tasking ever meant for stubborn and unruly personnel as a means of punishment. The scorching sun feasted on bodies all day with no available shed in sight to seek shelter. His duty took his entire time rendering him fagged out, not affording him time for himself or anyone else least of all Mariam. But he needed not worry because Mariam have her subtle way of dropping salient information when necessary.
On the second day at his new post he felt like passing out several times, the sun wasn’t suffering fools gladly unleashing its fury throughout the entire day accompany by dusty biting wind which left him blindsided. At night to even shower became a chore as he find it cumbersome scooping the water over his weary body. He let out several loud gasps of relief as the cool water splashes over his tired muscle slowly flourishing it. He thoroughly lathered himself, did same to his sponge then proceeds to scrub his whole body thereafter he stretch forth his hand to where he kept his soap can but couldn’t find it. He deep his hand inside his bucket of water but still it wasn’t there. Frustrated he reached out for his towel to wipe the lather from his eyes when he felt a splash of water on his body and a faint giggle, he hissed and cursed upon realizing someone was playing a prank on him.
What kind of monkey joke is this,’ he barked to no response. Upon opening his eyes, there she was smiling peevishly at him. He quickly covered up his nakedness surprised at her presence in the bathroom.
Are you insane, what are you doing here? He berated
I had to see you.
Offcourse you had to but can’t it be somewhere else, gosh you’re such a weirdo,’ he squealed after properly covering his privates.
Enough now tell me everything,’ she said impatiently. He hissed and grumbled a little before proceeding to narrate everything she had risked all to hear. As he spoke he watched how her solemn expression transcended to bewilderment then to amazement glistening with excitement after he’d finished.
I’m so proud of you,’ she said graciously beaming with smiles, almost becoming beautiful which was a huge difference from her usual hardened demure.
We must leave the day after tomorrow which is a night to the initiation rites, any day after then will be almost impossible.
I agree with you. Tomorrow I’ll find a way to get across to you a list of the final items we’ll require to make the sojourn peacefully.
Okay that will be fine by me.
Now how do you intend to leave here unnoticed?
Leave it to me boy, I’ve my ways,’ she replied with a wink,’ and thanks once again.
For what exactly?
For choosing not to leave without us, you could but decided not to. A choice which shows how commited you are to those you love.
That night as he lay on his bed, his mind pondered on any possible glitch to his plan and how to perfect it since otherwise will automatically turn it into a suicide mission, by dawn he hadn’t had much sleep.
Two a.m the next morning they were awaken and lead into two separate vans; Hajiya Fatima and Zainab in one van while the others in another. The motorcade was headed to Alhaji Danbaba Dansuki’s residence in the stillness of the night, facing no hitch along the way. The city was in a state of abandonment with most of its streetlights off, the stores and buildings stood lifeless giving a creepy conundrum vibe at this odd hour. Everyone on board played along most especially Val and Eugene who sat quietly in their corner observing, occasionally rattled by the gully nature of the pavement they ply with such high speed. Agatha’s words lingered in their mind forewarning them of what to expect from tonight’s sting operation. Atlast they came to a stop and everything became quiet. After waiting for what seems like eternity, there heard a gunshot, a single lone shot not series of shot like they had expected and then the silence returned.
Now what? Whispered Val, a shush was the reply he got from the darkness. A phone ranged from the drivers seat, someone answered listening to instructions rattled by the caller. Immediately the door of the Van flung open and three stocky men grab hold of each of them pulling them off the van one by one. They were told to kneel down facing the duplex and then one of the men took out his matchete and made to strike Mrs Nwankwo with all his might, Val caught sight of it and took a dive at him. The matchet slid from his grip as Val landed several quick punches on his face. His colleague ran over but tripped and fell on Eugene’s leg; Amara shrieked cowering behind her mother. The third fellow who had been on the phone the entire time pulled out his gun and pointed it at Eugene who immediately hands up. There was a clicked and banged, Eugene drop to his knee his eyes close as darkness enshrouds him. The darkness was surreal, calm and peaceful, his soul transcended in it. Suddenly it became loud and shaky, so much so his entire body shook. And then he opened his eyes slowly wondering,
Am I dead?
No you’re not,’ Val replied shaking him some more,’ atleast not yet.
Thank God! He exclaimed seeping in some fresh air. Agatha strolled over to where they were.
Are you alright Mr Man?
Yes I’m but what took you guys so long, we were almost killed.
I’m sorry it wasn’t intentional, protocols had to be observed. The entire property is besiege, Alhaji Nasiru is exactly were we need him.
With the entire perimeter covered by men from the joint task force, most of Alhaji Nasiru men were apprehended while a few carted off in their vans with the police on their trail. As she was speaking the man who pointed the gun at Eugene was wheeled into an ambulance to be treated before handed back to the police for questioning.
Alhaji Nasiru should be out any moment,’ Agatha continued more to herself, looking expectedly at the duplex. Then suddenly a screaming figure being dragged along by some uniform men emerge from the building.
How dare you, let got of me this second. Do you know who I am? He kept yelling at the officers,’ I said let go of my hand. I’ll come with you just let me be.
There he is, acting like the stubborn goat he is,’ she said walking towards to him.
Though surrounded by a bunch of officers Alhaji Nasiru adamantly refused to enter the police van choosing instead to make ostentations calls to his attorney and other highly placed individuals.
I’ll deal with all of you for this embarrassment,’ he spat. Imaging harassing me just because I came visiting my late friend’s widow. Is that enough to warrant an arrest? A voice called his name; he turned around stunned to see his chief of staff all suit up.
Alhaji Nasiru I suggest
you relax else you’d be charged also with refusal of arrest among your numerous offences.
And what are you doing here?
My name is Vera, agent Vera Ugwu working undercover at the intelligence and special duties unit in the department of state secuirity.
Haba you too, you that I trusted and confided in, subhanallah! He exclaimed nonplussed.
Trust they say is overated. Sir, you’re hereby arrested for the kidnapping and murder of Alhaji Danbaba Dansuki and colleagues, attempted murder of his wives, kidnapping and attempted murder of Mrs Nwankwo, her family and friends, theft, forgery, treason, corruption, fraud and many more. You’re advised to hereby remain silient because whatever you say can and will be used against you in the court of law. Offcourse you have the right to an attorney.
He was taken aback in silence for a moment, reeling in the stake of betrayal before charging forward at her with all his might but was timely restrained by the policemen and handcuffed. He was bundled and flunged into the van which didn’t deter him from reeling out his mind,
You little piece of shit, I’ll crush you,’ he threatened. I’ll destroy all of you; you don’t know what I’m capable of. This is not the last you will hear of me I promise,’ his vituperations went on and on until the van whisked away.
Thank you all very much for your cooperation the agency really does appreciate,’ Agent Vera Ugwu stated commending their effort.
We thank the Lord Almighty for delivering me and my children from the shackles of death,’ Mrs Nwankwo responded lifting her hands in appreciation. Today me and my family will finally sleep peacefully,’ she continued crankily.
So what happens to him? Val asked regarding the Alhaji.
He belongs with us now; he’ll have to furnish us with important informations especially regarding his clandestine association with the sect, a major breakthrough towards locating their actual operational base. She went off giving instruction and directive to her men, thereafter a van came to take them all to the station for their statement.
The bevy of activities in preparation for what was termed one of the grandiest initiation ceremonies holding the following night can better be described as smouldering however Aliyu was more than prepared executing his obligation in strides. On a day such as this there is usually little focus on internal security as everyone concentrates on making sure every minut detail is addressed thereby giving Aliyu the much needed opportunity to make several trips to the mountain unnoticed to deliver various materials required for tonight’s adventure . On his way back from one of such trips, his commading officer, a nasty wrinkly fellow with a crooked nose flew into a fit regarding his disappearing act before sending him to the arena to deliver certain items. He jogged along the way in a bid to meet up time and not further aggravate his boss. After delivering the items, another package was giving for him to carry back. He lifted it on one side of his shoulder and was about beginning his journey back when he paused upon hearing someone call his name.
Amina approached him looking disheveled and weary with sad eyes but quite relieved to see him. She didn’t have good news which was apparent from the way she looked. His heart melted fearing for what she has to say, he waited for her so that they can stroll back together since they were heading towards the same direction. On the way she informed him of Nneka bleeding as a result of the ardous task she was subjected to the day before and haven’t been feeling too well since then.
He inquired if Mariam was aware to which she nodded, adding that she was doing the best medically possible to salvage the situation but still requires astute medical attention before it gets more complicated. He wondered how serious her situation was and if it would be an impediment on tonight’s mission. She requires the attention of real medical personnel to examine her and the state of her condition ASAP, but being here and keeping it under the radar is detrimental.
By the way where is she?
At the milling corner,’ she replied. He dropped his package with her to watch while he ran over to the structure housing the milling machine which wasn’t too far away. He saw her sitted in the midst of the other ladies with a large tray on her laps sieving through grains amidst flaky dusty airy white particles everywhere. He walked over to where she sat watching her for several minutes noticing how her frail and weary she looked. Tapping her gently on the shoulder; she dropped the tray and rushed to him in an embrace. Though tired and sickly she manages to still put up an act.
How’re you babe? He asked looking into her lovely doe eyes as she manages a forced grin suggesting all wasn’t well.
It’s been a while since we last saw,’ she said instead. Did Mariam intimate you of my condition?
I heard but not from her. The last time we spoke you were so furious at me; it’s nice seeing you in a lighter mood. This child growing inside of you is a symbol of my unbridled love. It tells you that love can survive even in the harshiest of climate.
Promise me something,’ she said in a sullen tone,’ promise me this plan of yours won’t fail because if it did you will loose both of us.
It won’t I promise you. All you need do is follow Mariam’s instructions and all will be fine. By noon tomorrow you’ll be in safe hands,’he assured confidently. After bading her farewell he sped off to deliver his boss package bearing in mind he’d delayed again and most likely to be admonished with harsh words.
Everything proceded as normal, after the onerous day’s work the evening was an euphoria of leisure activities. With the early arrival of some guests for the occasion which was still more than a full day away, celebrations was in order. After deligently discharging his duties, Aliyu had his shower and later joined a couple of friends for some quick updates where he garnered some shocking revelations about the sect finances being in shambles and some of its key financiers apparently apprehended by the federal authorithies. This occassion was intended to be scrapped but the authorities thought it might threatened the soverenity of the sect thereby exposing its vulnerability to all and sundry, a feat they can’t allow. Gossips and hearsay was a common feature among little groups gathered together which no one claims responsibility for if what was said ever filtered back to the ears of the authorithies. The discussions went on steadily until he was called upon by Rabiu that he was needed in the upper malstrom. He almost went beserk on Rabiu for choosing to involve him with any engagement without prior notice but was duly informed it was Sanni who’d personally requested his presence. He scoffed and went on his way. His function at the upper malstrom was nothing more than just running errands and attending to the honourable guests, grateful it didn’t involved any heavy lifting. He went about his chores until it ten p.m when he then feigned chronic chest pains and was reluctantly discharged by Sanni.
By the time he reaches the arena, Histar Valley was pitch black with most people probably asleep or just indoors. He looked behind him severally as he made a turn and scuttle into the field, jogging and hoping Mariam hasn’t gotten there before him. Upon reaching the familiar bushpath leading to the mount he picked up a small bag he’d hid earlier in the bush, took out a torch and proceded to the foot of the mount. Discovering there was no one around; he dropped the bag and went back the path where he picked a nice spot to await them. After almost an hour and no show he became worried, praying nothing had gone wrong. He waited some more before deciding to go back to seek for Mariam and check if all is well. He got up, dusted himself and had just taken a few steps when he saw flashes of light flickering just ahead of him. He delve back into the bush undercover and hid, heart pounding so fast he found it difficult breathing. Crawling on his knees for several feet, not minding the risk of being bitten by snakes or other creeping creatures he located a vantage spot where he could easily make out the features of those ahead, his visions having acclimatized to the darkness. The torchlight flickered on and off three times, then he blew a soft whistle which was responded by a mild cooing, a coded signal all was well.
What took you guys so long,’ Aliyu blurted fro
m the shadows.
Can’t you see I came with company,’ she snapped at him.
He stepped out. Surprised at the number of people with her, he went beserked. She insisted they were friends and couldn’t bear living without them. He gave up and went over to Nneka.
Are you alright? He asked after briefly embracing.
Not too good but the thought of seeing my family again keeps me strong,’ she replied feebly.
Yes you will,’ he said pausing,’ I’d never told anyone this but I saw them during our last mission.
Are you for real, you saw my family?
Yea——yes,’ he nodded,’ there came in contact with us but I devised a means to saved them.
Thanks a million times Aliyu for saving them, I’m really grateful,’ she said elated,’ I believe your family is safe too and in great shape.
Yea I hope so,’ he replied more to himself. There was a tap on his collarbone, it was Mariam and on her palm were three pistols. She handed him one, gave one to Amina and held unto the last one. He mentally noted the number they are, nine in total and his heart took a leap when he saw a pregnant lady backing a child with a kid in his teen by herside. The procession continued in silence until they got to the foot of the mount Histar, he parted the rock boulders exposing the void. Mariam very much like the rest of them gasps in awe as they went through the hollow passageway in amazement. She went on to narrate how many times she had been here with Rasaq and never imagined a cave like such existed.