The doctors are doing their best. Since she has been hiding this money, I took it to buy everything needed for her recovery. Once I saw her condition improve slightly, I went back to the division where I reported the assault against my daughter, and they said an investigation would be carried out. The police officer assured me they were doing their best but were unable to identify the culprit. However, they promised to continue the investigation. I pleaded with them again in the name of God to help me, and they said, "Insha Allah" (God willing), they would. I then returned to the hospital. Eventually, we were discharged. She is better now; she can sit up and doesn't cry when she urinates. But the situation is terrible because she has already been deeply harmed. We returned home, and I continued her care where the doctors left off. Yet, up until now, the security agents have done nothing. Every time I go there, they give me one excuse or another until I realized they weren't actually investigating. I surrendered everything to God, for He is the All-Hearing, All-Seeing, and He will judge the oppressor, as He neither commits nor supports injustice. Ibrahim Khalil said, "I don't mean to interrupt, but servant of God, are you saying that after you went to that division, no one ever followed up with you regarding the girl? And you didn't take the complaint elsewhere, even though these officers gave no support to the investigation and there are no leads on the perpetrator?" She gave a bitter smile and said, "No one followed up with us. And I didn't take the complaint elsewhere because I don't know my way around Kaduna very well. I only went to the division in our area." Ibrahim Khalil replied, "May God grant us success. We are listening." She continued, "So we lived like that, and it seemed as though she was healing; about four or five months passed. But then, she started having a foul discharge from her private parts. I didn't have the money to take her back to the hospital, so I started scrambling to find work. I did laundry, I threshed grain, I did domestic work—there was no job I didn't take. I managed to scrape together enough to take her back." "When we got there, they said she needed surgery that would cost a huge amount of money. They even said the surgery isn't performed in every state hospital in this country. Even for the scanning, they said it was very expensive. Malam Ibrahim, I have nothing. Her father is late; it's just me. We have no wealthy relatives; everyone is struggling on their own. They said they would give her some medications to calm the condition, but it wouldn't go away completely. I’m supposed to get her medicine every month, and the cost is more than I even have. I took what I could and we went home." "While giving her the medicine, she seemed to get a bit better, but as soon as it ran out, the condition returned. I persevered in my work to buy her medicine. Malam Ibrahim, time passed, and eventually, I also fell ill from the hardship. I worked day and night without rest, and I developed high blood pressure." "She is bedridden and so am I; neither of us can help the other. I went to the radio station to seek help, but it was unsuccessful. As I speak to you now, she is lying there, her life in God's hands. I left her in a critical state because the illness gets worse every day. That is all I can tell you, Malam Ibrahim," she concluded, breaking down into heart-wrenching tears. He asked, "So what kind of help do you need now? Is it from the government or influential people in this country?" She replied, "I need the government to help me, to look into our situation, to get justice for my daughter, and to help her get healthy. She is all I have left. For the sake of God and the Prophet, please help us." Ibrahim Khalil said, "Our viewers, you have heard the injustice done to this servant of God, the condition the girl is in, and how the legal case was neglected by the authorities. For God's sake, we call on the government and influential people to help this girl get medical care. Furthermore, a thorough investigation must be launched into this atrocity. The culprit must be found and prosecuted according to the law, so that anyone thinking of committing such a crime will be deterred. This will reduce such evils in the land. Finally, we pray to the Almighty to expose whoever committed this injustice." "We are still on our program, 'Caring for the Family.' Looking at the name of our show, let us care for our families regardless of our circumstances. Nowadays, we must guard humans more than livestock given the times we live in. This brings us to the end of the program. I am Ibrahim Khalil; stay with us next week, God willing. Peace be upon you." Mamah took a deep breath, wiping away the tears she had been shedding since the woman began her story. She felt deep pity for both the girl and the mother. "To think this is still happening... what a way to ruin a child's life!" "What heartless oppressor would do such a thing? And she went to the authorities, but they didn't take the investigation seriously. They just ignored the matter because they are poor and powerless. If no action is taken, rape cases will inevitably continue in this country, since the problems of the poor are treated as nothing." Her thoughts were interrupted when Ruky touched her shoulder and hugged her. Ruky burst into tears too. Mamah’s crying intensified seeing her "Auta" (last born), the brave Ruky, crying so emotionally. Anyone with a heart would shed tears hearing such a story. Ruky said, "Mama, listen to this lack of fear of God. Listen to the injustice done to this girl, yet the authorities ignored the case. Mama, isn't this why evil thrives? Because the poor aren't valued? And then, look at the illness she was left with. Mama, you know how hard that is to treat..." Ruky was choked up with sobs and fell silent. Mamah said, "I heard everything, Auta. Let them leave it to God. Insha Allah, whoever did this to that girl will never see peace in his life." Ruky looked up at Mamah’s words but remained silent. She knew if she told Mamah she was going to take on the case, Mamah wouldn't let her. It was better to stay quiet and let her find out later. She would never let this case go. She would use all her strength to investigate and find where that woman lived because justice must be served for the girl. Wiping her tears, she said, "Mama, let me go to work so I'm not late." Mamah said, "Alright Auta, see you when you return. But wipe your tears first; I don't want anyone looking down on my Auta." She said this with a smile, not wanting to see her daughter upset. Ruky forced a smile and said, "See you later, Mama." She said her goodbyes and went to the parking lot where the driver had already warmed up the car. She got in, acknowledged the greetings from the house staff, reversed out as the security guard opened the gate, and headed to work, her mind full of thoughts. ZARIA Sabon Gari, 11:25 am "Ameenah, where did you go? Tell me, or I swear I will beat you to death! Your husband came here saying he looked for you and couldn't find you. You left the house in the middle of the night after he scolded you for an offense, and you just walked out. He thought you came here, but you were nowhere to be found. Tell me where you’ve been for a whole month!" Baba shouted, approaching her as if to strike her. Ameenah backed away in terror, hiding behind Ummah. Crying and trembling, I said, "Baba, I swear what I told you is the truth! I was kidnapped, and I barely escaped. Nana is a witness; she and Ummah were there when the people who found me brought me home. You just weren't home that day to see them. And I swear, Baba, it was Kabiru who kicked me out in the middle of the night. I begged him to let me stay until morning, but he said it wasn't my father's house. He chased me out!" "Now you’re trying to tell me that between Kaduna (Rigasa) and ZARIA, you were kidnapped? Since when did a person become as easy to pick up as a bag of water? You’re lying! Kabiru would never kick you out. You know where you went!" Asabe, standing by the door prepping ingredients, chimed in mockingly, "Oh, Malam, why waste your time? A girl who has long been known for her wandering—you know where she goes. She's been doing this since she was little. It’s no surprise she stayed away for a month. If it wasn't for Kabiru covering her shame and marrying her, who do you think would take her? Why would a sensible boy like Kabiru kick her out? You saw how distraught he was when he came here looking for her. It turns out she had been gone for a week already. She never loved him, which is why she always offended him just to have an excuse to come home. Or maybe it’s not even her fault—maybe she’s being egged on not to stay married." "She knows where she went," Asabe concluded, throwing a pointed look at Ummah and Ameenah. Ummah, who had been weeping since Malam Auwalu (Ameenah’s father) refused to believe the story of Ameenah being found, was heartbroken. She wondered how a father could say such things about his daughter and start believing Asabe’s poison. Malam interrupted her thoughts, saying Ummah was the one encouraging Ameenah’s behavior. Asabe added, "Exactly! Look at how she’s hiding her behind her back right now to prevent her from being punished." Malam Auwalu said, "I’ve already called Kabiru to come. I swear she is going back to his house. I won't let her bring shame upon me." Ameenah collapsed, begging him not to send her back to Kabiru, insisting she was telling the truth. Malam Auwalu hissed and left the house. Ameenah hugged Ummah, crying, while Nana joined them. They couldn't believe their father wouldn't investigate the truth and instead listened to that hypocritical woman who hated them. As they went into the room, Baba Asabe continued her work, laughing and singing songs of mockery, happy to see her enemies in distress. SECURITY AGENCY: THE WOMEN POLICE This story is heart-touching... be with me, you will love it more than you expect. By Naja’atu Umar Farooq (Mrs. Sarakies) Season One, Episode 4 Ruky arrived at work and parked her car in the designated spot. She worked at the Headquarters in the investigation department. She walked with a composed and dignified gait. Officers like corporals and sergeants saluted her as she passed, as she held the rank of ASP. She acknowledged them briefly, but anyone could see something was bothering her. She reached her office, which she shared with two others. She sat at her desk, ignoring Shareef as he spoke to her. Shareef said, "Oh? Look at ASP Auta today—not even a word? Am I being ignored? Or is it just 'rank' talking today?" She looked at Shareef with her large, beautiful eyes. She gave him a playful glare. He said, "Your eyes look like you've been crying. Did that 'man' make you cry again? Let's take a squad and throw him in a cell! We won't allow anyone to make our officer cry." She smiled; Shareef couldn't stand seeing her upset and would always find a way to make her talk. She made a face and said, "Please stop. Who told you I was crying? Something just got in my eye and Mamah helped me get it out. Besides, who could make me cry? Never." Shareef, just wanting to distract her from her worries, said, "Alright then, the brave police officer!" She teased him back, and he laughed, asking about Mamah’s health. "She’s very well. She always asks about you since you haven't visited in a while." Shareef rubbed his head. "You know how busy we are. And you’re the one who gets all the breaks! We’re always working while you get a lot of leeway." She retorted, "You men can't compare yourselves to us. We are women, you are men." He joked, "I wish I were a woman so I didn't have to come in so early!" She was about to reply when she changed the subject: "Anyway, Shareef, what about that case? Did you go yesterday? I was too upset to stay." He replied, "The DCP said we’ll go to the neighborhood tomorrow to investigate." She sighed, "It's not good to keep people detained without a prompt investigation. I'll talk to the DCP so we can move on it." Shareef smiled. "If you talk to him, he won't refuse. You’re his favorite." He teased her again. She reached for a book to throw at him, but he dodged it and ran out laughing. She smiled and opened her laptop. She and Shareef had attended the Police Academy in Wudil together. He was also a relative—the son of Mamah’s older sister. They both held three stars (ASP rank), having recently been promoted due to their professional excellence. Her thoughts were interrupted by a call from her friend Hanan. Ruky smiled and answered, "ASP, how are you?" Hanan replied, "Fine, ASP to the First Lady!" Hanan explained they had just returned from Abuja after escorting the First Lady. Ruky commented on how nice that must be, but Hanan whispered, "What 'nice'? We’re like servants on the move constantly. You’re lucky; you stay in one place unless a case comes up." Ruky smiled. "You know how much work I actually do. You wouldn't wish to be me if you saw the stress." Hanan said they were heading to the Government House and she’d call later to discuss something. Ruky agreed and sent greetings to Mamah. By 5:30 pm, Ruky finished work and headed home. She found Mamah and the housemaid, Hasiya, chatting in the parlor. Ruky dropped her bag, loosened her uniform jacket, and leaned on Mamah’s shoulder. "I'm so tired, Mama." Mamah stroked her head. "I know, Auta. Welcome back." Hasiya also greeted her warmly. Ruky headed upstairs to shower. While applying her expensive lotion, her phone rang. Seeing the caller, her mood soured. She ignored it, finished getting ready in a light dress and a cap to tuck away her hair, and left the phone in the room. She knew if she took it downstairs and didn't answer, Mamah would make her pick up. The phone kept ringing as she left. Downstairs, she found Ya Hanaf greeting Mamah. He had clearly just arrived. "Ya Hanaf! When did you get here? Welcome!" He smiled. "Just now, Auta. Mamah said you just got back from work." They exchanged pleasantries about work and his journey. Ruky headed to the dining area. "Yaya, when you're done, come join me for dinner." He smiled and agreed. ZARIA "Baba, good afternoon." Baba was sitting in the courtyard and had ordered Ummah and the others into the room so he could talk to Kabiru. "Good afternoon, Kabiru," Baba replied with a smile. "You heard what I told you on the phone. Ameenah is back, but she claims you kicked her out." Kabiru, acting the part of a humble, righteous man, bowed his head. "Baba, I swear I didn't kick her out. She’s the one who pressured me to divorce her. She never loved me; she says she was forced into the marriage. That night, I hadn't even settled in when she insisted on leaving for her father's house in the middle of the night. I told her to wait until morning, but she refused. While I was in the bathroom, she disappeared. I assumed she came here." Baba, feeling heat in his chest from anger, said, "I knew she was lying! You would never kick her out. She knows where she really went." Asabe, listening from behind her door, was thrilled by Kabiru’s lies. Baba continued, "Let me call her to apologize. Please have patience and take her back. You know children these days require patience." Kabiru, happy that his lies were working and that no one was listening to Ameenah’s side, acted humble. "It's no problem, Baba. I understand." Baba then called out for Ameenah. In the room, Ummah, Nana, and I were sitting in silence. My heart was pounding. I knew Kabiru would lie, and I knew Baba would believe him without investigating. I was stunned to hear Kabiru tell Baba that I was the one who insisted on leaving and that I sneaked out while he was bathing. This was the man who beat me mercilessly and literally threw me out of his house! How could he tell such lies without shame? When would Baba see his true nature? Baba never noticed the bruises Kabiru left on me. I sat there in shock as Baba called me out to apologize to my oppressor and go back with him. I just cried, pitying myself. Nana was distressed, and Ummah was surely seething with silent anger. Then Asabe pushed the curtain aside with a wide, mocking grin. "Ameenah, aren't you coming out? Your father is calling you!"
The doctors are doing their best. Since she has been hiding this money, I took it to buy everything needed for her recovery. Once I saw her condition improve slightly, I went back to the division where I reported the assault against my daughter, and they said an investigation would be carried out.
The police officer assured me they were doing their best but were unable to identify the culprit. However, they promised to continue the investigation. I pleaded with them again in the name of God to help me, and they said, "Insha Allah" (God willing), they would. I then returned to the hospital.
Eventually, we were discharged. She is better now; she can sit up and doesn't cry when she urinates. But the situation is terrible because she has already been deeply harmed. We returned home, and I continued her care where the doctors left off. Yet, up until now, the security agents have done nothing. Every time I go there, they give me one excuse or another until I realized they weren't actually investigating. I surrendered everything to God, for He is the All-Hearing, All-Seeing, and He will judge the oppressor, as He neither commits nor supports injustice.
Ibrahim Khalil said, "I don't mean to interrupt, but servant of God, are you saying that after you went to that division, no one ever followed up with you regarding the girl? And you didn't take the complaint elsewhere, even though these officers gave no support to the investigation and there are no leads on the perpetrator?"
She gave a bitter smile and said, "No one followed up with us. And I didn't take the complaint elsewhere because I don't know my way around Kaduna very well. I only went to the division in our area." Ibrahim Khalil replied, "May God grant us success. We are listening."
She continued, "So we lived like that, and it seemed as though she was healing; about four or five months passed. But then, she started having a foul discharge from her private parts. I didn't have the money to take her back to the hospital, so I started scrambling to find work. I did laundry, I threshed grain, I did domestic work—there was no job I didn't take. I managed to scrape together enough to take her back."
"When we got there, they said she needed surgery that would cost a huge amount of money. They even said the surgery isn't performed in every state hospital in this country. Even for the scanning, they said it was very expensive. Malam Ibrahim, I have nothing. Her father is late; it's just me. We have no wealthy relatives; everyone is struggling on their own. They said they would give her some medications to calm the condition, but it wouldn't go away completely. I’m supposed to get her medicine every month, and the cost is more than I even have. I took what I could and we went home."
"While giving her the medicine, she seemed to get a bit better, but as soon as it ran out, the condition returned. I persevered in my work to buy her medicine. Malam Ibrahim, time passed, and eventually, I also fell ill from the hardship. I worked day and night without rest, and I developed high blood pressure."
"She is bedridden and so am I; neither of us can help the other. I went to the radio station to seek help, but it was unsuccessful. As I speak to you now, she is lying there, her life in God's hands. I left her in a critical state because the illness gets worse every day. That is all I can tell you, Malam Ibrahim," she concluded, breaking down into heart-wrenching tears.
He asked, "So what kind of help do you need now? Is it from the government or influential people in this country?" She replied, "I need the government to help me, to look into our situation, to get justice for my daughter, and to help her get healthy. She is all I have left. For the sake of God and the Prophet, please help us."
Ibrahim Khalil said, "Our viewers, you have heard the injustice done to this servant of God, the condition the girl is in, and how the legal case was neglected by the authorities. For God's sake, we call on the government and influential people to help this girl get medical care. Furthermore, a thorough investigation must be launched into this atrocity. The culprit must be found and prosecuted according to the law, so that anyone thinking of committing such a crime will be deterred. This will reduce such evils in the land. Finally, we pray to the Almighty to expose whoever committed this injustice."
"We are still on our program, 'Caring for the Family.' Looking at the name of our show, let us care for our families regardless of our circumstances. Nowadays, we must guard humans more than livestock given the times we live in. This brings us to the end of the program. I am Ibrahim Khalil; stay with us next week, God willing. Peace be upon you."
Mamah took a deep breath, wiping away the tears she had been shedding since the woman began her story. She felt deep pity for both the girl and the mother. "To think this is still happening... what a way to ruin a child's life!"
"What heartless oppressor would do such a thing? And she went to the authorities, but they didn't take the investigation seriously. They just ignored the matter because they are poor and powerless. If no action is taken, rape cases will inevitably continue in this country, since the problems of the poor are treated as nothing."
Her thoughts were interrupted when Ruky touched her shoulder and hugged her. Ruky burst into tears too. Mamah’s crying intensified seeing her "Auta" (last born), the brave Ruky, crying so emotionally. Anyone with a heart would shed tears hearing such a story. Ruky said, "Mama, listen to this lack of fear of God. Listen to the injustice done to this girl, yet the authorities ignored the case. Mama, isn't this why evil thrives? Because the poor aren't valued? And then, look at the illness she was left with. Mama, you know how hard that is to treat..." Ruky was choked up with sobs and fell silent. Mamah said, "I heard everything, Auta. Let them leave it to God. Insha Allah, whoever did this to that girl will never see peace in his life."
Ruky looked up at Mamah’s words but remained silent. She knew if she told Mamah she was going to take on the case, Mamah wouldn't let her. It was better to stay quiet and let her find out later. She would never let this case go. She would use all her strength to investigate and find where that woman lived because justice must be served for the girl. Wiping her tears, she said, "Mama, let me go to work so I'm not late." Mamah said, "Alright Auta, see you when you return. But wipe your tears first; I don't want anyone looking down on my Auta." She said this with a smile, not wanting to see her daughter upset. Ruky forced a smile and said, "See you later, Mama." She said her goodbyes and went to the parking lot where the driver had already warmed up the car. She got in, acknowledged the greetings from the house staff, reversed out as the security guard opened the gate, and headed to work, her mind full of thoughts.
ZARIA
Sabon Gari, 11:25 am
"Ameenah, where did you go? Tell me, or I swear I will beat you to death! Your husband came here saying he looked for you and couldn't find you. You left the house in the middle of the night after he scolded you for an offense, and you just walked out. He thought you came here, but you were nowhere to be found. Tell me where you’ve been for a whole month!" Baba shouted, approaching her as if to strike her. Ameenah backed away in terror, hiding behind Ummah.
Crying and trembling, I said, "Baba, I swear what I told you is the truth! I was kidnapped, and I barely escaped. Nana is a witness; she and Ummah were there when the people who found me brought me home. You just weren't home that day to see them. And I swear, Baba, it was Kabiru who kicked me out in the middle of the night. I begged him to let me stay until morning, but he said it wasn't my father's house. He chased me out!"
"Now you’re trying to tell me that between Kaduna (Rigasa) and ZARIA, you were kidnapped? Since when did a person become as easy to pick up as a bag of water? You’re lying! Kabiru would never kick you out. You know where you went!" Asabe, standing by the door prepping ingredients, chimed in mockingly, "Oh, Malam, why waste your time? A girl who has long been known for her wandering—you know where she goes. She's been doing this since she was little. It’s no surprise she stayed away for a month. If it wasn't for Kabiru covering her shame and marrying her, who do you think would take her? Why would a sensible boy like Kabiru kick her out? You saw how distraught he was when he came here looking for her. It turns out she had been gone for a week already. She never loved him, which is why she always offended him just to have an excuse to come home. Or maybe it’s not even her fault—maybe she’s being egged on not to stay married."
"She knows where she went," Asabe concluded, throwing a pointed look at Ummah and Ameenah. Ummah, who had been weeping since Malam Auwalu (Ameenah’s father) refused to believe the story of Ameenah being found, was heartbroken. She wondered how a father could say such things about his daughter and start believing Asabe’s poison. Malam interrupted her thoughts, saying Ummah was the one encouraging Ameenah’s behavior. Asabe added, "Exactly! Look at how she’s hiding her behind her back right now to prevent her from being punished." Malam Auwalu said, "I’ve already called Kabiru to come. I swear she is going back to his house. I won't let her bring shame upon me." Ameenah collapsed, begging him not to send her back to Kabiru, insisting she was telling the truth. Malam Auwalu hissed and left the house. Ameenah hugged Ummah, crying, while Nana joined them. They couldn't believe their father wouldn't investigate the truth and instead listened to that hypocritical woman who hated them. As they went into the room, Baba Asabe continued her work, laughing and singing songs of mockery, happy to see her enemies in distress.
SECURITY AGENCY: THE WOMEN POLICE
This story is heart-touching... be with me, you will love it more than you expect.
By Naja’atu Umar Farooq (Mrs. Sarakies)
Season One, Episode 4
Ruky arrived at work and parked her car in the designated spot. She worked at the Headquarters in the investigation department. She walked with a composed and dignified gait. Officers like corporals and sergeants saluted her as she passed, as she held the rank of ASP. She acknowledged them briefly, but anyone could see something was bothering her.
She reached her office, which she shared with two others. She sat at her desk, ignoring Shareef as he spoke to her. Shareef said, "Oh? Look at ASP Auta today—not even a word? Am I being ignored? Or is it just 'rank' talking today?"
She looked at Shareef with her large, beautiful eyes. She gave him a playful glare. He said, "Your eyes look like you've been crying. Did that 'man' make you cry again? Let's take a squad and throw him in a cell! We won't allow anyone to make our officer cry." She smiled; Shareef couldn't stand seeing her upset and would always find a way to make her talk. She made a face and said, "Please stop. Who told you I was crying? Something just got in my eye and Mamah helped me get it out. Besides, who could make me cry? Never." Shareef, just wanting to distract her from her worries, said, "Alright then, the brave police officer!" She teased him back, and he laughed, asking about Mamah’s health.
"She’s very well. She always asks about you since you haven't visited in a while." Shareef rubbed his head. "You know how busy we are. And you’re the one who gets all the breaks! We’re always working while you get a lot of leeway." She retorted, "You men can't compare yourselves to us. We are women, you are men." He joked, "I wish I were a woman so I didn't have to come in so early!" She was about to reply when she changed the subject: "Anyway, Shareef, what about that case? Did you go yesterday? I was too upset to stay." He replied, "The DCP said we’ll go to the neighborhood tomorrow to investigate." She sighed, "It's not good to keep people detained without a prompt investigation. I'll talk to the DCP so we can move on it." Shareef smiled. "If you talk to him, he won't refuse. You’re his favorite." He teased her again. She reached for a book to throw at him, but he dodged it and ran out laughing. She smiled and opened her laptop.
She and Shareef had attended the Police Academy in Wudil together. He was also a relative—the son of Mamah’s older sister. They both held three stars (ASP rank), having recently been promoted due to their professional excellence.
Her thoughts were interrupted by a call from her friend Hanan. Ruky smiled and answered, "ASP, how are you?" Hanan replied, "Fine, ASP to the First Lady!" Hanan explained they had just returned from Abuja after escorting the First Lady. Ruky commented on how nice that must be, but Hanan whispered, "What 'nice'? We’re like servants on the move constantly. You’re lucky; you stay in one place unless a case comes up."
Ruky smiled. "You know how much work I actually do. You wouldn't wish to be me if you saw the stress." Hanan said they were heading to the Government House and she’d call later to discuss something. Ruky agreed and sent greetings to Mamah.
By 5:30 pm, Ruky finished work and headed home. She found Mamah and the housemaid, Hasiya, chatting in the parlor. Ruky dropped her bag, loosened her uniform jacket, and leaned on Mamah’s shoulder. "I'm so tired, Mama." Mamah stroked her head. "I know, Auta. Welcome back." Hasiya also greeted her warmly.
Ruky headed upstairs to shower. While applying her expensive lotion, her phone rang. Seeing the caller, her mood soured. She ignored it, finished getting ready in a light dress and a cap to tuck away her hair, and left the phone in the room. She knew if she took it downstairs and didn't answer, Mamah would make her pick up. The phone kept ringing as she left.
Downstairs, she found Ya Hanaf greeting Mamah. He had clearly just arrived. "Ya Hanaf! When did you get here? Welcome!" He smiled. "Just now, Auta. Mamah said you just got back from work." They exchanged pleasantries about work and his journey. Ruky headed to the dining area. "Yaya, when you're done, come join me for dinner." He smiled and agreed.
ZARIA
"Baba, good afternoon." Baba was sitting in the courtyard and had ordered Ummah and the others into the room so he could talk to Kabiru. "Good afternoon, Kabiru," Baba replied with a smile. "You heard what I told you on the phone. Ameenah is back, but she claims you kicked her out." Kabiru, acting the part of a humble, righteous man, bowed his head. "Baba, I swear I didn't kick her out. She’s the one who pressured me to divorce her. She never loved me; she says she was forced into the marriage. That night, I hadn't even settled in when she insisted on leaving for her father's house in the middle of the night. I told her to wait until morning, but she refused. While I was in the bathroom, she disappeared. I assumed she came here."
Baba, feeling heat in his chest from anger, said, "I knew she was lying! You would never kick her out. She knows where she really went." Asabe, listening from behind her door, was thrilled by Kabiru’s lies. Baba continued, "Let me call her to apologize. Please have patience and take her back. You know children these days require patience." Kabiru, happy that his lies were working and that no one was listening to Ameenah’s side, acted humble. "It's no problem, Baba. I understand." Baba then called out for Ameenah.
In the room, Ummah, Nana, and I were sitting in silence. My heart was pounding. I knew Kabiru would lie, and I knew Baba would believe him without investigating. I was stunned to hear Kabiru tell Baba that I was the one who insisted on leaving and that I sneaked out while he was bathing. This was the man who beat me mercilessly and literally threw me out of his house! How could he tell such lies without shame? When would Baba see his true nature? Baba never noticed the bruises Kabiru left on me. I sat there in shock as Baba called me out to apologize to my oppressor and go back with him.
I just cried, pitying myself. Nana was distressed, and Ummah was surely seething with silent anger. Then Asabe pushed the curtain aside with a wide, mocking grin. "Ameenah, aren't you coming out? Your father is calling you!"