|POETIC INTRO|
I want to tell you a secret
I want to spill the truth
I want free my soul from this disarray
My fate lies in what my ears have heard
My heart shrank in paranoia and fear
My soul was suffocating in the deep water
My subconscious wounded in distress
So many things left unsaid
But in the end, I said a lot
They sat and wondered how come.
I sat and laughed; E shock you, abi?
_____________________________________
CHIEF BALOGUN RESIDENCE, BANANA ISLAND|
CHIEF BALOGUN
(He turns to Kate)
Your daughter has bitten off more than she can chew. I just hope she can handle what is coming next.
MR. A BALOGUN
Dad, can you just be straight with us?
BAYO
Isn't it obvious? Auntie Lolade is the vice president-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
(He sits on Chief's couch)
MRS. B BALOGUN
Bayo, shut up.
CHIEF BALOGUN
Why should he? It is the truth.
MRS. K BALOGUN
Are you saying AUG won the election?
CHIEF BALOGUN
We had three million votes ahead of them, but we couldn't meet the required twenty-five percent of all four major regions, including the federal capital.
(He gets up to leave)
BAYO
So what do we do, Grandpa?
"They all gaze at Chief"
CHIEF BALOGUN
Nothing.
MR. A BALOGUN
Nothing? Dad, stop kidding.
Please, this is a serious issue.
We all know you won't let it slide.
CHIEF BALOGUN
And that is what your sister wants.
She wants to see us bury our heads in shame and regret, and then somehow earn her respect.
To us, this is a struggle for power, but to Lolade, this is her own way of seeking validation from me.
MRS. K BALOGUN
So you will do nothing concerning the results?
CHIEF BALOGUN
(He smiles)
What can I do? It is what it is. Good night.
Do not forget to close my door when leaving.
(He walks out of the office)
TAIWO
I'm off to bed.
(He walks out of the office)
_____________________________________
LOLADE's RESIDENCE, LEKKI PHASE ONE|
"Lolade congratulations Mr Achebe on the phone "
LOLADE
(She laughs as she relaxes on her office chair)
Yes, oh my president. Finally, we did it!
They thought they could stop us, but little did they know.
(She switches her phone to her left ear as she gazes at Robert and Bisi walking into her office)
We had our own plans, and we certainly knew what we were doing. Alright, my president, let me call Mrs. Adesoji.
(She hangs up)
BISI
Congratulations, mummy!
(She hugs LOLADE in excitement)
LOLADE
Thank you, my love.
ROBERT
Congratulations, Mrs. Vice President.
LOLADE
You can say that again. Now I can relax.
(She turns to Bisi)
Where is your brother?
BISI
Where else but his room?
LOLADE
So he doesn't know he should come and congratulate his mother?
Nawa, this boy never seems to amaze me.
BISI
Mummy, relax. You know Olamide doesn't care about whether you win or not. And you shouldn't take it personally.
It's just OLAMIDE being his usual self.
LOLADE
I shouldn't take it personal? Why?
Why would a child not be happy for his mother?
Even if he is not interested, can't he pretend to care about me this once?
ROBERT
Lola, relax. Don't let Olamide's attitude spoil this moment for you. As I said before, give him time, he will come around. You know what? I have an idea to cheer you up. We have to toast to this.
BISI
Oh yes, we must. I will get some wine.
(She walks out of the office)
_____________________________________
THE ABIOLA's RESIDENCE|
"Gen Abiola walks into the sitting room"
Dr. SHADE
(She sits beside him)
I just saw the news.
I'm sorry about the election.
GEN ABIOLA
It's fine, my love.
I believe Chief will do something about it.
AYOOLA
How?
The results are already official, and I think you guys should just accept defeat and move on.
The NNC can't rule forever.
MR. F ABIOLA
(He turns to his younger sister)
Ayoola!
AYOOLA
What? I'm only saying the truth.
I know it's hard to accept, but it is what it is.
And if we want to be honest, we all know the AUG deserved the win. Those women worked their ass off during the campaign, so it's only right that we give what belongs to Caesar to Caesar.
Dr. SHADE
(She snaps)
Ayoola Abiola, that's enough!
You shouldn't be saying such things to your dad.
Do you know all the work they put in to make this work?
AYOOLA
I'm just airing my view, mummy.
Dr. SHADE
Now is not the time to air your view.
Who cares what you think?
AYOOLA
Hmm, nawa.
MR. F ABIOLA
(He turns to Ayoola)
Why do I feel like you are in support of the AUG party?
AYOOLA
Bro, we both know say I nor care about these una politics matter. All I care about is business and the company. I have told you before to quit this your politics nonsense and join me at the company.
MR. F ABIOLA
Ṣe o ya were?
Or do I look like your mate?
Watch your tongue, young lady.
AYOOLA
Ahh, sorry, Mr. Deputy Governor.
(She picks up her glass of wine)
Dr. SHADE
That's enough, both of you!
GEN ABIOLA
(He gets up to leave)
I will be in my chambers. I need to rest.
Dr. SHADE
Alright, dear, I will join you soon.
"Gen Abiola walks out of the scene"
AYOOLA
Mum, have you heard from Simi?
Dr. SHADE
We spoke yesterday. Why?
AYOLLA
Ahh, nothing oh.
Can't I miss my baby sister again?
Dr. SHADE
Then call her!
MR. F ABIOLA: This one they call person?
She only cares about the company.
AYOLLA
And you only care about politics.
When was the last time you called to check up on me?
MR. F ABIOLA
Why will I check up on a grown-up woman like you?
AYOLLA
Then don't call me a bad sister just because I'm too busy to check up on Simi.
MR. F ABIOLA
Then quit complaining about missing her!
Cause she's only a call away from you.
Dr. SHADE
Enough!!!
What has come over both of you this evening?
Must you find every opportunity to be on each other's throats? You are grown-ups, for God's sake, act like one
(She walks out of the sitting room)
_____________________________________
CHIEF BALOGUN's RESIDENCE, BANANA ISLAND|
"Mrs Aisha knocks on Chief Balogun's office door"
CHIEF BALOGUN
Come in
(He picks up his glass of coffee in front of him)
Mrs. AISHA
Good morning, Chief.
Breakfast is ready.
CHIEF BALOGUN
There would be no need for that.
I will be leaving for the company in a few minutes.
Nanny, you know the other maids can do all of this.
You shouldn't be stressing yourself at all
Ayo should have retired you a long time ago.
Mrs. AISHA
(She smiles)
I cannot quit my job, Chief.
Especially now that they are still trying to cope with Eniola's absence. They need me now more than ever.
CHIEF BALOGUN
They cannot hold on to you forever, and you are not getting any younger. Your body needs rest.
Mrs. AISHA
I'm fine, Chief.
I was hoping we could talk?
CHIEF BALOGUN
Of course, please sit.
Mrs. AISHA
Thank you
(She sits opposite Chief)
CHIEF BALOGUN
So, what is it that you want to talk about?
Mrs. AISHA
(Clears throat)
This is very personal to me, and I know you have your reasons for doing the things you do, but I cannot stay quiet anymore.
Your actions have caused the Adebayos a lot of pain, and I can't watch them go through all of this when I know I can talk to you about it.
CHIEF BALOGUN
The Adebayos are responsible for all that has happened to them, and I see no reason why you should care about your stepdaughter and her family . She is a product of your husband's shortcomings.
Mrs. AISHA
They are my family, Chief.
If you hurt them, you hurt me.
CHIEF BALOGUN
As long as they don't get in my way, they will be fine.
Tell your grandson to bring my granddaughter home and stay away from my family.
Mrs. AISHA
Hmm, why do you disapprove of Michael so much?
CHIEF BALOGUN
Because Temilade deserves better, and you know it, Nanny.
I care about you, and I don't think we should let this come between the strong relationship you have established with me and my family over the years.
Mrs. AISHA
I will do all I can to make sure they stay out of your way as long as you promise to let them be.
(She gets up to leave)
CHIEF BALOGUN
I am a man of my words.
Do you know where they are?
Mrs. AISHA
Pardon?
CHIEF BALOGUN
Your grandson and Temilade?
Mrs. AISHA: I don't, Chief.
I haven't heard from them since the demolition at Festac.
CHIEF BALOGUN
Hmm, alright.
You can go.
Mrs. AISHA
Thank you, Chief.
(She walks out of the room)
_____________________________________
"Ayo walks into the dining room"
TAIWO
E kaaro, sir
(He picks up his cutlery)
Mr. A BALOGUN
Where is your brother?
TAIWO
He left for work already.
How about your wife?
Mr. A BALOGUN
You mean your mother?
TAIWO
Dad, we both know she never saw me as a son.
Mr. A BALOGUN
Don't talk about her that way.
TAIWO
It is what it is, Dad.
Mr. A BALOGUN
Any news from Temi?
(He gazes at Taiwo)
TAIWO
No, sir. Can we eat now?
Mr. A BALOGUN
I know you and your brother know where she is.
And I understand why you must keep it from us.
TAIWO
Dad, I don't know where she is.
I thought we have had this conversation before?
Mr. A BALOGUN
No, we haven't. You had a conversation with your grandfather, now I'm talking to you man to man.
I'm asking you to trust me.
Have I ever let you down before?
I just want to know if she is fine, please.
TAIWO
She is fine!
Mr. A BALOGUN
Meaning you know where she is?
TAIWO
Maybe.
Mr. A BALOGUN
Taiwo, tell...
"Bisola walks into the dining"
Mrs. B BALOGUN
What are you guys talking about?
Mr. A BALOGUN
It's nothing, my love.
Come sit beside me.
Mrs. B BALOGUN
It didn't look like nothing.
(She turns to Taiwo)
Taiwo?
TAIWO
You don't have to know.
Mrs. B BALOGUN
Of course, I do. He is my husband.
TAIWO
And he is my father.
"Simi walks into the dining"
SIMI
E kaaro, sir.
E kaaro, Ma.
(She sits beside Taiwo)
Mr. A BALOGUN
(He changes the subject of conversation)
Simi, how are you?
You look so beautiful this morning.
What is the occasion?
SIMI
Thank you, sir.
I will be spending some time with my sister today.
She will be coming over.
Mr. A BALOGUN
Wow, that is nice.
You seemed so excited about it.
SIMI: Oh yes, I am.
I miss her a lot, even though she can be bossy at times.
TAIWO
I will be leaving for work now.
(He gets up to leave)
Mrs. B BALOGUN
Of course, you should.
Your brother left so early today.
Mr. A BALOGUN
Bisola!
TAIWO
See you later, Dad.
(He turns to Simi and kisses her)
I will call you later in the day.
(He walks out of the scene)
_____________________________________
Mrs ADESOJI's RESIDENCE, VICTORIA ISLAND LAGOS|
"Stella walks into Mrs. Adesoji's Office"
STELLA
Good morning, Mummy. Congratulations.
(She hugs Mrs. Adesoji)
Mrs. ADESOJI
Thank you, my love.
How was your night?
STELLA
Very fine.
I dreamt of UNILAG.
Mrs. ADESOJI
Wow, are you serious?
(She plays along with her manipulation)
STELLA
Yes, oh.
Mrs. ADESOJI
Why do you love that school?
STELLA
It's close to home, and I get to be around an environment that I can relate to. Overseas can be very lonely. I have no social life over there.
"Tony walks into the office"
TONY
You do not need a social life to pass with good grades.
STELLA
(She turns to Tony)
Really, bro? I thought you were on my side?
TONY
I am.
That is why I have convinced Mom to let you transfer to UNILAG.
STELLA
(She turns to Mrs. Adesoji)
Mum, is that true?
Mrs. ADESOJI
Yes, dear, but there are some rules which you must follow.
We will talk about them when I'm back later today.
STELLA
I love you, Mum. Thank you.
(She hugs Mrs. Adesoji in excitement)
_____________________________________
FESTAC OIL AND GAS, YABA, LAGOS|
"Bayo walks into Taiwo's office."
TAIWO
(He flips through the pages of some documents brought in earlier by his secretary)
Why are you here, Bayo?
BAYO
(He sits and puts his legs on Taiwo's desk)
I was around the neighborhood to see a business client, so I thought maybe I could check on my brother and see how I can help since he would never ask an expert in the business.
(He puts a cigarette in between his lips)
TAIWO
What makes you think I would come to you if I need help?
That would be me giving you an unnecessary platform to boss me around.
BAYO
Well, it is what it is, bro.
I know what you don't.
(He lights his cigarette)
TAIWO
Coming from a man who hasn't closed a deal ever since Grandpa brought me into the company.
Don't flatter yourself, Bayo.
(He drops the document and picks up another)
BAYO
I have closed deals worth billions of naira long before you came into the business.
Don't let your one-time deal with that Agnis person get to your head.
TAIWO:
You are the one assuming such nonsense.
Can you find something to do and let me be?
BAYO
What?
Don't tell me you find my presence intimidating?
TAIWO
Hmm.
(He walks up to the refrigerator in his office for a glass of water)
BAYO
By the way, don't you think it's a matter of time before Grandpa figures out the whereabouts of Temi?
TAIWO
Seems someone is scared of what Grandpa might do if he figures out he was involved.
BAYO
Well, I have always been the good kid.
This is the first time I kept something this important from him.
You, on the other hand, are used to rebelling and acting outside Grandpa's wishes.
TAIWO
(He sits on one of the couches)
Are you the good kid or Grandpa's little robot?
BAYO
And what's that supposed to mean?
TAIWO
Figure it out, brother.
(He picks up his jacket from the chair)
Turn off the lights when leaving.
BAYO
Where are you going?
TAIWO
I have to bring some things to Temi.
Oh, before I forget, I told Dad about Temi's whereabouts.
BAYO
You did what?
What's your problem, Taiwo?
TAIWO
Relax, he promised not to spill.
Are you coming with me or not?
BAYO
(He drops the burnt off cigarette in the dustbin)
Fine, let's go. I won't let you make me look like the uncaring brother.
(He walks out of the office alongside Taiwo)
_____________________________________
Mr. ACHEBE, RESIDENCE, ABUJA|
"Mrs. Achebe hugs Mr. Achebe in excitement."
MRS ACHEBE
Congratulations, my husband.
Finally, your dreams are coming to pass.
MR. ACHEBE: We thank God almighty
(He drops his tired body on one of the couches in the sitting room)
ADOBI
(She rushes into the sitting room)
Where is my president?
(She jumps on Mr. Achebe's body, engaging him in a tight hug) Congratulations, Daddy! Finally!
MR. ACHEBE
Thank you, my love. (
He smiles at Adobi)
MRS. ACHEBE
So when are we moving to Asu Rock?
"Adobi Laughs alongside Mr. Achebe"
ADOBI
Mummy!
(She says in between laughter)
MRS. ACHEBE
Kedu ihe ọ bụ?
Why the laughter, na ?
MR. ACHEBE
Calm down.
This woman, you won't kill me with laughter one day.
ADOBI
Nor be only Asu Rock.
MRS. ACHEBE
I still don't understand why both of you are laughing.
ADOBI
It's not yet the 29th of November.
The current president has to complete his tenure of office.
MRS. ACHEBE
And how was I supposed to know that?
ADOBI
Everyone should know that, Mummy.
Who doesn't know about that?
MRS. ACHEBE
(She snaps)
So you are calling me an idiot because I don't know!
MR. ACHEBE
Ahh, no. She never said so.
MRS. ACHEBE
(She turns to Mr. Achebe)
Of course, you will defend her.
Thank you for making a fool out of me.
ADOBI
Mummy, you are overreacting.
II never implied that.
MRS. ACHEBE
Shut up your mouth!
I don't blame either of you.
(She hisses and walks out of the scene in anger)
"Mr. Achebe and Adobi continue laughing."
_____________________________________
Mr. OBI's RESIDENCE, IKOYI, LAGOS|
"Mrs. Obi walks into the sitting room."
MR. OBI
How is my beautiful wife doing this evening?
MRS. OBI
I'm not fine, oh.
MR. OBI
Ahh, what is the problem?
(He drops his widescreen on the couch and gazes at Mrs. Obi)
MRS. OBI
Chidi hasn't been himself since the election results were announced. I have told him it won't affect your deal with Chief because we played our part.
MR. OBI
So what is there to worry about since you have reassured him?
MRS. OBI
I'm still worried. Temi is missing, and Chief hasn't done anything about it. Left to me, I don't even want that girl for him.
It's obvious she doesn't want him, but Chidi won't listen.
MR. OBI
It doesn't matter what she wants. She must marry Chidi.
MRS. OBI
But the girl doesn't want him, na.
I know how it feels to be rejected that's why I don't want her for him.
MR. OBI
Who cares about how she feels about him?
When you married me, were you crazy about me?
MRS. OBI
But that was then, na. During our time, traditions didn't care about feelings.
But it's different now. How many people consent to arranged marriages again?
MR. OBI
You worry too much, woman. If it worked for us, it will work for my son. He is our only child. I won't die knowing that he is unhappy. So if Temilade is what he wants, I will do everything in my power to make that happen. Besides, they are a perfect match since we are major shareholders of the hospital. Both of them can run it as a power couple.
MRS. OBI
And you think Dr. Akande will give up his position in the hospital?
MR. OBI
He has no choice. He has no heir.
He didn't remarry after his wife passed away years ago.
MRS. OBI
Hmm, alright if you say so.
MR. OBI
Where is your son, by the way?
MRS. OBI
He should be sleeping.
He's on evening duty at the hospital today.
MR. OBI
(He picks up his glass of whiskey)
I wonder why he still works there.
I offered to talk to Chief to transfer him to one of the elite branches, but Chidi insisted on staying there.
MRS. OBI
(She smiles)
Isn't it obvious?
He wants to be around that Temi. Let me wake him up so that he can prepare for work
(She walks out of the sitting room)
_____________________________________
ADEBISI's RESIDENCE, FESTAC|
"Taiwo walks into Temilade's room."
TEMI
Hey.
(She hugs Taiwo)
TAIWO
How are you?
TEMI
I'm good.
Did you come with the stuff?
TAIWO
Oh yes, I did.
(He drops a white bag on her bed)
I came with a surprise. Don't freak out.
(He smiles at Temi)
TEMI
What is that?
(She appears curious and paranoid)
"Ayo walks into the room alongside Maria."
MR. A BALOGUN
Temilade Balogun, do you want to kill me before my time?
(He said in a soft tone)
TEMI
((She hugs Ayo as tears stream down her eyes)
Daddy, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. I just did what was best for me. Grandpa won't let me be.
(She sits on the edge of her bed)
Maria, how are you?
MARIA
I'm fine, ma'am.
TAIWO
(He turns to Ayo)
Alright, I will leave you and your favorite child to bond.
(He walks out of the room)
MARIA
Let me check on Onyinye and the others.
(She walks out of the room)
MR. A BALOGUN
(He sits beside Temi)
I'm sorry, my baby. I know your grandfather can be heartless sometimes, but I want you to remember that although his actions are inhuman at times, they come from a place of love.
That man loves you more than anything in this world. He may express that in a weird way, but you and I know you are the most special of all his grandchildren.
TEMI
I don't know what to think anymore. Sometimes he just gives me reasons to hate him.
(She folds her hands)
MR. A BALOGUN
Temilade, don't talk that way, na.
Don't worry, I'll talk to him about this.
TEMI
No, don't. Daddy, please, don't tell him I'm here.
He won't let me be.
MR. A BALOGUN
I won't, but you know your absence is getting others worried, especially your mom and grandmother.
TEMI
Abeg, Mom should leave me alone. It's not like she cares much.
You can tell Granny because I know she's on my side.
MR. A BALOGUN
Temi, oh.
TEMI
What? I'm saying the truth, na.
Besides, there is something I want to tell you, but please don't freak out. It's good news, but I don't know how you might take it.
MR. A BALOGUN
When am I expecting my grandchild?
TEMI
How did you...?
MR. A BALOGUN
Your sudden cravings, unnecessary mood swings. You even said some unbelievable things to your grandfather.
TEMI
I'm sorry, Dad.
I know you you expected better from your favorite girl
MR. A BALOGUN
It's fine, dear. As long as he takes responsibility for the child and you are happy.
(He gets up) today was hectic for but before I leave, I want to see Michael and Miss Agnis.
TEMI
Alright, I will take you to them.
MR. A BALOGUN
Don't worry, you should rest.
I will find them myself.
_____________________________________
"Bayo's eyes fixated on Awelle as she peacefully slumbered."
BAYO
(He whispers to Dr. Cara)
How is she?
DR. CARA
She's doing fine.
BAYO
When do you think she'll be able to walk again?
DR. CARA
Give it two weeks, and she should be able to grip onto crutches. In a month or two, she'll be taking her first steps.
BAYO
Is her condition really that serious?
DR. CARA
Honestly, yes. I've suggested to Miss Agnis that Awelle undergo surgery.
It would greatly aid her recovery by replacing some of the damaged bones.
BAYO
Surgery?
Won't that be incredibly painful for a young girl like her?
I mean, how much pain can she bear?
DR. CARA
It won't be a walk in the park, that's for sure.
But it's necessary for her well-being and long-term mobility.
BAYO
(Glancing at Awelle's peaceful face)
Well, if it's for the best.
"Suddenly, Awelle stirs and opens her eyes, catching Bayo off guard. He tries to casually walk away."
AWELLE
Hey, you!
What are you doing here?
BAYO
(Playing innocence)
Oh, just checking in on my little sister.
Thought I'd pay her a visit.
AWELLE
(Raising an eyebrow)
Really?
Does this look like her room to you?
Did you get lost or something?
BAYO
Lost?
Me?
No wa I'm not stupid like you are
AWELLE
Maybe you're here because you secretly care about me.
BAYO
(Rolling his eyes)
Please, as if I'd care about a bratty little kid like you.
AWELLE
(Mischievously) Well, well, well. Look at that reaction.
It seems I hit a nerve, didn't I?
BAYO
You're just an annoying little pest.
Where the hell did you learn those words from?
"Out of the blue, Awelle clutches her leg and lets out a dramatic scream."
AWELLE
(In mock agony)
Oh no, my leg! It hurts so much!
DR. CARA
(Rushing over)
What's happening?
BAYO
(Panicking)
Are you okay? What's wrong?
AWELLE
(Bursting into laughter)
Gotcha! I was just fooling around.
I thought you didn't care.
BAYO
(Relieved and frustrated)
You little troublemaker!
I hate you .
AWELLE
I don't like you too
It's payback for underestimating me.
BAYO
Fine, you win this round.
You started this
"Awelle laughs out loud"
_____________________________________
CHIEF BALOGUN's RESIDENCE, BANANA ISLAND|
"Lolade bursts into the sitting room, brimming with excitement."
LOLADE
Nanny! Barka da yamma!
(She embraces Mrs. Aisha tightly, showing off her improved Hausa language skills)
MRS. AISHA
Ahh, look at my baby girl!
It seems your Hausa has really improved.
Congratulations, my little vice president.
LOLADE
You can say that again!
(She spins around in excitement)
MRS. AISHA
Where are the children?
Don't tell me you didn't bring them along?
LOLADE
No, I didn't. I was just roaming around the neighborhood and thought I'd stop by to say hi.
So, where is that old man?
MRS. AISHA
Lolade, don't speak of your father in such a manner.
LOLADE
What? Isn't he old?
MRS. AISHA
Your dear father is in his office.
LOLADE
Alright then
(She confidently struts out of the scene)
_____________________________________
"Lolade confidently strides into Chief Balogun's office."
CHIEF BALOGUN
You know, your actions have become too predictable these days. You should work on that. I thought I taught you better
(He smiles at Lolade)
LOLADE
Is that how you talk to your Vice President?
(She smiles back)
E shock you abi?
I told you, Dad, I was born for this.
CHIEF BALOGUN
(He pours whiskey into two glasses)
Let's toast to that. (He slides one of the glasses towards her)
LOLADE
How does it feel to be a loser?
CHIEF BALOGUN
Wow, this tastes nice. By the way, you should stay for dinner. Hopefully, your nephews and brother will be back soon.
LOLADE
I know it hurts, Dad. Admit it.
CHIEF BALOGUN
Did you bring my Bisi and Olamide with you? It's been a while since I last saw them.
LOLADE
Why are you avoiding the topic of conversation?
CHIEF BALOGUN
Why are you here?
LOLADE
To watch you tremble in fear.
CHIEF BALOGUN
(He laughs)
Have you seen your mom?
She mentioned that you don't check up on her these days.
LOLADE
Dad!
CHIEF BALOGUN
Lolade, although you might have won the election, we both know that you are nothing without my validation.
LOLADE
Who said I need your validation?
CHIEF BALOGUN
(He takes a sip of his whiskey)
Then why are you here?
LOLADE
(She disregards the question)
I'll go check on Mom.
(She exits the office)
____________________________________________________________
"Mrs Aisha welcomes the Okafor's into the residence."
Mrs AISHA
Hope, your parents here
(She calls out)
HOPE
Mummy!
(She hugs Mrs. Okafor)
Mrs OKAFOR
How are you, my baby?
HOPE
I'm fine.
I missed you and Daddy
Mr OKAFOR
We missed you too, my love.
(He turns to Mrs. Aisha)
Chief asked us to see him.
Mrs AISHA
Oh yes, come this way, please.
(She leads them to Chief's office)
"Mr. and Mrs. Okafor enter Chief's office leaving Hope with Mrs Aisha"
Mr OKAFOR
Good evening, Chief.
You requested our presence.
CHIEF BALOGUN
Yes, I did. Please, have a seat.
"They both sit."
Mrs OKAFOR
Sir, is there something wrong?
CHIEF BALOGUN
It's nothing much. I just wanted to appreciate your effort and the kindness you showed my late granddaughter.
(He places a signed check in front of Mr. Okafor)
That is fifty million Naira
We want full custody of Hope.
Mr OKAFOR
What?!
Mrs OKAFOR
Our daughter is not for sale, Chief.
(She pushes the check back towards Chief)
CHIEF BALOGUN
(He smiles)
She is a Balogun. She belongs to us.
Mrs OKAFOR
She is my daughter, and she belongs to herself!
Who the hell are you to claim ownership of a life that isn't yours?
Mr OKAFOR
(He turns to Mrs. Okafor)
Calm down.
(He turns to Chief)
Chief, what you are asking of us is unfair. We may not be able to give her the life that you can, but please don't take her away from us. We can cope with joint custody, but please don't take her away from us.
CHIEF BALOGUN
How about a hundred million?
Would that do?
Mrs OKAFOR
A hundred million kill you there!
Nwoke ara! We are not selling our child to you.
Mr OKAFOR
Chief, I can't believe this is coming from you.
Why are you doing this to us? All we want is to be with our daughter. Chief, please.
(He falls to his knees)
CHIEF BALOGUN
There is nothing I can do. She doesn't belong in your world.
So, it's either you take the money and walk away, or you walk away regardless.
If I were you, I wouldn't want to lose on both ends.
Mrs OKAFOR
You are a wicked man! You can go to hell with your money.
We will see you in court.
(She walks out of the office)
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ADEBISI's RESIDENCE, FESTAC|
"Ayo walks into Adebisi's office."
Mr A BALOGUN
Hello!
(He notices the room is quiet)
Where could she be?
(He sits on one of the chairs opposite her executive office chair, his eyes scanning the room)
Well, not bad.
(His gaze falls upon a picture on the table, and he picks it up out of curiosity)
No, it can't be.
Why does she have this?
(He gazes at a mini portrait of himself, Adebisi, and a young Taiwo)
"Adebisi walks into the room, sensing the tension."
ADEBISI
Mr. Governor, I heard you were looking for me.
Mr A BALOGUN
(His voice filled with intensity)
Why do you have this?
(He shows the portrait to her, his eyes locked on her face, searching for answers)
"Adebisi is caught in a moment of shock, her words momentarily failing her. The air in the room grows heavy with anticipation."
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