|POETIC INTRO|
It's a no-brainer that it mattered after death
For we value not their presence
As it's evident in their absence
You stole a soul from souls
Just to save a soul who had sinned against souls
The end justifies the means and it's a no-brainer
Wrong is wrong just as black is black
But I see it not from your sight
So I seize to speak from my sight
___________________________________
|ADEBISI's RESIDENCE, FESTAC|
"Lolade walks into Adebisi's Home Office "
ADEBISI:
I didn't believe it when I was told Lolade Balogun is at my residence.
LOLADE:
And I'm surprised to see that you welcomed me. I was told you are a very private individual who is extremely socially picky.
ADEBISI:
I am what you have been told I am, but I see no reason to turn you down. Please sit.
(Points at the chair opposite her)
LOLADE:
(Sits opposite Adebisi with a smile)
Thank you.
ADEBISI:
So, what brings you to my residence at this time of the day?
LOLADE:
Won't you offer me something to drink?
ADEBISI:
Forgive my lack of hospitality.
(She walks to the wine bar adjacent to her office desk.)
LOLADE:
Well, I will be brief and straightforward because I know you are as busy as I am.
ADEBISI:
So, what brings you here?
(Turns some of the wine into two glasses)
LOLADE:
Do you have something against my Father?
ADEBISI:
Why would you ask that? As far as I know, you and your father have never found common ground, so I find it disturbing that you make him the center of interest here.
LOLADE:
Why did you help my mother take the company from him? Why are you interested in our family?
ADEBISI:
Your mother only asked me for a favor. She wished that I let her buy shares in my name, and I saw no reason to deny her of that as it was also beneficial to me too. I'm a businesswoman, Lolade, so don't take it personally.
LOLADE:
(picks up the glass of wine in front of her)
Suppose I consider that a coincidence, how would you explain your sudden interest in Soji's Oil, my brother, and niece?
ADEBISI:
(sips her glass of wine)
Did you come here to interrogate me? Because I do not understand.
LOLADE:
I'm just curious because the side you are on is very important to me. Because I'm certain there are a lot of things I can make easier for you if you are on my side, but first, I need to know your motive and the why behind your interest in our family.
(sips her glass of wine)
ADEBISI:
Business, my dear. Who wouldn't want to dine with a family as prestigious as the Baloguns?
LOLADE:
Which side are you on?
ADEBISI:
Whatever side is beneficial to me.
LOLADE:
As of the moment, I am the acting president of the country, and I can assure you that it will be beneficial to me on my side. But first, you must do something for me.
ADEBISI:
Hmm, what would that be?
LOLADE:
Give up your shares in Soji's Oil.
_____________________________________
|REMOTE DUPLEX, SURULERE|
"Taiwo falls to the ground as he places both his hands on his bleeding stomach"
SIMI:
Taiwo!
(screams out and rushes to him)
BAYO:
(Grabs Simi by the arm)
Simi, you have to leave now. This is the only chance you've got.
SIMI:
(Applies pressure to Taiwo's bleeding wound)
Are you serious? So we are just going to abandon Taiwo here?
AYOOLA:
Yes, we are! He was the one who came here with a gun, so obviously he would have killed you too. This is a no-brainer, Simi; you don't have to think twice about abandoning him.
BAYO:
(His hands are trembling)
Simi, please listen to Ayoola. Don't worry; I will get Taiwo to the hospital myself.
SIMI:
No, I can't leave him here.
(Turns to Taiwo as tears gush down her cheeks) Taiwo, can you hear me? I'm sorry; please stay with me.
AYOOLA:
Simi, we have to go!
SIMI:
I'm not going anywhere!
(turns to Bayo)
Let's take him to the hospital now!
AYOOLA:
No! You are leaving the country now; don't you get it? This might be your only opportunity to escape. Simi, e jor, listen to me.
SIMI:
Bayo, now!
(Bayo lifts Taiwo from the ground)
AYOOLA:
Simi, please, we have to leave now.
SIMI:
I'm sorry, Ayoola, but I can't.
(She assists Bayo in getting Taiwo into the car).
_____________________________________
|ADEBISI's RESIDENCE, FESTAC|
"Adebisi smiles as she drops her empty glass of wine on the table"
ADEBISI:
And why would I do that?
LOLADE:
Because I will give you something bigger and better. I invested a lot in Soji's oil. The Adesoji and I tend to keep the company to ourselves.
ADEBISI:
I'm sorry; I can't do that. This is business, Lolade. As a matter of fact, I had the intention of buying the Adesoji's shares. And you know both of you need me for that company to stay alive.
LOLADE:
So I will take that as a rejection of my offer?
ADEBISI:
Clearly, it is. I'm not interested in whatever your offers are. I can't let go of my shares, and I must pre-inform you; I will be stepping in soon, or else that Tony of a person will bring that company to the ground.
LOLADE:
Hmm, if I were you, I would listen to me.
ADEBISI:
(Smiles at Lolade)
But I'm not you, right?
LOLADE:
Right, you ain't. But remember, this is Nigeria; you are in my territory.
ADEBISI:
Did Lolade Balogun just threaten me?
"Michael Walks into the room furiously"
MICHAEL:
Ma, we need to talk.
ADEBISI:
What is it?
(Notices the fear on Michael's face)
Are you fine?
What is it, Michael? Talk to me.
MICHAEL:
It's Temilade.
LOLADE:
(Turns to Michael)
What happened to Temilade?
MICHAEL:
;Turns to Adebisi)
Can I speak to you alone?
LOLADE:
No, you can't! Temi is my niece; I have the right to know!
ADEBISI:
Michael, what is going on?
MICHAEL:
Temi has been kidnapped.
She was taken by some men.
ADEBISI:
What? How?
LOLADE:
What exactly happened?
ADEBISI:
(Her phone rings)
Hello.
_____________________________________
|BAPTIST CENTRAL HOSPITAL, SURURELE|
"Simi paces around the waiting room"
BAYO:
Simi, you have to leave now. I have done as you have asked.
SIMI:
(Turns to Bayo)
I am not leaving my husband until I know he is fine.
BAYO:
Your husband?
Do you ever realize the mess we are in now? I didn't risk my life for this. Don't you get it yet? Taiwo never loved you and will never love you.
AYOOLA:
Simi, you have to listen to Bayo, please.
A lot of eyes have been on us; obviously, someone will inform the high authorities that you are here.
SIMI:
Guys, I appreciate that you are trying to protect me, but I can't leave, at least not until I know he is fine.
AYOOLA:
I get you, Simi, but you have to think about yourself first. Think about Mom and Dad; it will break them if you get caught.
You can't go to jail! I won't allow it.
SIMI:
Then get me the best lawyer because I am not running again.
BAYO:
Never did I imagine that you would be this foolish.
CHIEF BALOGUN:
Where is my Grandson?
BAYO:
(Turns to Chief)
Grandpa, what are you guys doing here?
Mr. A BALOGUN:
Where is your brother?
CHIEF BALOGUN:
(Turns to the two disguised policemen beside him) Arrest her!
(Points to Simi)
AYOOLA:
Sir, please do not do this.
(Falls on her knees)
Police 1:
Simisola Abiola, you are under arrest for the murder of Late Mrs. Ashia.
Police 2:
You have the right to remain silent; everything you say can and will be used against you in the court of law.
AYOOLA:
No, let her go.
"Doctor walks into the room"
Mr. A BALOGUN:
Doctor, how is my son?
DOCTOR:
(Turns to Bayo)
His Excellency is the patient's father?
Mrs. B BALOGUN:
Doctor, you were asked a question!
How is Taiwo?
DOCTOR:
The surgery was a success, Sir. He is a very lucky man. (Smiles at Chief and Ayo)
SIMI:
Thank God!
(Tears roll down her eyes)
CHIEF BALOGUN:
(Turns to Bayo)
Now would you tell me what really happened? How did a bullet end up in your brother?
BAYO:
Grandpa, it's not what you think. Please hear me out.
Mr. A BALOGUN:
Did you do this?
Mrs. B BALOGUN:
No, my son wouldn't do such. Don't accuse him unnecessarily. Let's hear him out first.
DOCTOR:
As a matter of fact, this young man here saved his life.
SIMI:
I did it. It was an accident; we were fighting, and I mistakenly pulled the trigger.
AYOOLA:
No! That was not what happened.
(Turns to Bayo)
Bayo, say something!
BAYO:
You heard her, right?
I didn't do it. She did.
Police 1:
(Turns to Ayoola and Bayo)
Both of you will have to come with us for questioning.
_____________________________________
| Mrs ADESOJI's RESIDENCE, VICTORIA ISLAND|
"Tony is lost in thoughts as he consoles his guilt with a bottle of beer"
DANIEL:
Alcohol won't take away the memories of what you did, Tony.
TONY:
(Turns to Daniel)
When will you get over this obsession? I have told you times without number that I had nothing to do with the death of Stella.
"Mrs. Adesoji eavesdrops on their conversation"
DANIEL:
That's a lie! And you know it. Tell Mother what you have done, or you will never find peace.
TONY:
What is your problem, Daniel? I have told you times without number, I had nothing to do with her death. Why the hell would I take my own sister's life?
DANIEL:
She knew all your dirty secrets, like how you killed Chinaza, and you know there is no way she would keep her mouth shut. So you did the needful.
TONY:
Are you on something?
Tell me how I can help you, bro. Trust me, drugs will destroy you.
DANIEL:
You can pretend all you want.
(walks out of the scene)
"Tony throws the beer bottle across the room out of frustration"
_____________________________________
|ADEBISI's RESIDENCE, FESTAC|
"She picks up her car key"
Mrs. K BALOGUN:
Where are you going?
ADEBISI:
I have to know for sure that my son is fine. I can't wait any longer.
Mrs. K BALOGUN:
No, you can't risk your identity out there. Ayo specifically said you should wait until tomorrow.
ADEBISI:
But I can't wait! I want to see my son; I don't care who finds out who I am.
Mrs. ADEBAYO:
(Turns to Adebisi)
Please listen to her. Obviously, Chief and others would be there; it's too risky.
ADEBISI:
Hmm, I have heard.
(Turns to Michael)
Any news on Temi?
MICHAEL:
No.
Mrs. K BALOGUN:
But why would anybody want to kidnap Temilade?
MICHAEL:
I can only think of one person who would do this. That Dr. Chidi needs to be brought in for questioning. (Picks up his jacket)
I have to go to the station; Chidi must be brought in for questioning.
Mrs. K BALOGUN:
Relax, Michael.
You can't just bring an Obi in for questioning. Leave this for Chief and me. The Obis are very powerful people; we cannot underestimate them.
MICHAEL:
So all I can do is sit here and wait?
Mrs. K BALOGUN:
Exactly.
(Picks up her bag)
I will be leaving for the hospital now. Then I would find a convenient way to break the news about Temi's disappearance to others.
(Turns to Mrs. Adebayo)
Please make sure they don't leave the house this night.
_____________________________________
| A REMOTE VILLA, APAPA, LAGOS|
"Temi gently open her eyes as she feels a sharp pain on her stomach"
Dr. CHIDI:
Good morning, love.
(Drops a tray of food on the bed)
TEMI:
(She pulls back out of shock)
Why am I here?
Dr. CHIDI:
This is where you should be. Right beside me. We will build a happy home together.
TEMI:
No! Chidi, please let me go. (Tears roll down her cheeks)
Dr. CHIDI: I love you, Temilade. I can't let you go.
TEMI:
I know you do, but they don't force love, na. I don't feel the same way for you, please try and understand.
Dr. CHIDI:
Give it time; you will learn to love me. Because I am the one for you. Not that poor, low-class rat.
TEMI:
That low-class rat is the father of my unborn child and the man I love.
Dr. CHIDI:
(Drops his right hand palm on Temi's cheek)
No, he isn't. I will make sure you never have this child.
TEMI:
(Temi holds on to her stomach as she fights the pain) Chidi, please. What have I done to you?
Dr. CHIDI:
You should have chosen me when you had the chance to.
TEMI:
What do you plan to do with me?
Dr. CHIDI:
I will marry you, find a way to sneak us out of the country, and then we will live happily ever after. (Smiles at Temi)
_____________________________________
|GEN ABIOLA's RESIDENCE|
"Ayoola walks into the residence"
Dr. SHADE:
(Rushes to Ayoola)
Where have you been? Was your sister able to leave the country?
"Femi walks into the room"
Mr. F ABIOLA:
No, she wasn't. I just got a call from Ayo; she was brought into custody last night.
(Turns to Ayoola)
What happened?
I thought you said you found a way out of this.
AYOOLA:
We did, but Taiwo found us somehow.
Dr. SHADE:
What!
AYOOLA:
Yes, and accidentally he was shot by Bayo. Simi refused to leave, knowing that Taiwo's life was in danger.
Mr. F ABIOLA:
(Turns to Gen Abiola)
What do we do, Dad? This isn't good for our publicity. People will soon begin to talk; we have to find a way to get her out of this mess.
GEN ABIOLA:
I don't know, Son. This will be very difficult because she has been brought into custody. And I'm certain she will confess to the crimes.
AYOOLA:
We have to shut her up, Daddy, till we find a way out of this. Dad, please, you have to find a way.
GEN ABIOLA:
Hmm, Simi brought this on herself.
Dr. SHADE:
And so what? Does that mean we should let her rot there? Oko mi, jowo. We have to do something.
GEN ABIOLA:
Fine!
(Turns to Femi)
Femi, try and talk with your friend, Ayo. He is a father too; I'm certain he will hear you out. I will try and talk to Her Excellency.
Dr. SHADE:
Her Excellency? Why not Chief?
I heard that Lolade of a person can be difficult at times.
GEN ABIOLA:
Chief lost a lot of influence since the AUG came into power; they have removed a lot of our people from office and replaced them with theirs.
Mr F ABIOLA:
But he still has control over The Table.
Are they not more superior than the ruling party?
GEN ABIOLA:
The Table might be the heart of Nigeria politics, but the ruling government is our eyes. Without their cooperation, all that The Table has is money. The Table is much deadlier and stronger than the government, but there is one weakness.
AYOOLA:
They cannot function without the support of the ruling government.
GEN ABIOLA:
Exactly.
_____________________________________
|Mr ACHEBE's RESIDENCE, ABUJA|
"Mrs. Achebe welcomes Mr. Tanko into Late Mr. Achebe's office"
Mrs. ACHEBE:
Welcome, Mr. Tanko. Please sit.
(Points at the sofa opposite her)
Mr. TANKO:
Thank you, ma.
Mrs. ACHEBE:
I know you are wondering why I called for you.
Mr. TANKO:
Yes, ma.
Mrs. ACHEBE:
You have been my late husband's lawyer for years, and I'm certain over the years I personally have been good to you.
Mr. TANKO:
Yes, you have, ma.
Mrs. ACHEBE:
(Picks up the glass of champagne in front of her)
So you can't refuse a favor from me.
Mr. TANKO:
If it's within my reach, I see no reason why I should deny you of it.
Mrs. ACHEBE:
Hmm, I see. I want you to find a way to take back that which my late husband's illegitimate children have taken from my son.
Mr. TANKO:
Excuse me?
Mrs. ACHEBE:
You heard me right. I want you to find a legal way to take back the chairmanship from Adaora and the investment package he left for Nnamdi and that stupid bank of his.
Mr. TANKO:
(chuckles)
I respect you a whole lot, ma. But sadly I can't help you. This was your husband's wishes. He wanted Adaora to be in control of the company, Nnamdi to be successful with his new company, and you, your son, and daughter to manage his estates.
Mrs. ACHEBE:
I don't care about what he wanted. The dead cannot dictate our lives; I cannot allow this.
Mr. TANKO:
Well, I cannot do what you ask of me. It will go against all I stand for and the friendship I have shared with your family over the years.
Mrs. ACHEBE:
Then I'm sorry I have to do this. You are fired! I will find someone who can get the job done.
Mr. TANKO:
I'm sorry you can't do that.
Mrs. ACHEBE:
(Appears irritated)
Excuse me! I can fire you and I will.
"Adaora walks into the office."
ADAORA:
No, you can't!
Mrs. ACHEBE:
And why?
Mr. TANKO:
Because I do not work for you, Mrs. Achebe.
ADAORA:
He works for me; I decide if he stays or goes.
Mrs. ACHEBE:
(She gets up from her chair)
So you choose the lesbian over me?
Mr. TANKO:
No, you are the one who excluded yourself from your husband's plans for your family.
Mrs. ACHEBE:
You will both regret this.
(She walks out of the room)
_____________________________________
| LOLADE's RESIDENCE, LEKKI PHASE 1|
"Robert walks into the dining room"
LOLADE:
Good morning
ROBERT:
Good morning, love.
OLAMIDE:
Good Morning
ROBERT:
How you dey?
BISI:
(Turns to Olamide as they both laugh out loud)
Oh God, my chest, oh.
ROBERT:
What is it?
What's so funny?
OLAMIDE:
Dude, just stick to your English .
I know you are trying to blend in, but that one nor enter at all.
LOLADE:
Let him be.
By the way, I will be moving to the Aso Rock Villa soon.
OLAMIDE:
That's good, congratulations.
BISI:
Wow, great.
LOLADE:
Is that all?
OLAMIDE:
Emm, were you expecting something else from us?
LOLADE:
Yes!
So none of you would come with me?
OLAMIDE:
I'm not interested, though I speak for myself only.
LOLADE:
And why?
OLAMIDE:
Nothing, I don't just see a reason to. I like it here in Lagos. Besides, I work here.
LOLADE:
(Turns to Bisi)
Hmm, how about you?
BISI:
I don't know, Mum. Nnamdi is moving to Lagos because of me, so going to Abuja would be insensitive of me. Besides, I like it here, and I work here too.
LOLADE:
Wow!
OLAMIDE:
(Gets up to leave)
I will be leaving for the hospital now. I want to check up on Taiwo.
BISI:
I will come with you.
(Turns to Lolade)
Mom, any news on Temi's whereabouts?
LOLADE:
No, my dear.
Both of you should wait a bit; let's go to the hospital together.
ROBERT:
But who could have taken her?
OLAMIDE:
(Sits down)
I suspect that Mr. Obi's son. He is the only person I can think of.
BISI:
Me too; he seemed obsessed with her. Poor Temi, and she's pregnant. I pray nothing happens to her.
ROBERT:
The young man in question should be brought in for questioning.
OLAMIDE:
Bayo said they will be bringing him in for questioning this afternoon.
BISI:
I just hope she's fine.
_____________________________________
|Mr. A BALOGUN's RESIDENCE, FESTAC|
"Ayo Walks down the stairs"
Mrs. B BALOGUN:
Where are you off to?
Mr. A BALOGUN:
The hospital. I want to check up on Taiwo.
Mrs. B BALOGUN:
Shouldn't you be doing something about Temi's whereabouts?
Mr. A BALOGUN:
And who said I am not doing something?
Mrs. B BALOGUN:
Really? What have you done?
Mr. A BALOGUN:
Bisola, please, I don't have time for this. Don't start, E jor.
(Walks towards the front door)
Mrs. B BALOGUN:
If anything happens to my daughter, Ayo... Hmm.
Mr. A BALOGUN:
(Turns to Bisola)
What's that supposed to mean? Is she not my daughter too? What's your problem? I have told you I'm on it, so calm down.
Mrs. B BALOGUN:
You are on it, and you still have the time to visit Taiwo at the hospital.
Mr. A BALOGUN:
So I don't have the right to worry about my son? Bisola, please let me be. I'm tired of you.
Mrs. B BALOGUN:
Why won't you be tired, that Agnis is warming your bed?
I no longer matter to you.
Mr. A BALOGUN:
Since you keep bringing her up, yes, I am having an affair with her! What are you going to do about it? To be sincere with you, I'm tired of your selfishness, foolishness, and pettiness. You are so absorbed in your own world that nobody else matters to you. I'm done with you, Bisola. I want a divorce.
Mrs B BALOGUN:
(Snaps)
Ṣe o ya were? Just dey play.
You can't get rid of me that easily. You think I will allow that whore to destroy what I have worked hard to build.
Mr. A BALOGUN:
You mean what you killed Adebisi to get?
(Bisola pulls back in shock)
I can't even look you in the eyes. Getting rid of her was a no-brainer for you. So getting rid of you shouldn't be that difficult.
(He walks out of the scene)
"Bisola drops her body on one of the couches as she appears speechless"
.____________________________________
|Mr OBI's RESIDENCE, IKOYI|
"Chidi walks into the sitting room"
Mrs. OBI:
Where have you been, son?
The police were here earlier.
Dr. CHIDI:
(Appears unsettled)
Why?
Mrs. OBI:
Haven't you heard? Temilade was kidnapped.
Dr. CHIDI:
Really?
(Smiles)
That's good news.
Mr. OBI:
(Gaze at Chidi)
What have you done, Son?
Dr. CHIDI:
Exactly what I should have done earlier.
Smiles at Mr. Obi as he scratches his hands)
Mrs. OBI:
Son, look at me.
Have you been taking your medications?
Mr. OBI:
Where is Temi?
Where did you keep her?
Dr. CHIDI:
She is safe, and we will get married. I won't let any of you stop us.
Mrs. OBI:
You haven't been taking your medications.
Dr CHIDI:
I'm fine, Mother. And I'm getting married soon. I will make you a grandmother soon. But first, I have to get rid of that baby she is carrying.
(Walks out of the scene)
Mrs. OBI:
His condition is getting worse.
What do we do? We should take him back to the US.
Mr. OBI:
No! We must find out the whereabouts of Temi first. Or the Balogun's will come for us.
Mrs. OBI:
But his condition is getting bad.
Mr. OBI:
I know that, my love, but we have to clear his name first.
Mrs. OBI:
So what do we do?
Mr. OBI:
Don't worry, I will handle it. Tell the guards to keep an eye on him.
_____________________________________
|BAPTIST CENTRAL HOSPITAL, SURURELE|
"Bayo paces around the room"
KEN:
Bro, you have to rest.
You haven't slept for a while now.
CHIKE:
You haven't even taken a shower today.
BAYO:
I'm fine. As I said earlier, guys, I have to be here when he wakes up.
There is no way I would let Taiwo rat me out.
KEN:
Simi already took the fall for you, na. Chill, bro.
BAYO
I can't !
I'm certain that Ayoola's statement contradicted mine.
"Bisi and Olamide walk into the waiting room."
BISI:
Hey, guys.
How is he?
OLAMIDE:
Can we see him?
CHIKE:
Sure, you can, though he isn't up yet.
(He takes them to Taiwo's room)
LOLADE:
(Turns to Bayo)
I haven't seen you this worked up over someone. We both know you do not like.
BAYO:
What's that supposed to mean?
LOLADE:
There is more to what happened to Taiwo, and it scares you. Your guilt got you all worked up.
ROBERT:
Lolade, what are you doing?
Let Bayo be.
"Adebisi walks into the scene"
ADEBISI:
(Her guard pushes Bayo to the wall)
Where is my son?
BAYO:
Your son? I don't understand you.
ADEBISI:
I know you had something to do with what happened to Taiwo.
BAYO:
How is that your business? He is not family to you. Stay away from our business.
ADEBISI:
(She holds Bayo firmly by the arm)
I want to see my son.
LOLADE:
Agnis, what are you talking about? Let Bayo be.
(Grips Adebisi by the wrist)
ADEBISI:
Take your hands off me
"Ayo, alongside Kate, walks into the scene"
Mrs. K BALOGUN:
What are you doing here, Agnis?
ADEBISI:
Enough with the pretense.
I came here for my son.
LOLADE:
You know what? That's enough.
(Turns to her guards)
Take her out of here.
Mr. A BALOGUN:
You can't do that.
LOLADE:
Why?
She shouldn't be here in the first place.
Mr. A BALOGUN:
As a matter of fact, she has more right to be here than any of you.
LOLADE:
What are you talking about?
ADEBISI:
(Turns to Lolade)
I might look unrecognizable, but I'm certain you can't forget the last words you said to me:
"Whatever happens, I won't let Bisola have him. You are indeed the best thing that has ever happened to Ayo."
LOLADE:
(Takes a few steps backward)
Adebisi, oh my God, no, this isn't possible. How did you...
ADEBISI:
(Smiles)
Survive the accident. Well, that is a very interesting story.