I was looking for how to cut the chapter short but I couldn't, it's a very lengthy chapter

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Chapter 28

Unedited

7:14 am

"They took us into a room and..... they killed her her, it was bloody. Then they took me away to be killed but some hunters saved me. Folabi, I'm very very sorry"

Osas' voice resounded in Folabi's head as he made way towards his family house. His mission was to tell his parents even though it'll break their hearts. He possibly couldn't hide it from them! They deserve to know the truth.

Adetutu was his only sister. All he ever wanted was for her to take her studies seriously, pursue whatever career she wanted, get a good degree and a good job! She on the other hand has always been disinterested in studying.

She failed her waec woefully, even when she was forced to learn a skill, her bosses usually end up complaining about truancy, no one ever knew what she was interested in!

All his years studying her, he never knew she was quite interested in prostitution. If only he knew! Folabi rolled his eyes, what will he have done to stop it?

All he felt that moment was heart break and regrets! He shouldn't have let her leave to Lagos in the first place! That was the bad feeling he was having all along!

He also felt guilty for ending the call on Osas after she apologized to him. He felt like It was inconsiderate of him, judging from the fact none of it was her fault. A greater portion was Adetutu's, she managed to put herself and Osas in danger.

He only wished Osas didn't lie to him! If only she tipped him off!

A lady opened the door, "Brother Folabi good morning" she greeted and he forced a smile. "Mummy nko?" "She's inside" she answered and he made his way in.

"Should I offer you water?"

"No. I'm fine, all I want to do is talk to Mum and Dad"

"Your father is getting ready to attend lectures, he has a class by 8"

"They're both in the room shey?" "Yes Brother Folabi" he answered making his way into his parents room. He knocked and his mother opened up, "Good morning Mom" "Ah! Folabi, you didn't even tell someone you're coming" "I didn't want to. Do you have a minute?"

"I have more, I don't know about your father. The man has lectures, she walked in leaving the door open and he entered into the room.

"Good morning Dad" he bowed his head and his father smiled, "Good morning, you need to stop this tour surprise visit. I was going to talk to you, if you had called earlier on, I would have told you to just postpone till I get back from school. I have lectures now"

"I'll be leaving for Lagos today, I have a flight to catch up" he announced to the shock of both his parents. "Do you have like a journalist conference to attend, cause I know it's those kind of things that usually take you guys to other states"

"No Ma"

"Ah Han, is it an investigation. It's definitely an investigation"

Folabi shook his head, "What then? Is your friend having a wedding" "Mom it's Monday" "Ehn answer me now, you're leaving me to guess all sorts! Have you heard from your sister, I've been calling her on phone, her number is not reachable and I've not been having good signs about her lately"

"That's exactly why I'm here and the reason I'm going to Lagos"

"What happened? Has she caused trouble?" "Mom, Dad, have your seat"

His mother sat down but his father shook his head looking at his wrist watch, "You know how I hate entering into Thermodynamics class very late" "Joko now" his wife tugged at his trousers.

"Joko (sit)" she whispered with pleading eyes and he did. "Please be fast about it"

"Mom, Dad, this is going to be heartbroken, quite honestly I'll prefer not to tell you but you two deserve to know that...." He paused running his hands through his hair then he turned his back at shutting his eyes in tears.

"Adetutu is gone" he announced turning to the see the shock on his parent's face. "Gone bawo? As in gone to another country?" His mother rose moving close to him and he shook his head.

"She was killed by some ritualist, she's dead"

7: 14 am

Osifo turned in bed and Morenike who was wearing a wine lipstick turned back at her. "Finally, he wakes up!" She announced chuckling to herself.

"What's the time?"

"And it's time to leave for work and you're late already" she pressed her lips together, admiring herself in the mirror. "Why didn't you wake me up, I forgot to set up an alarm"

Morenike scoffed, "Because I know how your body reacts to solid food. What did you eat? Fufu and groundnut soup or it is owo soup and starch?" She asked and he smiled knowing she woke up on a good side.

"Groundnut soup"

"You know, I'll never understand you Bini people and your soups, groundnut should be left inside garri or merged with bread, or inside mixed flour as peanut and starch should be left alone for clothes and not eaten with soup"

"Beans should also be left to be eaten with bread and as beans alone not gbegiri" he answered and they both chuckled. "So you ate bread and groundnut"

"I tried it during my school days" she smiled and he chuckled, "Ajebo like you" "I had a taste of it, it wasn't bad" she replied and he smiled.

"What?"

"I just wish you can remain this way forever"

Morenike laughed, "What way?" "Like a sweetheart, not the evil boss" "Did Avia change her perfume? You smelled different when you got back."

Osifo raised his brow quite surprised she noticed, he thought she never noticed anything. How in the world does she know Avia's smell? This woman ehn! He cleared his throat, "I had to drop one of her neighbors at the mall"

"Ohkay. Not like I'm bothered anyway so...." She trailed off picking her handbag, "See in at the office dear"

"You too" he answered, "Not even a kiss? My fine wine" He called and she chuckled, "Are you sure I'm your fine wine? Aren't I always annoying"

"Wine taste sour sometimes, but I still love it" he answered and she chuckled, blowing kisses at him then she walked out of the room.

Osifo pulled his phone closer to himself. He instantly had a flash back of Tiffany inputting her contact.

7: 25 am

Osas watched Osaze make some calls, while some cameramen set up the lighting in the house.
"If I can have your support, I'll be more than happy. All I just want is the press standing at the police station when Chief gets arrested and when he comes out. I'm giving you a scoff, I'm sure everyone will be flipping through the papers to read it. I want the news printed on your newspapers Magarette. I'll have the article i typed emailed to you today"

"What if it doesn't go farther than this? Come on, we're in naija oh, these things no dey always hold water, Chief Akinola is a very influential man and he has friends in high places."

"It's like you've forgotten who you're speaking to Magarette, I won't stop until Justice is served hot on Chief Akintola's table" "Osaze, this table you're shaking ehn, see, I've seen things in this business oh. That man won't be taken down so easily like that. If you want my advice, it's not too late to change plans oh. Your girlfriend can just adjust and forget the issue"

Osaze scoffed, "Do you think I'm doing this only because it's what my girlfriend wants? No, it's not just that; having Chief Akintola put behind bars is Justice for all, for every soul he has raped, for every soul he has killed. I'm ready for whatever happens. Do I have your support or not?"

"Any day Osaze, any day" she assured and he hung up looking at Osas who seemed worried. "Are you okay?" "I dey think of Folabi, him still dey vex with me" she rose up from the chair and he shrugged.

"He'll get over it sooner or later, it wasn't your fault Osas"

"I should have told him the moment I realized Tutu's job. I'm so mad at myself"

His phone rang and he picked it, "Which kain call you dey make way take twenty minutes?" Omo asked and he kept shut, "I was....." "No vex, abeg carry phone give that woman" she added and Osaze did.

"Osas, osas, osas, how many times I call you?"

"Wetin happen?"

"You no go commot for that Lagos before them kill you finish" "I no go die" "When you go come die kor?" "Omo what's your point?"

"My point is, I'm on my way to Lagos"

"What?"

"Send me the address"

"Osato and Zuwa kor?"

"Them dey with me"

"Jesus! School kor? School don resume now, it's September already, I no dey like ember travelling" "What's my business with that? How that one take concern me? I'm coming to drag you back to Benin"

"Drag wetin?" She moved away from Osaze, "I no get where stay, na my boyfriend I dey stay with." "I come today, we move tomorrow" "E be like say you no get wetin you go use money do. I no even get five naira of my own to carry give una make una travel back. Abeg Omo,"

"You know Osas, you fled Benin on hearing about your siblings like you had none there. We've been together for years and you were the only family I had, you're still the only family I have and i can't afford to lose you Osas. No way" "Osaze go send the address"

"We're ready Sir" the Camera guy tugged at Osaze's shirt. "Okay" "Omo, I have to go now. Later" Osas replied and Osaze collected the phone looking back at the cameramen and then at Osas.

"All you just have to do is explain everything that happened in details"

"What next?"

"It'll go on social media"

"Again? Na only me dey?" She asked and he held her hands, "Hey, the more people that knows about this, the better. Are you ready?" He asked and she shook her head.

"No. But I don't have a choice, let's do this"

7:55 a.m

Kubiat and a team of three policemen sat outside in a car outside Chief Akintola's house. Osaze called and he picked up, "Hey" "Have you guys gone in?" "No, taking advise from others, he has some diabolic defenses. If we go in, catching him will be nearly impossible, most police officers usually end up coming out like zombies and not catching him at all. What's the plan now?"

"You'll arrest that bloody ritualist, We move into the building with police escorts, I already made calls, I'll go get a search warrant to search the building."

"Be careful Osaze, protect Osas"

"I will. You too be careful"

"Sure"

Immediately they sighted his car drive out, Kubiat drove in blocking the car from moving further.

"Tani awon eleyi? (Who are these people?)" She asked, "mi o mo, odabi pe awon eleyii ti ya were? Ori won ti daru! (It's like these ones have gone mad)" He asked while his body guard who was also his driver got out.

Kubiat got out along with the three men bringing out his barge, "This is Police business" "Is everything okay? We were heading out" "Not anymore" he attempted to move forward and the hefty guy blocked him, Kubiat raised his brow looking up at him.

"I hope you're aware this is called obstruction of Justice and you can be arrested for it" "I'm doing my job" "And as a member of the law enforcement agency, I ask that you step aside and let me do my job" Kubiat requested then he moved to where Chief Akinola was seated.

Mrs Bello got out, "What is going on here? Ewo lo shi gan? (What's all this rubbish?) Can't you see that were going out, please get that useless car off the road before my husband gets angry"

Chief Akinola wind down the car looking up at him. "Who are you and what do you want?" "Detective Kubiat Bassey," "Ah, the police? Ehn, you should have said it since, I have something for you" he answered picking up a briefcase.

"Please step out of the car now"

"Wait now, Iwo naa duro (wait). Your body is too hot" he opened it bringing out wads of naira notes which triggered some form of anger in him. "Just take this one and manage"

"Step out of the car now! I don't want to use force" he barked and Chief Akinola got out. "Why are you shouting at my husband like that? Who are you? Do you know who he is?"

Kubiat turned him backwards facing the car, "You're under arrest Chief Akinola," "Nibo? (Where?)" His wife yelled, "For what? My husband has never wronged anyone in his entire life. I'm sure it's his enemies"

"I'm sure this is a misunderstanding officer"

"It'll be in your best interest to keep quiet for anything you say can be use against you in the court of law" he handcuffed him now passing him to one of the police officers.

"Ah!" Mrs Bello yelled placing her hands on the white damask on her head. "I'll surely get out, today today, I'll get out. Al this gra grab is for nothing"

Mrs Bello walked closer to him when she realized it was getting serious and her husband was going to be pushed into the police van. "Wait Officer calm down, how much do you want? My husband is capable" she asked and Kubiat scoffed, "The name is detective Kubiat Bassey, you can ask around" he said walked past her.

"Ah, oko mi, detective, I can be your mother oh." She yelled following him the she placed her hands on her head again ruining the damask tied on her head.

Mathew stood outside George's gate since Esther didn't give him entrance into the house. He called her number severally but she refused picking up.

9:12 am

Immediately Chief Akinola got out from the police Van, Magarette approached him along with his camera men. "Chief Akinola, what can you say about the arrest? What crime have you committed?"

"I was on my way to an important event when these people arrested and told me I had the right to remain silent and pushed me into their van, whatever they have arrested me for, I'm sure that I'm innocent. My enemies are only trying to ridicule me"

Mrs Bello came from behind making a call, "This is the time i need your support oh, please come and save my husband"

"What are the charges before me?" Chief Akinola asked, "At least I'm entitled to that right!"

"Kidnapping, ritualism, attempted murder, rape, and bribing an officer of the law"

"In this Nigeria? Bribery? Wo, erm officer"

"Detective"he corrected and Chief hissed, "Whatever the title is, who is the instigator of this allegations before me? I know the real instigators, I just want to know the medium they used"

"Are you familiar with the name Osas?" He asked and Chief scoffed, "I refuse to answer any further question, without my lawyer. Iwo duro naa (wait), do you think you can keep me here for too long because of the charges levelled against me? It's not the first time and it won't be the last time that I'll be accused of such because all politicians have enemies and they don't rest until they see their empires burned to the ground patapata"

"So you're saying you're innocent"

"I'm saying that I won't say a word until my lawyer's present. Yes! I haven't wronged anybody, I am a good citizen of the federal republic of Nigeria, I pay my taxes and give to the good will of the society."

Kubiat scoffed, "I've did a little background check on you, you have records of being severally accused of rape but you usually wriggle out of it one way or the other" "I won't breathe a word without my lawyer, sho ti gbo mi? (Have you heard me?)

9:45

Osaze pulled over by a building now looking at Osas, "Are you sure this is the place?" "Yes. I no dey forget place like that" "Okay" he muttered getting out and she and the photographer they hired got out too.

The police van pulled over and Four police officers got out of the car now walking towards the couple. "Is this the place?" Theo, the police Officer leading the team asked, "Yes"

They charged towards the gate then Theo knocked on the door. A man opened up looking at them, "Officers, una good morning oh, wetin carry una come here?" He asked, "Hope no problem?" He added and Theo shook his head.

"We just want to search the house"

"That's not possible oh"

"Where are the occupants of the house?"

"Them no dey for now, maybe you go come back"

"We have a warrant" Theo raised the document up then he charged in and the rest followed him in. The security instantly puts a call through to the occupant.

One of the police officer, Officer Solo looked around the beautiful compound in awe then he turned towards Osas who was feeling nostalgic from entering.

"Babe, you sure na the place be this?" "Yes Officer" Osas answered and he laughed in disbelief, "This place way be like the kingdom of heaven so? The place fine die!"

"Not all that glitter is gold" Osaze answered and Officer Solo cleared his throat, "Omo e fine die"

The photographer took pictures of the building.

She could hear Adetutu's voice in her head. "Cheer up Osas! Come on, let's go in"

"I no like the feeling way I dey get"

"What kind of feeling?"

"Like the feeling way i dey always get when I enter graveyard or cemetery. Na cemetery we dey?"

"Come on, look at this beautiful house? Does it look like a cemetery in your eyes? Let answer that question, no it doesn't. This is where they're making us sleep, the last time, the place wasn't even fancy" Adetutu brought out her phone snapping the building. "This is going to IG baby, it's not everyday we enter into this kind of big house now"

The photographer flashed his camera and Osas shut her eyes as she remembered the guards warning them about taking pictures. "Are you okay?" Osaze asked and she nodded. "Yeah ... I just remembered when the guards said we couldn't snap pictures"

The supposed occupant of the house, Oyetunji Lateef, looked out the window from his room , he sighted Osaze then he made a call to Chief Kayode. "They're here" "Seriously? I hope everything is in order"

"Yes Sir. I'll suggest we just kill them, we have the girl, we can just kill them not like the thing has been announced on radio or it has been made public or anything" "Currently, there is a confession incriminating Chief Akinola and myself. Akinola has been arrested, I'm not sure you're familiar with the name Osaze Benjamin Briggs. He's a so called Advocate of human justice. Do you know how many of my friends he has managed to put in a tight corner? Do you think he'll be stupid to go in there without back up? If anything happens to him, what do you think will be Akinola's fate? Let's play smartly, it's not as if he'll find anything in the first place or do you have any reason to be afraid?"

"No Sir"

"Just go and attend to them, act normal. The matter will blow over soon, we have a solution already"

Olatunji slowly walked out of the house, "Police officers In my home, I hope there's no problem" he asked and Theo turned back at the security, "Your security said there was no one home. Lying to the police is a federal offense." "I'll have to plead on his behalf, I wasn't expecting visitors, I specifically told him to tell anyone who comes that I'm not around. You know these things now, it just protocols. I hope there's no problem?" He asked and the photographer took a picture of him.

He scoffed now faking a smile at him, "It's protocol Sir" the photographer answered and he shrugged, "Hm" he exhaled and then Theo walked towards him raising the search warrant up, "We have a search warrant to search the building"

"Oh" he paused now glancing at Osas, "I hope there's no problem? What exactly are you looking for? I don't do anything shady in my house, I live in this home with my family but if you want to look, feel free, I would have even let you do it without a search warrant. I have nothing to hide" he answered and Theo instructed the Policemen to walk in ans spread around while the man stood still with his hands crossed.

"I have nothing to hide"

"You see the way that man look me?" Osas asked and Osaze nodded, "Yes noticed too, he definitely knows you"

Chief Kolade walked into Morenike's Office with a briefcase in his hand. and she smiled. "Good morning Chief Kolade Micheal. Please have your seat Sir" she requested and he did. "Our own Morenike Briggs, bawo ni?" "I'm fine Sir" "Gbogbo ebi nko?" "They are all fine Sir, how about your family Sir?"

"They are fine my dear, your husband nko?"

Morenike scoffed shaking her head, "That's what I don't like and you all know it. Beating about the bush, I have never been a fan of it" "Omo gege bi baba re (A child just like her father)" he answered and she smiled.

"What is it you want Sir"

Chief Kolade brought out his phone, after taking his time to swipe through it, he passed a video to Morenike, "That is Chief Akinola Bello, a very good friend of mine, and that is the girl trying to sabotage his image with pure propaganda"

Morenike looked at Osas in the video and she wondered why she looked familiar. "I was called for an ushering gig in a political event, one of my friend sister naim hook me up with the gig. When we got there, I wasn't comfortable with vibe I was getting from the place. Our phones were taken from us and we were given free rights to any room but Adetutu and I stayed in the same room. I found out from ...." Osas trailed off and Morenike noticed she was withholding information. "Someone told me that, it wasn't safe to be there and that that's how Chief Kolade and Chief Akinola usually deceive girls into coming for ushering jobs and then they use them for rituals. Adetutu found out the same thing and we decided to escape. Adetutu was shot in the leg" she cried and Osaze passed her an handkerchief.

"Is that.....?"

"Yes. It's your son"

Osas continued from where she stopped, "By this time I being dey outside gate already, person con point gun for my head. One of the men beat me, kick me for belle, then they took me to one room, there was blood everywhere. They've already killed some of the girl, Adetutu was kneeling down" she wiped her tears. "That was when the witch doctor said that they cannot use me for sacrifice that my blood will destroy the whole thing"

Morenike scoffed, "Lies, is this supposed to be a Nollywood movie?" "I begged them to let us go but they didn't, that was when he lifted the matchete and......" She trailed off busting into tears.

"I was in shock when my PA showed me that video. As at when he did, it only had like 54 views, now it's increasing, with Chief Akinola arrested, we need your help" he placed the briefcase on the desk "We are offering you five million naira to settle this matter sharp sharp, Wo, Barrister, if you can help us get rid of this wahala, we'll surely reward you more than this" he answered and Morenike grinned.

Chike called his mother, and she picked up. "Chike, I'm busy right now" "I just saw a video of Osas on youtube, mom it's bad. I'll send you a link"

Goriola and Eniola walked into Morenike's office with Chief Kolade present, "You called for us Ma'am" Goriola said after greeting him, and she grinned. "Yes. I want you two working on a case with me, it's generally your field Goriola, I'm going to need you and Eniola's sneaky tactics."

"Okay. What's the case about?"

"So some girl is accusing Chief Akinola Bello of being a ritualist and killing her friend"

She passed the phone to him, Goriola who scoffed on seeing Osas. "Osaze is her attorney" "This is Osas. We'll be going head on with Osas, no way"

Morenike raised her brow, "You know the prostitute?" "She's not a prostitute, Osas is all but a prostitute. I'm sure there's more to this story" "She's not the one we're defending, it's Chief Akinola Bello. Goriola if you're not ready for this, leave my office now. You're embarrassing me" she requested and he did.

"Did he..... Did he just leave?" She asked and Eniola rolled her eyes, "I believe that stupid girl has them hooked with some Bini charm!" "You know her too?"

"She was the one who ruined the retreat for me and I'm quite sure it's because of her Osaze broke up with me. I'm sure this video will start trending all over, and I trust Nigerians to blow things out of proportion. I'm sure she's lying"

"Of course she is. She's just one prostitute looking for a way to tarnish a politician's image, that's what we're working on. You know the deal, we have to trust our clients and protect them at all costs so are you in or you're going to support her too." "Support who? I have my own score to settle with her. She's definitely losing the case before it even begins"

Obianuju watched the interior decorators work on the new building then she put a through to Osaze. "Good morning Sir" "Hey, are the decorators around?"

"Yes Sir"

"I hope you've cancelled my appointments for today"

"I did Sir, any development?"

"The police are currently searching the house, we haven't found anything yet but we're hopeful" "How is Osas?" "She's....." He trailed off, "Honestly, I don't think she's fine. This must be waking up some really crazy memories"

"I guess so. You guys take care"

"Thank you" he replied hanging up.

Osas walked through the stairs and another memory flashed through her mind.

"We need to run,we need to get you out of here, even if it's just you"
"We're both going"

"Don't be stupid! We're going"

Osas then walked towards the room that served as their shrine, she walked along with Osaze, Theo and another policeman. When they entered the room, they found out, the room had been fully furnished, there was a bed, a dresser table, a drawer and a wardrobe.

It had been turned into a beautiful room. "This is the room they did the ritual" "Are you sure?" Theo asked and Osas scoffed, "Yes! Make una no dey ask me that question again! I resemble tata? (Baby?). I no dey forget room or places like that! I remember, this was the room. They killed every girl here, the whole floor was bloody!"

She remembered Adetutu's apology and the regret on her face at that last minute. "I'm sorry I brought you into this. If you fucking make it out of this place, tell my brother I'm sorry, tell him I love him, let him know he's the best brother in history and I'm the sister who doesn't deserve his love"

"You won't die"

Adetutu laughed in between her tears. "If you make it out this Osas, please make this blood sucking mother fuckers pay." She begged. He made some chant swinging the matchete at her and her head went off while blood splashed on Osas' face and cloth.

"This is the room! I have never been sure of anything!"

"It doesn't look like the room, I'm supposed to smell some form of rottenness, or stink... This only smells like"

"Like paint" Osaze answered, "Paint from the walls" he moved closer touching the wall. "They we're definitely trying to cover something up. If she says it's the room, then it is" Osaze affirmed then he moved closer to the wardrobe.

"This is new too"

Esther walked into the psychiatric ward sighting Mathew, just when she decided to dodge, he caught her. "Esther" "What? See, I am not in a good mood, I haven't been in a good mood for a while so, if you know what's good for you, you'll vamoose and let me go my way"

"I've been trying to talk the doctor into letting me see my friend" "I already told you, he's in no position to see anyone" "Let me see that for myself"

Esther scoffed picking offense, "Do you think I'm lying or something? Didn't you speak to the owner of the hospital? Your friend is in serious need of treatment. All I want for my husband is is quick recovery, I care about him as much as you do"

"I need to talk to him about something important"

"His daughter? I saw the text on his phone, have you found her?" "No, not yet, I have her phone number but it hasn't gone through, not even once"

"George gave her the power of attorney," "The will has been read already?" "No, George sent me a letter" "We can't share his properties, not like that's all that matters, we can't do anything without her, we need to find her as quickly as possible. If I can have her contact"

"I don't think that'll be necessary for now, I'll let you know when I finally reach her. Greetings to George" he answered leaving and Esther hissed.

"Stupid man! None of my plans are even working!" She stomped her foot on the floor.

Mathew got out walking close to his car and a guy walked close to him, "You're Mr George's friend right? The one he sent to Benin right?" He asked and Matthew creased his brow staring suspiciously at the guy. "I've seen you with him that's why I'm asking"

"Who are you?"

"I had one simple job, to follow Mrs Esther and keep my eyes on her. I don't know who to report since he was admitted."

"What happened?"

"I think this whole Mr George's situation is Mrs Esther's sick plan" "I don't understand"

"While I was going about my normal job of spying on that woman, she visited this same ward, I didn't know why until the next day when I heard Mr George had been admitted. The man was perfectly fine when I spoke to him, how come they're not letting anyone see him, how come the wife is the only person that can see him? It doesn't add, Mr George paid me well to get this job done, I don't think it's fair he was admitted without being really crazy"

Dr Awolowo stared into Chief Akintola's face. "I had to come immediately i heard of this arrest" "You know, my wife and I, we were on our way to the airport when these stupid Policemen arrested us with that stupid one that called himself detective, detective oshi! So it's me that that boy, that small rat wants to disgrace? He will see! I will teach him a lesson in this Lagos" "Now is not the time to say things rashly, it's the time to tread smartly" "Is it because of one small girl that I'm in this mess? Is it a small girl that you guys can't pull me out? I expected to have been out of here la ti pe! (Since!)" "If she's the one, we would have pulled strings easily but it's Barrister Osaze Benjamin Briggs that behind her"

"As what?"

"We don't know. That's the information we have for now" "Wait, is it that one that owns the foundation?" "Yes. The same one! If we're not careful, he might have his way." "Wo o bi da! If he thinks he can bring me down, he's joking I'll bring him down with his entire family"

"Wo gbenu jare! Someone is trying to advise you what to do you're still acting irrational! O ti sele already! There are no two ways about it! Omo Bini yen Osaze, (That benin boy Osaze), if you want to do gragra, if you don't use sense, he'll be your undoing"

"Oya, what should I do? Cause now, my wife and children must be worried, they need to know that I am innocent of this charges." "Simple, eni ba ma mo'bo akoko se bi lagido (To catch a monkey, you must act like one)"

"Kini iyẹn tumọ si ? (What does that imply?" "We make his mother, Morenike Briggs your defense and you've won already"

"His mother? Will she?"

"Even though you're as guilty as Osama Bin laden himself, the woman will pull you out of that situation. I have tested her and I've not regretted patronizing her, all you need is to give her money pere (only) and destroy her sense of judgement!"

"Are you.... Are you serious? Isn't she his mother? How can a mother go against her own son?"

"Ah! Just put money on her table, that's all. I already put Chief Kolade through on what to do, forget your lawyers, what you need is that woman. If there's anyone who knows her son very much, it'll be her. All you'll have to do is take your hands off and let her handle the whole thing"

1:25 pm

After a careful search around the whole house, the police found nothing, so they made a decision to leave but Osas proved adamant. "I no believe say them go just fit hid everything like that!" She ran up the stairs and Osaze followed her.

"Osarieme!" He called out but she still ran down the stairs then she sighted someone walk through the other end of the wall. It looked like Adetutu, "Ade!" She called out and Ade walked towards her.

"Osas?" She asked, "Wait, you can see me? You're not dead too are you?" She asked and Osas shook her head. "Thank God! So you weren't joking the other night you said.... Wow"

Osas busted into tears, "I'm sorry I couldn't save you" she said and Osaze stood behind her wondering who the hell she was speaking to. "It's okay, it's my mess. Now I'm stucked here! It's already worst these guys used our blood for money, now we can't even rest in peace"

"I'm sorry" she apologized and Adetutu pointed at Osaze, "There's someone behind you" she noted and Osas turned back at Osaze. "Who are you talking to?" He asked and Osas exhaled.

"Adetutu" she answered pointing at her, "She's here" "He'll think you're crazy"

"He's my boyfriend"

"For reals? So fast?"

"It's a long story"

"He's handsome" Adetutu waved at him, "He obviously cant see me but anyways. Does Brother Folabi know about me?"

"Yeah. He's angry at me"

"I'm sorry."

"I came here with the police, we're trying to investigate this matter" "They already cleaned up the place, I don't think you guys are going to see anything except you check the graveyard"

"Graveyard?"

"It's a graveyard here Osas, younwere right all along. You won't believe the number of girls these men have killed. Now they're trying to conceal it"

"Who your babe dey talk to?" Officer Solo asked and Osas turned towards him, "Una don check everywhere well?" "Madam, nothing dey this place. Make we do commot for person house abeg. There is nothing here!"

Osaze's phone rang for the umpteenth time that day. This time, it was a call from strange number. "Who am I speaking to?" "Should I say I'm deeply hurt? I'm not surprised you don't have my number" Goriola said and he frowned, "What do you want?"

"I saw the video of Osas and I was really worried. Why didn't she tell me? I thought we were friends" he answered and Osaze kept quiet moving away, he was fuming with anger but he tried hard to conceal it.

"Friends huh?" He asked then he scoffed, "Do you even have any idea who she is?" He asked and Goriola scoffed, "Yes. She's the woman I've grown to like and I won't mind getting married to her and I don't care if you bloody like her or not or if she's with someone or not. I like her"

Osaze exhaled, "Can I speak to her?" "She's not here" he answered. "Where can I find you guys" "We have a lot of plans" "Just name a place, besides I have an important information for you. Share your location and I'll share my information "

Osaze shut his eyes, "Damn you Goriola" "The feeling is mutual too" "I'll be at the police station" "Which?" "Kubiat's Office" "Okay....." "What's your information?" "Chief Kolade Micheal stopped by at the office, I think your mom is taking the case."

"What? Why are they always doing that?" He asked and Goriola scoffed, "One advise Osaze, even though I know you don't have it in you, you gotta bring out your crafty or else you have no chance here" he chipped in hanging up and Osaze tightened his fist.

His phone rang again and he glanced at the caller's ID, he picked it on realizing it was Folabi, "Hello" he said in a tired tone, "Hey, Im in Lagos already, let Osas know I'm at the airport." "I will" "What's the development?"

"We just finished conducting a fruitless search, there was nothing" "I don't believe Osas will take you guys to the wrong address." "I don't believe so too. They've cleared all evidence"

"Clearly!"

"One Chief Akinola, one of the ritualist has been, particularly the one who wanted her caught some time ago, I don't know if you're aware of that. He has been arrested"

"What police station?"

"Are you sure you'll be able to find your way?" "It might have been a while, I think I'll find my way even if I have ask around. Forward me an address, thank you"

"I will" he answered looking at Osas with disappointment in his eyes, he felt bad they didn't find anything to pin against him, it's just her testimony against him. "That was Folabi, he's already in Lagos"

"How long have we been here?"

"Five hours"

"Seriously?"

Morenike along with Chief Kolade entered into the detainee room where Chief Akinola was. "Good afternoon Chief" she greeted and they both sat on two chairs opposite him.

"I was told you need my legal assistance" "Yes, I have decided to turn to your expertise in this situation. My lawyers, I don't think they can help me in this situation."

"Can you explain it to me what happened? Chief Kolade has done his best but I don't work that way. I love to get information from the horse's mouth, that's the only reason I'm in this place"

"This is definitely a plot from my political enemies to destroy my chances of winning the next election. They know that I'm running for the post of councillor in my ward. I want you to represent me and clear this issue." "You've been charged with kidnap, ritualism, attempted rape, murder and bribing an officer of the law"

"Those are just lies against me, I have never committed murder in my life, I am an elder in church. I pay my tithes, I don't kill me people!" he answered and she scoffed in disbelief. "It's your son that's working with one prostitute who is working with my enemies to bring me down"

"Osaze doesn't support the guilty party, if he's pushing this, it's a for a reason" "Are you saying that I'm lying?"

"I've worked a lot with politicians and I know the way they speak. If Osaze is pinning all this on you he has suspicions"

Chief Akinola raised his brows rudely while Chief Kolade gestured for him to keep calm. "Ehn, Morenike, I knew your father back then and I knew what he was capable of and I know you can do better yourself"

Morenike exhaled, she has spent years redeeming politicians of their sins, she hated it when they come to her only as a counter attack against Osaze especially when it involves rape cases. "If I know my son, if he already has you arrested, he's ready to take it further than this. I don't want surprises, in fact I hate surprises. What really happened?" She asked and Chief Akinola exhaled.

"She, this Osas girl, she's just one prostitute they connected me with. While I was trying to make my way with her, how can I rape a prostitute? Wasn't that what they called her for? she kicked me in the balls and escaped now, she was also called to a party we had planned as politicians. All these prostitutes forming as ushers, we all know they're all prostitutes too! She came too, didn't even allow us have our way, she escaped and now she's lying to everyone that I used the remaining girls for money ritual."

"Where are the remaining girls?"

"They left the following morning, why will we use them for rituals? Do I have the face of someone that'll use anybody for rituals, awon ota mi, wo po! (My enemies are much)"

"Maybe it's a personal vendetta, a personal hate for you. Are you sure you didn't try to rape her?"

"Can I call that one rape? I already paid for her, I was even offering her more money. Whether is personal hate, ba wo ni ma se mo? (How will I know?)" He shrugged spreading his arms apart, "As I am right now, I am as innocent as anything"

2:35 pm

"So is that what you do Eniola? Stick up for the bad guys? Even Goriola washed his hands off it" he turned towards Goriola was was leaning against the stand.

"Is that what you do Kubi? Condemn the suspect before trial?" She asked and he scoffed, "That man sent Osas running for her life, he has been trailing her for a while now"

"I'm not interested in knowing"

"Are you doing this because you don't like her or because Osaze is the one defending her?" "Excuse you? Who said I don't like her?"

Kubiat scoffed, "Well, it wasn't so hard to notice, I'm pretty sure everyone at the retreat noticed it." "You're just being ridiculous right now" "It's either that or you're mad at the fact, Osaze chose her. I know it hurts, she broke up with me too"

Eniola scoffed, "They're together?" She asked and Kubiat opened his mouth in shock, "Wait ... Shit, of course you don't know." He shut his eyes in regret and Eniola laughed hysterically now tightening her fist.

Kubiat's phone rang and he picked up, "Hey, at I'm inside the police station, Osaze gave me your number." Folabi said and Kubiat sighted him then he waved at him. "I'm the guy waving at you" he said and Folabi hung up walking towards him.

"Hey man, my name is Afolabi Badmus" he answered and Eniola turned looking at the guy who had the same last name as her. "I'm Detective Kubiat Bassey"

"Nice to meet you detective, I heard the suspect has been apprehended." "He was this morning" "I hope you Policemen are not going to play foul and get him released"

"We're not planning on it"

Eniola scoffed, "Ignorance is not bliss" she replied and Folabi turned to her, "Excuse me? Are you talking to me?" He asked and she rolled her eyes. "Who else?" "Ignorance is not bliss like how?" "Do you need an interpretation?"

"Be my guest cause right now I don't see how it relates to the topic, is it a new idiom in your vocabulary?" He snapped and she scoffed again.

"I meant, technically, there's no evidence whatsoever that proofs that Chief Akinola Bello is guilty of those allegation. If you have that knowledge you wouldn't be speaking like an illiterate"

"Please who's this young woman?" He asked and Kubiat gave Eniola a look, "My name is Barrister Eniola Badmus, one of the lawyers making sure Chief Akinola Bello leaves this place today"

So what if you're a Barrister? He thought within then he hissed turning towards Kubiat, he knew her kind, when ladies like are given little attention, they usually end up misusing it.

No be me you go use shine!

"I hope that man isn't leaving today"

"Wow, there's no point flogging a dead horse, you're completely hopeless" "Wow, wait, is proverbs like your thing? The elasticity of my patience has worn out, I don't have the time to exchange words with spoilt brats"

"Excuse you?"

"Was I even talking to you? I was talking to this man here" he pointed at Kubiat, "I was also talking to him before you rudely interrupted us"

"Eniola" Kubiat called out and she hissed. "Where were we?" She asked and Afolabi pointed at her, "Please she's all yours, I don't even want to make myself angry than I am"

"Eniola, my point is that Osas the victim here not Chief Akinola"

"She's not, she's just the girl who has been paid by one other politician to lie against Chief Akinola and we're going to prove that"

"Osas will never do that!" Folabi snapped and Eniola stared deeply at him then he scoffed, "She also used her charm on you right? It's like she's using this charm on every guy in Lagos" She turned towards Goriola.

"I don't need to know you but I can tell your tongue is coated in bitterness."

Osas got out of the car with Osaze and Magarette walked towards them, "Miss Osarieme right?" "You can call me Osas" "We all saw your post on YouTube which is making views already as we speak and it's slowly moving to other social media via sharing. What do you have to say about the reality of this issue?" She asked and Osas shrugged trying to understand the question.

"Can you rephrase it"

"I meant, what you said, everything you experienced, is it real?"

"Yes. I cannot lie like that, God forbid!"

"So Chief Akinola is allegedly a ritualist according to you" "Yes" "What do you hope from all of this?"

"Justice for those people who died, they didn't deserve it. Justice for those ones whose name I don't know. Justice for UD, for Uche and Adetutu" she said getting quite emotional.

"There are no evidence against my client, all we have is a confession of a random woman who has been pointed out as a prostitute, it's a social world, anyone can say anything on social media, without proof, these are just mere words and you know it" Morenike said to the DPO and he fell into deep thoughts.

Osaze knocked and walked in with Kubiat, "Good afternoon DPO, Mrs Briggs" he greeted and Morenike felt her heart sink. She wondered why she wasn't used to it by now.

"I was just talking to your mother here concerning this issue. First, I don't understand why you two are on opposite sides and personally, i think situation like this usually gets ugly and it causes strain"

"I'm not worried about the strain, there's enough strain as it is" Osaze replied and Morenike shrugged, "My client is innocent of the charges levied against him" "Like Dr. Awolowo right?" He asked and she chuckled.

"I believe my client is innocent, well of course, except you have an evidence that proofs otherwise. Do you?" She asked and he kept quiet.

"Do you?" The DPO asked and he shook his head, "I personally picked her up the night she ran from that place, her dress was bloody" "Really Osaze? Is that the best you can do? Where's the sight evidence?"

He scoffed,"There's none, for now" "Then there's no point for my client to be held here against his wish" "I'm sorry Barrister, but your mother is right, I'll have to Grant him bail"

"I understand"

Morenike stood up grinning, "Don't grin just yet Mrs Briggs, see you in court" "Oh, I'm scared already, it's not too late too late to drop this madness. That girl is nothing but a prostitute"

"She's all but a prostitute, she's my girlfriend"

"What?" She raised her brow in shock, "You can't be serious" "I'm dead serious" "You can do better than that, your poor choices in women is just so annoying"

"Just like your poor choices in clients. Chief Akinola Bello along with his clicks are guilty and I promise you that I'm not going to stop until he and everyone of involved that night rots in jail"

"Yeah right! See you in court then, you watch and learn a few tricks from your mother Benjamin. Let the best lawyer win"

"Let the best lawyer win" Osaze replied leaving the office.

"Folabi I'm sorry" Osas apologized folding her hands, "I'm really sorry for keeping her job away from you, I should have told you the moment I found out but she begged me"

"It okay" Folabi replied, "It's amazing, your English is getting better" he added and Osas chuckled lightly, "You dey whine me?" "I'm serious. I'm also sorry for being an asshole and ending the call on you. I was angry and I needed time to think, it's crazy to think Adetutu is gone, just like that!" He withheld his tears.

"She dropped a message for you before they....."

"Beheaded her..."

"She said I should let you know you're the best big brother and she doesn't deserve your love" she sniffled, "She said if I ever make it alive I should make them pay"

"And that we will. That one is so certain!"

Osaze walked towards them now plunging his hands into his pocket. "They're granting him bail" "What?" Osas asked and Osaze shrugged. "There's no evidence and my mother Chief's attorney so...."

"Your mother?" Folabi asked in shock, "How's that possible?" "We're not on good terms" "And I believe it's a strategy, maybe they're trying to weaken your defenses. There has to be something you can pin on him"

"He attempted to force Osas at the hotel before she escaped, Osas clearly heard his voice amongst the ritualist, there are no evidence and truthfully if we're taking just that to court, we'll lose. He has several records of rape, I have this tech guy that can help me dig it up but I need witnesses."

"Fetch your own witnesses" Goriola answered from behind and Osaze rolled his eyes, "I can't do that" "Let me tell you how this is going to work, your Mom will appear in court with witnesses that'll testify that Chief Akinola was at home that very night. Trust me, I know how these things work, if you want to survive as a lawyer, you gotta be smart"

"I don't do False witnessing"

"Not like you haven't done it before" Goriola snapped and Osaze glared at him, he knew he referring to the false statement he gave years ago. "This is the way of survival, every man has to survive!"

Osaze punched his face and he staggered backwards, "Every man has to survive while others get taunted by what happened many years ago. You're a idiot for saying that Goriola" he snapped moving towards him and Osas touched his chest.

"For inside police station again? Una no go behave there!" A policeman shouted and Osas gave Osaze look, "Osaze!" She muttered, "Wetin happen?" She asked and Eniola rushed to meet Goriola who was already bleeding from his lips, "Are you okay, gosh, you're bleeding already"

Chief Kolade walked out followed by Chief Akinola and Morenike.

"Finally!" Eniola exhaled making Osas turn head at them.

The smirk on Chief Akinola's face pissed her off, if only she could punch him in the face. Her gaze then fell on Morenike, and she wondered why the face looked familiar.

Morenike wondered the same thing so she moved closer to her. Boom! it finally hit her, isn't she the same woman who walked up to bribe her at the police station? The same woman who destroyed her every chance of getting Justice for being raped.

Tears filled her eyes as she slowly turned towards Osaze, "Your Mom?" She asked and Osaze nodded his heart racing fast, could she have figured it out?

"You're that little girl, Osas?" Morenike called out on realizing who she was then she turned towards Osaze, "Really?"

"What?" Goriola asked in shock, "Wait...." He paused pointing at her while Eniola and Folabi were left in wonder.

Osas covered her lips with her palms, she couldn't believe her discovery, "Bengee?" She asked and Osaze shut his eyes in regret, he didn't expect her to find out this way.

Ghen Ghen, e don happen! 🤦🏼‍♀️🙆🙆🙆

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More action and drama to come! 😉