The Messenger of the Gods

             The Messenger of the gods                                               A play

                        By Lene Ododomu

                

                    CHARACTERS

King Aluri: The king of Umor ooou kingdom who is referred as "Mr. Everything"

Chief Orubo: The human right chief

Chief Ebimiyenwei: The head of the Chiefs

Chief Akinmiloju: One of the prominent     chief, a friend and ally to  chief Orubo.

Chief Akinde: Assistant head of the chiefs

Chief Akinbo: Chief of Umoru Kingdom

Ikuku: The chief priest of Umoru kingdom and successor of the retired priest

Agada: The retired chief priest and predecessor to Ikuku

Palace Guards

First Market Woman

Second Market Woman

Rev. Smith: The leader of the Missionaries

Bar-man

Customer

The Chiefs

First Chief

Second Chief

Mr. Odega

Franklin: Odega's friend

Mr. Citizen: The wise drunkard

Ebu: A farmer

Mrs Orubo: Chief Orubo's wife

Akiki: A trader:

Ebiwei: King Aluri's counterpart

Mama Ayo: Chief Akinde's wife

Durin: Akiki's wife 

                               ACT ONE

                                 Scene I

(It is now two weeks after the installation of the new king of Umoru kingdom. According to the tradition of the land, every elected or appointed king must be on a condition whereby the people will bear witness of his administration to continue or not to continue, and it is usually done on every four years. However, it is an indirect form of election because others who are interested in the throne would also come out and canvas for favour to be made as the next king if the incumbent king is opposed by majority. King Aluri is therefore set to rearrange his administration, so he finalized his plans by removing the chief priest who is also the judicial head that would be a termite to his administration and then replace him with one who will dance to the tune of his drum. Enter the king and the chiefs)

King Aluri:  Since it is not a family heritage,  (referring to the throne) I am lucky to be made as the new king of this kingdom this time. Aha.....my dreams are finally been actualized. It was not that easy for me for the past years when l struggled  for this sit of the king. If I could remember my hard times in the past years, I failed in 2003, 2007 and 2011 before I got the grace and opportunity in 2015 to sit on this throne. It is now appropriate time to retire the chief priest who I know that would be a termite to my administraton. (Talking aside, then faced the chiefs). Elders of our land, I greet you all.

The Chiefs:  We heard your greetings, our king. (The chiefs chanted as they honored the greetings from the king). And we are honored to be recognized in your presence.

King Aluri:  (Going straight to the point) It's now two weeks for my existence on this throne as the new king of this kingdom as you all know.

The Chiefs:  We know very well, our king.

King Aluri:  (Raising his two hands for thanks) Thanks the gods that you know. I won't take much of your time. I have made up my plans and concluded that I want to rearrange my administration by putting it in order.

First Chief: That will be fine then

Second Chief:  Exactly what I wanted to....

Chief Orubo: With the approval of the chiefs of this kingdom and with the token power of mine as the human right chief, you are free and liberated to say or do whatever that pleases the gods to set the horse before the cart of this kingdom, my king. Hope I am speaking your minds my fellow chiefs?

The Chiefs: (They replied as they chanted) You did, chief Orubo. 

King Aluri:  Elders of our land, I greet you once again. (He greeted again and continued) You all have spoken well especially the human right chief, chief Orubo. Thank you. It is not new to everyone in this kingdom that the chief priest is old and weak, so he cannot manage the affairs of this kingdom. Therefore, I hereby order for his retirement as soon as one week time before Umoru festival which will comes up on the 18th of September. I need not to remind you that Umoru festival is specially created and occasioned to celebrate our victory over the war with Kuru village.

First Chief: No one of us is ignorant of our traditional events in this kingdom, my king.

King Aluri: Very well then

Chief Orubo:  But my king, his old age or weakness whatever doesn't affect us in any way, why the sudden retirement? He is a very experienced and trusted old man that everyone in this kingdom relied on, and he has became a tune of our drum that we all understand to dance. For me, retiring him might be a confusion to the people that are dancing the tune of the drum.

King Aluri: Well, I have made my decision and that is final.

Chief Orubo:  But my king, me as a human right chief I still have the right to defend this old man till the very end. He is just an innocent old man.

King Aluri:  Very well then

Chief Orubo:  Then stop the sun from raising

King Aluri:  That is impossible, chief Orubo. 

Chief Orubo:  It is, your majesty.

King Aluri: How......if I may ask?

Chief Orubo:  You are the king and the head that made the decision. So you can undone it.

King Aluri:  Then I must tell you that a child that is already born does not return to his mother's womb to enjoy the food that is consumed by the mother in her stomach. 

Chief Orubo:  There is sense in what you just said now, but reincarnation can still give him the opportunity to do so.

King Aluri: Reincarnation? (Trying not to understand)

Chief Orubo:  Yes, your majesty. I am trying to tell you that there is still alternative!

King Aluri:  Well, like I said earlier....... still my decision is already made and nothing can undone it.

Chief Orubo:  Then I disagree, my king.

King Aluri:  Then remember hate speech. (Looking at chief Orubo's face without removing his....)

Chief Orubo:  Hate speech?

King Aluri:  Yes.

Chief Orubo: When did that one start?

King Aluri:  Under my administration. It is a new law that is yet to be enacted.

Chief Orubo:  Very well then.

King Aluri:  (Relaxing on his chair) It has to be well, chief Orubo.

Chief Orubo:  O.K. Let me accept for now....

King Aluri:  Accept for now? (Trying not to understand)

Chief Orubo:  Yes, accept for now because I only saw a pregnancy and don't know what the woman will born tomorrow. (Touching his white bears as he buries his face from the king)

King Aluri:  Since the chief priest is not presence with us, I want him to be summoned here first thing tomorrow morning. Meanwhile, nothing can change my words because the decision I have made is final. You may all go 

(Then the chiefs parted but with the words of chief Orubo, disagreement walks across the globe).

                            ACT ONE

                             Scene II

(In the first light of the dawn, the king sent one of his guards to summon the chief priest. Before honors the invitation, the chief priest feed the gods as usual by giving a bottle of ogogoro and colanut as he prayed to the gods to bless the people of the kingdom. In preparation, he carried his goat-skin bag, his iron staff and wore the priest hat which is made with white cloth and two feathers of eagle in the two side of it and began his walk to the palace. Enter the chief priest as he appears before the king and the chiefs in the palace)

Chief Priest:  Greetings, your majesty and the elders of Umoru kingdom. (He continues after gotten their responses) My king, I was summoned this morning by one of your guards that my attention is urgently needed in the palace. I became surprised and then said to myself that a toad does not come out in a day time, except something is after it. So I said let me come out and know what is after the toad in the broad day light.  (Then he started making an observation from the chiefs but he couldn't get any idea) 

King Aluri:  Yes, I ordered the guard to call you.

Chief Priest:  That's fine!

King Aluri: I have told the chiefs. Though it is my personal decision that the raining season is over and it is now a dry season, so the rain is expected to rest and allow a new season to take over.

Chief Priest:  My king, I don't seems to understand  you since you are speaking the words of deep meaning. Can you please let the bird out of the cage....so that it can see or know what is happening in the sky?

King Aluri:  Well, I have no much time to spend since this meeting is brief. When the moon is clouded with rain, can you expect the moon to bright the sky?

Chief Priest:  No, my king. If the moon is clouded by the rain, it means that its time has exceeded at the moment and then allows the rain to take over.

King Aluri:  Very well then.

Chief Priest:  Okay. But there is no smoke without fire, so what could be the fire of the smoke, my king?

King Aluri:  It is not hard to know.

Chief Priest:  Very well then.

King Aluri: Well, I have made up my decision that you are hereby ordered by me as the supreme head of this kingdom to retire from the seat of the chief priest in one week time before the Umoru festival.

Chief Priest:  But why, my king? Did I do anything wrong that is not pleased with the gods?

King Aluri:  No

Chief Priest:  But contrary to no, something is wrong somewhere because there is no smoke without fire.

King Aluri:  Well, I have already sang the song that the season we are right now is  a dry season and not a raining season. What I meant is that you are too old to hold the mantle of the laws of this kingdom. So go and rest and wait for the call of the gods.

Chief Priest:  Well, as it pleases the gods and the good people of this kingdom, I will obey your words as you ordered.

King Aluri:  Very well then.

Chief Priest:  As it pleases the gods. (Then he left followed by the chiefs)              

                             ACT ONE

                             Scene III

(The news of the sudden retirement of the chief priest has been spread all over the kingdom and it is a daily song on everybody's mouth in the kingdom. The news spread more in the market. 

 Enter the two market women tabling the news while returning from the market)

First woman:  Eheeeen...... my sista. You don hear the new tori wey dey happen for this kingdom?

Second woman:  Igo bi wetin I no wey them tolk sey the king don ask the eye of the gods to retire.

First woman:  Exactly my sista. Na everybodi in this kingdom shock ooo bcos it has neva happen before.

Second woman:  Notin wey persin no go fit see for this man's govament oooo. Why igo retire or suspend the eye of the gods like that?

First woman:  I wonda ooo, my sista.

Second woman: You dey tink wetin I dey tink so?

First woman:  Wetin be that?

Second woman:  I dey think say bah, the king wan retire the chief priest so that he  no go against ham in the day of the bear witness.

First woman:  (Folding her hands with surprise) Na true ooo, wetin you just talk now get sense ooo.

Second woman:  Tor. Bcos I dey scent ham.

First woman:  Well, maybe he wan be mista everytin na.

Second woman:  (With anger) Mista everytin that will spoil dis kingdom? Let's dey wait for the outcome though.

First woman: We go leave ham like dat ooo. But wetin I no be say, de new one wey he go bring, go corrupt  die in both the gods side and the judicial side.

Second woman:  (Trying to understand) Na true. 

(Both the two women have gotten to their junctions and planned to depart)

First woman:  Ok ooo, my sister. Greet de family for me ooo

Second woman: Them go hear, my sista. Greet your own for me too.

First woman: They will hear too with overwhelming!

Second woman:  This one you come speak correct English, who come teach you dat one na? ( Curious to get her response)

First woman:  Ahahaha. Why I no go speak correct English when you no say I get an educationalist like Samson as son (she laughs uncontrollably)

Second woman:  Heh-heh-heh, dat grammar big pass me ooo. (Trying to pronounce the word) e-e du du can..... (and she couldn't get it right)

First woman:  Educationalist....aha. (Laughing at her friend)

Second woman:  Oh. You mean say na educantionalist ? (Still could not get it right completely)

First woman:  No be educan. I mean educationalist.

Second woman:  I beg dey go your house, but don't forget to greet your people, oho.

First woman:  I don go, Mrs educan. (Still mimicking and laughing at her)

Second woman:  (Talking aside) See me see wahala ooo. (And to her friend) Bye bye ooo, we go see next market, oho.

                            ACT ONE

                            Scene IV

(Like the sun travelling across the sky, the news continues to circulate around the village. Enter Mr Odega and Franklin in the bar)

Mr. Odega:  Bar-man, please bring us five bottles of beer. At least  I will use that one to calm my mind. (Then he started waiting for the barman and then face his second, Franklin). Franklin, are you in this village at all?

Franklin:  Yes, I am. I didn't go anywhere.

Mr. Odega:  Okay.

Franklin:  Yea.

Mr. Odega:  Are you sure?

Franklin:  Very sure.

Mr. Odega:  Very well then.

Franklin: OK. But why did you ask?

Mr. Odega:  Have you been told about the trending news in this village?

Franklin:  Which of the news? (Pretending not to know )

Mr. Odega:  How many news do we have at present moment that is walking around the globe?

Franklin:   I don't know.

Mr. Odega:  Then you should have say that you are not in this village. (He checks  his wristwatch as he was eagerly waiting for the bar-man)

Franklin:  It is you that know that one. (He checks his wristwatch too and remind Mr Odega to call the bar-man) Please, call the bar-man na. He is taking much of our time biko.

Mr. Odega: (Ignoring him)  Please leave that one first. Let's talk about the business of the day.

Franklin: Very well then.

Mr. Odega:  Let me let the cat out of the bag.

Franklin:  You better do ooo.

Mr. Odega:  Haven't you be told about the suspension of the eye of the gods?

Franklin:  Oh, that one? I am aware of it.

Mr. Odega:  So why were you stressing me?

Franklin:  Am sorry jare. (Looking at the bar-man as he enters and drop the drinks but surprised to see that he didn't come with opener). Are we opening this bottles with bare teeth or what?

Bar-man:  I am sorry sir. I will get it for you right away. (Then he left to get the opener)

Franklin:  (Facing Mr. Odega) Can you imagine this man, for the fact that he wasted our time, he still attend to us with uncomplete service?

Mr. Odega:  Don't mind that boy or is it a man I will call him or what sef?

Franklin:  It's okay.

Mr Odega:  So let's come to the business of the day. (And the bar-man brought the opener and started opening the drinks for them as he was talking) With the way things are going right now, I don't think there will be hope for us in the future ooo. Because the new king want to be everything that is why he want to remove the chief priest and replace him with the one that will dance to the tune of his drum. You know the tradition of this land naw?

Franklin:  Yes..... very well!

Mr. Odega:  Better. The tradition of this land stated that any king who rules on the dislike of the gods and the people of this land, will be dethroned in four years time during the year of the bear witness. Then this can only be executed by the judicial head which is the chief priest. So without the support or judgement of the chief priest, no one else can dare to remove him from power.

Franklin: (Shaking his head)  Yes. Yes, that's very true.

Mr. Odega:  So now tell me, (he paused for some seconds while taking a drop of his drink, and then continues) how can it be possible if a corruptible person like him becomes the next chief priest?

Franklin:  I don't think there will be possibility because that person (referring to the next chief priest) will not dance the drum of another, except his......

Mr. Odega:  You just hit the nail on the head. (Having hand shake with him)

Franklin: Thank you!

Mr. Odega:  But I heard that the human right chief, Chief Orubo disagreed with the plan and the king reminded him the so called hate speech that is about to be enacted as a new law in this kingdom, how true it is? (Taking a drop from his drink and order for more bottles) Bar-man, please bring more drinks but mix it with palmwine and ogogoro because I'm an Ijaw man,  I can't be drinking only oyinbo made drinks. (They both burst into laughter)

Franklin:  (Responding to the question) You didn't hear it wrong. But other chiefs did not back the human right chief, that is why he couldn't succeed in the fight.

Mr. Odega:  That's Umoru for you. They don't have one voice and this thing has being a serious bane to us in this kingdom. Allow the youths to take over the affairs of this kingdom, they will not agree because they enjoy supporting the evil.

Franklin:  There is sense in what you just said about the youths.

Mr. Odega:  Yes naw. Because the youths are the only ones who are free from wearing the cloth that was borrowed from the Europeans.

Franklin:  Exactly

Mr. Odega:  If you study Ngugi Wa Thiongo's works very well, then you will get to know about the African leaders......( He paused while receiving the additional drinks brought by the bar-man) Thank you (to the bar-man and he continues).......I mean the African leaders who are also known as the neo-colonialists that crucified the Europeans like Jesus by chasing them away in a form of independence just like this saying: "Ghana must go". After chasing them away, what did they do?  They returned to them and begged to borrow their cloth and showed to their fellow Africans that they must obey them in same way they did to the whites. Can you imagine?

Franklin:  Interesting! Ngugi needs to be appreciated for telling us the origin of corruption in Africa and Umoru in particular.

Mr. Odega:  YES, he is deserved to be appreciated in a thousand times! 

Franklin:  That's true.

Mr. Odega:  So the only solution in this land now is to fight for the youths to be made as the next king in this kingdom. Because they are the only saints who are not touched with the cloth of the Europeans.

Franklin:  Let's support Ebiwei then because he is the only youth that is ready to come out for the position in the forthcoming bear witness.

Mr. Odega:  It's true. But we cannot put our hopes on an empty  basket.

Franklin:  How?

Mr. Odega:  How can you expect someone like Ebiwei who is just a youth but married two wives to be our next king?

Franklin:  Oh , that's true! I was even told that his father is not in support, is that true?

Mr. Odega:  Yes. That man is a wise man that is why he against the idea of polygamy.

Franklin:  What I can say is that having a youth as a king in this kingdom can only be possible in the next another four or eight years like 2027 or 2031.

Mr. Odega:  (Calling the bar-man to come for his money) Bar-man come ooo. We are about leaving.

(Re-enter the bar-man as he came for the money. He stood before them as he rest his two hands on his back)

Mr. Odega:  How much is your money?

Bar-man: Just N5,600 sir. (Telling him with smiling face)

Franklin:  (Imitating him) Just N5,600. Did you just say that?

Mr. Odega:  Leave ham na. Him tink say to get money in this village dey easy when the king has claimed everything.

Franklin:  Young man, don't put the JUST okay because that amount you just mentioned now is a very big one as far as the situation of this community is concerned.

Bar-man:  O.K. Sir.

Mr. Odega:  Better ooo. Because Mr. Everything has claimed all the properties in this kingdom as he appointed himself as the minister of food which has never happened before. (He put his left hand on his pocket and  brought out the money ) Here is your money, take it.

Bar-man:  Oh, thank you Sir! (then he pack their bottles and took them to their positions)

Franklin: You are welcome

Mr. Odega:  Can we go?

Franklin:  Sure and thank you for the drinks.

Mr. Odega:  It's nothing. Besides what are friends for.....

(Exit the bar)

                             ACT TWO

                               Scene I

(The people; both the king, the outgoing priest, the incoming priest and the chiefs gathered in the shrine as the day of  the retirement of the outgoing priest finally comes. The local hunters started shooting their local guns (booom......booom.....bloom), the drummers drummed (goodoom.....goodoom....goodoom), then the singers came out to sing and while the dancers started  dancing  to honor the outgoing chief priest as it is demanded by the tradition. The head of the chiefs came forward to stand at the center of the congregation, then the drummers stopped drumming followed by the singers and the dancers)

Head of the Chiefs:  Greetings my king, my fellow chiefs, the outgoing chief priest, the incoming priest and the  people of Umoru, I greet you all. (The people answered and he continues) Today is a very remarkable day for us to honor the retirement of the chief priest. Therefore, by the power bestowed on me as the head of the chiefs in this kingdom, I hereby permit the outgoing chief priest to give us his last speech. (Then he faced the chief priest) Please, give us your last words, great one.

(Then the drummers began their drumming and stopped when the chief priest came forward to stand before the oracle)

Chief Priest:  Well, the head of the chiefs has already greeted you all, so my new greeting is no more needed. (Then he faced the oracle) If this decision of my retirement is accepted by you, (refering to the gods) then I have no right to question your words but accept your wishes. 

(Then the thunder began to blubber and it blubbered three times. This caused a serious confusion among the people) And you, Ikuku, (talking to the new chief priest) please this mantle that you are about to carry with the name of the gods, you are expected to handle it with care and trustworthy because the birth rights of the people are under it protection. So live according to the direction and voice of the gods. (Then he hand over the instruments of the priest to him which includes the goat-skin bag, the bids which is made with lion teeth and the staff) 

Ikuku:  (He received the instruments with smiling face) Your words will be abided, great one. 

Chief Priest:  Very well then

Ikuku:  Thanks to the gods and you!

Chief Priest:  Not me, but only the gods and the king who made you...... Though I am a living ancestor to you, so follow the the footsteps of me and the invisible ones (refering to the past priests who are late)

Ikuku:  Your words will be abided, great one.

Chief Priest:  Very well then. We may proceed to the oath taking and it will be performed by the king. (Then faced the king) My king, it's under your power and duty to present the oath of the oracle to him.

King Aluri: (He clears his throat) Very well then

Chief Priest:  All right

King Aluri:  Where is the oath taking place?

Head of the Chiefs:  (Pointing at the Iroko tree) At the back of the iroko tree where the oracle is placed. I'm I right, great one? (confirming from the old chief priest)

 Chief Priest:  Very correct

King Aluri:  Then follow me, great one .(Talking to Ikuku)

Ikuku:  Here we are, my king. (Looking around the place)

King Aluri:  Yes. Now listen to me, great one. It's between me and you here for the oath taking. So I want to let you know that there is nothing like oath taking. (The king holds his right ear in a sign of warning) Did you hear me?

Ikuku:  Yes I do, my king.

King Aluri:  You know why I appointed you to replace the outgoing priest? (Surveiling at the people to know if they are paying attention to what they are doing, but no one seems to pay attention) 

Ikuku:  Yes, I do. Is it not to make you everything?

King Aluri:  Exactly, great one, (trying to change the name 'great one') no..... Ikuku. (They both burst into laughter)

Ikuku:  I will make sure that everything you wanted will be achieved. Meanwhile, have you implemented the hate speech because that's the only remedy or tool we can use to subdue people like Chief Orubo?

King Aluri:  No, not yet.

Ikuku:  Then you have to be fast about it, my king (touching his bears)

King Aluri: I will.

Ikuku:  Very well then. I think we can go now because we have spent the expected time for the oath taking. Let the people waiting for us should not think that we are doing aside what we are here for.

King Aluri:  That's true. Meanwhile, bear in mind that you didn't take the oath. You are not under the law of the gods or caged by them, so you are free and liberated to  adhere or act according to my instructions, not the gods or the oracle, okay.

Ikuku:  Noted, my king.

King Aluri:  Very well then.

Ikuku:  Okay

King Aluri:  (Giving a suggestion) Before we reappeared in their presence, (refering to the people waiting for them) pretend that the oracle has possessed you. (Giving him a sample to imitate like one who is controlling by the holy spirit).

Ikuku:  Well planned, my king. (Then he started turning and turning and hits the staff on the ground and began to speak incantations while coming out before the people)

(Re-enter the people waiting for them)

The Chiefs: (Chanting him with eulogy) We have seen the face of the great oracle. We have seen the face of the gods. We have seen the face of our ancestors. May you be like an egg in their hands (refering to the gods). May you live according to their words and direction. May you live long, may you live long, (chanting audibly) may you live long.

Head of the Chiefs: Traditionally, we have done everything accordingly to install our new chief priest and it is expected that the former priest will go on exile for thirty years to avoid persuading the current priest.

Chief Priest: You are right, Chief Ebimiyenwei. I am not a duckling to the tradition of this land, but a fully grown up duck that knows everything.

Head of the Chiefs: Very well then. The elders and the people of Umoru wish you safe journey and happy stay in your new home.

Chief Priest: I thank you all. May the gods give you peace.

Chief Orubo: Great one, I must confess that I will personally miss you, especially your trustworthiness. I have a knowledge of the secret that behind your retirement and it is not the wishes of the gods which I know very well. I will not make it known but when river gets hot, the snails will come out without anybody inviting them.   I am not a seer like you but my words are like a prophecy that no matter how long it may take, the hiding secret must be exposed. Farewell, great one.

(Immediately chief Orubo done talking, king Aluri and Ikuku starting looking at him with bad eyes and he noticed it but that does not bother him, instead he started smiling which injured them more)

Chief Priest: Chief, our elders have a saying that a man who love the truth is the savior that carry the world on his head. I am glad that the world is in your head and the gods will assist you to carry it. The peace of the gods will be with you and your household. Thank you, chief Orubo.

(The chief priest left the shrine as he  prepared to embark on the journey with his family, then the chiefs began to chant him with eulogy while leaving for the journey)

      

                         

                            ACT TWO

                            Scene II

(Since after the retirement of the old chief priest, confusion has been walking across the globe. However, people with truth are hitting the nail on the head that the king want to be everything in the land that is why he is trying all he could to place 

people like Ikuku, the new chief priest that will dance to the tune of his drum. Among one of the people who knows the truth is Mr. Citizen, a drunkard but always preserve the truth even though he is drunk to stupor.

 Enter Mr. Citizen in the bar)

Mr. Citizen: (The people began to hail him as he enters the bar) Thank you, thank you and thank you. (Looking around for the bar-man and he found him) Bar-man, please come....come.... come.

(Enter the bar-man)

Bar-man:  What do you want sir? (Bringing out the list of drinks) Here's our list of drinks sir. We have star, guider, bullet, hero, orijin and local drinks like palmwine, ogogoro, etc. So which one do you want sir?

Mr. Citizen:  Which one is etc? Give me star and goat meat pepe soup.

Bar-man:  The drinks, like how many sir, I mean the bottles?

Mr. Citizen:  Don't stress me ooo, this boy.

Bar-man:  Sorry sir.

Mr. Citizen:  Sorry for yourself, not me.

Bar-man:  (He nud his head) I am still waiting sir.

Mr. Citizen:  Waiting for what?

Bar-man:  The number of drinks sir.

Mr. Citizen:  You for kukuma give me all the drinks in this bar na. Give me ten bottles joor.

Bar-man:  Ahaaa. Ten bottles for only you?

Mr. Citizen:  No na, for me and your ancestors. You are funny ooo, this boy.

Bar-man:  I am sorry sir.

Mr. Citizen:  Sorry for yourself young man. Less I forget, please serve all the people in this bar with one bottle each. 

(Then they started hailing him more as he ordered drinks for them, and the bar-man left to get the drinks for them)

exit the bar man

Mr. Citizen: (Talking to the people) I can't deny the fact that I am a drunkard, but I want you to know that a one eyed man still have the favour of other to see. I can drink to stupor, but I can never include the part of truth that will save this kingdom from insanity. (Anticipating for his drinks and pepe soup) A woman cannot be glad without seen a penis. Where is this bar-man na. (Calling the bar-man) Young man, bring me my penis na....(all the people in the bar burst into uncontrollably laughter) Yes na. Abi na lie I dey talk? 

(then one of the people in the bar replied him NO and he continues) No be lie na but na the truth I dey Tok.

Re-enter the bar-man as he brought his order

Bar-man:  Here are your drinks and the pepe soup sir (dropping them one after the other)

Mr. Citizen:  Na now you come. (Then directing two of his friends that just entered the bar to sit with him) Ahaa, my good friends, Segun and Abbey, please come sit with me na. (Then he ordered the bar-man to serve them 3bottles each)

Bar-man:  Here is it sir. (Dropping them on the table)

Mr. Citizen: (Thanking the bar-man for job well done) Thank you jare

Abbey:  Thank you my good friend.

Mr Citizen:  Don't mention, my friend. Less I forget, I was talking about the current state of this land and I was saying that we will suffer like the Israelites who were under the captivity of the Egyptians, that is if we don't do the needful by telling the truth.

Segun: And could that truth be?

Mr. Citizen: It is simple to know my dear (drinking his beer)

Abbey:  Then let us know now

Mr. Citizen:  (He became changed immediately he finished six bottles in just 40 minutes) The truth is, we cannot grow in this kingdom without wiping sweeping away the king and his other members like Ikuku in particular who is conniving with him to frustrate this land.

Abbey:  How?

Segun:  Yes, how can that be possible?

Mr. Citizen:  It is very simple, my dear friends! (He became changes more, and the two friends were already thinking that he is drunk to stupor) I know what you are thinking right now. You are thinking ignorantly that I am no longer with my complete sense. But I must let you know that I am not........

Segun:  Okay

Mr. Citizen:  Yes

Segun:  But we didn't say so naw

Mr. Citizen:  Yes. You actually did not say so but I am studying your minds psychologically, and you know that psychology is what I read in school......

Abbey:  Hmmnn, Prof......

Mr. Citizen:  Yea. You can say that again, I love the word "Prof"!

Segun: (Hailing him)  Prof. oooo.....

Mr. Citizen: You can say that again. (Then returning to the main discussion) So what I want to tell you is that, let protest and bear witness against him in the forthcoming year of bear witness.

Abbey:  Protest and bear witness against him?

Mr. Citizen:  Yes

Segun:  But remember hate speech ooo.

Mr. Citizen:  (Ignoring the word "hate speech") Tahaa, forget that one. This is what I have been saying that we cannot fix the problem of this kingdom by having unrelated hands, that is disunity. (Showing his two fingers) How I wish we have two, I mean just two of Chief Urobo, the human right chief who is always standing for the truth. Another painful part is that the people of Umoru are born with the blood of Esau in the Bible who sold his birth right in exchange of food from his younger brother, Jacob. Just like him you will see that when the time of the bear witness comes, the king will close their mouths with money just maybe N2,000 or N3,000 each then you will see them testifying for his good deeds and peaceful reign in this kingdom.

Abbey:  (Agreeing with him) That is true.

Mr. Citizen:  Fine then

Segun: (Hyping him) Well said Prof.

Mr. Citizen: Thank you! But I have not finish ooo. (Then he continue talking) So in the next maybe two or three days time, the money will finish and they will begin to regret their mistakes. (He called the bar-man to come for his money) How much is your money?

Bar-man:  N16,600 Sir

Mr. Citizen:  (Bringing out the money from his pocket and it was more than the amount mentioned) Here is your money and you can keep the change.

Bar-man:  (With excitement voice) Oh, thank you Sir!

Mr. Citizen: Thank God.

(The people thank him too)

Abbey: All what you said is the bitter truth but my question is, how will that plan be possible?

Segun: Yes, how?

Mr. Citizen: Like I said before, it is very simple if we can have one voice and reject the curse of Esau.

Abbey: We hear you sir. Let's wait until the day comes.

Mr. Citizen: No problem then. But it is better to prepare ourselves before that day comes. (Trying to stand up to go home) Please, lead me home. (Talking to his two friends because he is already drunk)

Segun: O.K . No problem, we will take you home.

(Then they took him home)

Exit the bar

                         ACT THREE

                            Scene I

(While the people are waiting for the Umoru festival which is just seven days to come, person like Ebiwei who is also interested in the sit of the king has started announcing to the people that they should not keep quiet but open their mouths to speak the truth in the day of the bear witness. He walks from places to places to make this announcement and then stopped at the market road)

Ebiwei:  People of Umoru kingdom, I greet you all. Please, listen attentively to what I am about to say and don't pretend that you can't hear me because I am audible enough to be heard. I don't need to remind you that the day of the bear witness is around the corner. Infact, it is knocking at us on the door. So I want you all to come out massively to say your minds to either continue or not continue with the administraton of king Aluri. You all know the hardship and the tough time  that we are experiencing under this man's (referring to king Aluri) government, and this is happening to us as a result of our inpatients and gullibility. We danced away our joy and glory when we ignorantly molested our former late king  with anger. We ignorantly saw him as enemy of our dear kingdom, Umoru. We were calling him all sort of names thinking that he was our problem. Then we started chanting 'chai nanawei' to praise king Aluri not knowing that we were inviting soldier ants into our homes. Oh, our dear king, Jaja. Forgive us in your grave for we don't know what we were doing. We were deceived by our this so called king Aluri to make him as king in 2015 and now we can see the result. Our rights are restricted. Our happiness are caged with sadness because his name is Mr Everything. If you speak the truth, you will die and nobody to protect you because the custodian of our right is enjoying to dance the tune of his drum. Therefore, wake up from your slumbers and uncage your rights and the future of your generation.  Don't forget that I am interested to be the next king of this kingdom to save you all! Please, bear that in mind. Thank you! (then he walks away)

(As he was given this message, two market women were listening to him while returning from the market. Then they both started  looking at him and burst into laughter )

First woman:  (Mimicking him with nose) Hmmm, my sister, can this one become our king?

Second woman: (Putting hands on her chest) This one? (pointing him with one finger)

First woman: Yes naw. Or you didn't hear what he just said?

Second woman:  I was listening to him

First Woman:  Fine. As irresponsible he is , he is still planning to become the next king of this kingdom? 

Second woman:  Tor, he want to...... according to him.

First woman:  Person that is encouraging polygamy to the youths?

Second woman:  He cannot be our king, my sister. He will ruin the destiny of this kingdom more.

First woman:  We should bear witness in favour of king Aluri then.

Second woman:  You are right, my sister.

First woman:  (Changing the topic) Less I forget, how are your people? ( refering to her family)

Second woman:  They were fine when I left home, but I don't know their current state.

First woman:  You will meet them the same way you left them. (Praying for her)

Second woman:  Amen oooo..... because the way this kingdom is now, nobody is safe  oooo. Terrorists everywhere. How yours?

First woman:  They are very much fine, just hunger.

Second woman: Hmnn, this hunger ehen na for everywhere ooo.

First woman:  Na true ooo, my sister. Mr. Everything doesn't want us to eat food except his family and those who are dancing the tune of his evil drum.

Second woman:  Hmmnn. It is well ooo

First woman:  It is well indeed, my sister!

Second woman:  I was told that he gave himself the minister of food, is it true? (refering to the king)

First woman:  It is true naw. Not only that but he siezed all the foods that were under the watch of the former minister of food and claimed them to  his personal use. The worse is that he was even planning to jail the man, but he luckily escaped to an unknown village. So he is no where to be found now.

Second woman:  Can you imagine and he is calling himself Mr. enemy of corruption.

First woman:  (Making fun of him) Mr. enemy of corruption ke or Mr. corruption..... 

(They both burst into laughter and then go on separated ways)

            

                          ACT FOUR 

                             Scene I

(The long awaiting Umoru festival has finally arrived. It is occasionally celebrated on every 28th of September in a year and the one of this year conflux with the day of the bear witness. However, the oracle called ekokun will be given a due honor and thanks for given victory to the people of Umoru. Ekokun is the god or deity of justice of the Umoru people of the Niger Delta region. It is also perceived as the spiritual foundational force for combating evil.  It's force can only be used in defence or to correct an injustice, and only by people who are in harmony with the universe. The symbol of the devine force is the leopard, panther and lion. The oracle has both a philosophical and spiritual dimension, the latter of which has been more prominent during the war with Ikuru kingdom. In belief, the oracle dictates the Umoru philosophical principles of war and the oracle force is believed to be able to provide spiritual attributes to Umoru fighters. The philosophical aspect includes elements of a just war. It conduct for just wars dictates that the only justified cause of war is self-defence. Therefore, the oracle force can only be used to correct an injustice and only by people who are considered in harmony with the universe.  In the day of the festival, the drummers drummed, the singers sing and the dancers danced with difference kinds of steps to honor the oracle. Also, the regatta groups came out and performed in the river with their local boats, and a group of people both male and female started parading around the village. As usual, the rain started falling as they are parading by singing the songs of the oracle, and this is a sign to show that the oracle is walking with them. After the parade, they both returned to the shrine to offer thanks to the oracle for given them victory in the war. Then the next agenda is announced and the people became prepared for the time of the bear witness.

 Enter the king, the chiefs, the chief priest and the people in the shrine and then Ikuku came forward to welcome the people)

Ikuku: People of Umoru kingdom, I greet you all. (The people answered and then he continues)  I want to specially welcome you all for the today's occasion which is marked to honor and thank the great oracle for given us the victory in our previous battle with the people of Ikuru kingdom. Also, don't forget that today is the day of the bear witness to either against or favour the administraton of our dear king as the custom and traditions of this land demands. (Then he stretched his right hand to the people to come out by ten in a group to give their witness) See my hand, this hand represent the hand of the oracle, so come out in order to speak your minds.

Chief Orubo: My people, I stand by you as the human right chief of this kingdom to defend your rights. Therefore, don't keep quiet or shut your mouths down if you are not pleased with the administraton of our king. Today is the only chance you have to make a choice for the progress and peace of this kingdom. Remind you, after today you won't have such opportunity but wait for another four years. Thank you.

First Chief:  (Continues from where chief Orubo stopped) I think chief Orubo had said everything that is needed to be said,

 Aso speak your mind. Thank you!

Ikuku:  (Dropping the hand without allowing all the people to complete their witnesses) The bear witness is over! Therefore, I hereby announced that none of the people said ill against the reign of our king and this mean that he is the taste of the people.

Chief Orubo: How?

Ikuku:  Chief Orubo, please respect the voice of the oracle (refering to himself).

Chief Orubo:  Which gods if I may ask?

Ikuku:  (Starring at him with bad eyes)  I am not in the position to answer that question.

Chief Orubo: You have to, great one. (Drawing attention of the king)

King Aluri:  (Taking a breath) Chief Orubo, please don't claim because you are a human right chief that knows everything. Respect yourself and reciprocate that same respect to the eye of the gods. You know very well that he is the judicial head and whatever decision he execute, it will remain final.

Chief Orubo: Oh, is that why you made him as the eye and judicial head? Very well then! But I am not in support with his modus operandi. (Then he left home with anger)

(Exit the shrine)

                           ACT FOUR

                              Scene II

(Enter Chief Urobo returns home with anger )

Chief Orubo: (Soliloquizing) Can you imagine. How can the chief priest do things like that. Are we not to decide if we want the administration of the king to be continued or not. Why must he put it   as order that no one says ill about the king, then he finalized by given him a go ahead with his administration. I saw it coming that the reason why the first priest was removed, was because of the fact that the new king need a corrupt person like Ikuku who can dance the tune of his drum. Now, he has started dancing it already .

(Enter Mrs. Orubo serving the husband food)

Mrs Urobo: What's that thing that is troubling you, my husband?

Chief Orubo. Nothing

Mrs Urubo. It can't be nothing my husband. Please talk to me, I am your wife.

Chief Orubo. Woman, don't put fuel on the already burning fire.

Mrs Urubo. How my husband?

Chief Orubo: Where were you when they were doing the bear witness?

Mrs Urubo: Oh.....that one? (showing no concern)

Chief Orubo: Yes.....that one. (Imitating her)

Mrs Urubo: Because I don't want to stress myself naw (getting him more angry)

Chief Orubo But what about the pain tomorrow?

Mrs Urubo: (Pretending not to understand) Pain? 

Chief Orubo: Yes ma'am.

Mrs. Urubo: I don't know.

Chief Orubo: Very well then. Don't tell me you don't know.

Mrs Urubo: I don't

Chief Orubo: Then I must remind you that you are among the people that are planting the pain in this kingdom. I don't even need to remind you that this kingdom lost her peace and harmony ever since king Aluri became the king. We don't have any other option to stop him except the day of bear witness. If all of us come out massively and say our mind, at least there will be a limit of taking our rights for granted by the chief priest who is the judicial head. Don't you know that only a word of yours lost thousands? We are the problem to ourselves, so let no one should complain to me that he or she is tired of the administration of king Aluri.

Mrs. Urobo: (Showing a sign of regret) It's very true.

Chief Orubo: Very well then. Don't complain but endure to wait for the another four years , then you can come out and say your mind to vote him out.

Mrs. Urubo: Sure (giving him water to watch his hands)

Chief Orubo: Very well then. I will call you to come and take your plates when I'm done eating.

Mrs Urubo: All right my dear husband.

(Then she left)

               

                            ACT FIVE

                             Scene I

(King Aluri sees his administration in kind of under threat by some people like Chief Orubo who always opposes him. So he decided to execute the hate speech into law.

 Enter king Aluri and chief Akinde in the palace)

King Aluri: Greetings to you, chief Akinde.

Chief Akinde: (Removing his cap ) Greetings to you too, my king.

King Aluri: Chief Akinde....

Chief Akinde: Yes my king.

King Aluri: I officially called you here to tell you something.

Chief Akinde: (Shaking his head)  Okay

King Aluri: Chief Akinde, I know you are one of the chiefs who could understand me.

Chief Akinde: That's true

King Aluri: Fine! Then I want you to be on my side, not Chief Orubo who is trying to tear this kingdom apart. You know very well that he is the only one who is proving righteous that is always being on a contrary to my decision. So for me to quench the stubborn fire on his head, I want person like you as the assistant head of the chiefs to be on my side.

Chief Akinde: That is a very big request, my king.

King Aluri: (Bringing out bounce of money) I know , that is why I prepared myself before you attended to my invitation. Take this money and use it for whatever thing you want. (Bringing out another money) Use this one to convince more of the chiefs and I promise to do more even by giving you two plots of land.

Chief Akinde: My king, are you for real?

King Aluri: Yes

Chief Akinde:  This is much, my king.

King Aluri: It's nothing before me. so take it and do what I told you.

Chief Akinde: That's not a problem

King Aluri: Very well then. Now I want to implement the hate speech into law. Therefore, I want you to try all you could to convince the chiefs and leave the part of the eye of the gods. I made him so he can't be on a contrary to my decision. I will go to the shrine myself to inform him though he is aware of the plan.

Chief Akinde: That's good!

King Aluri: Yes. We don't have any other means to quench the fire on chief Orubo's head except that law. If we execute it into law and he disrespect it, we will use it as opportunity to jail him.

Chief Akinde: Well planned, my king.

King Aluri: Nobody is above the law of this land, and I am very sure  he will try to disrespect this law as stubborn he is.

Chief Akinde: Aha. Chief Orubo is very stubborn ooo.

King Aluri: The stubborn fly follows the corpse to the grave, so he will follow the corpse one day. 

Chief Akinde: Let me make it snappy to meet the other chief.

King Aluri: That's fine. You may go.

Chief Akinde: Thank you my king. (Then he leaves the palace)

                              ACT FIVE

                               Scene II

(Enter Chief Akinde visiting the head of the chiefs in his house)

Head of the Chiefs: (Coming out from his room to the parlour to attend to Chief Akinde's visit) Chief, this one you visit me this time of the day hope I'm safe?

Chief Akinde:  (Laughing) Aha, chief you are safe oooo. Infact, you are safer as long as this kingdom is concerned.

Head of the Chiefs: O.K. ooo. You say so

Chief Akinde: Yes chief

Head of the Chiefs: So what can I offer this august visit?

Chief Akinde:  Anything, chief.

Head of the Chiefs: Anything?

Chief Akinde: Yes, anything sir.

Head of the Chiefs: Very well then. (Calling his son, Powei.) Where is this boy......Powei oo. (Answering his call) Please come oo. (Then Powei came in) Please check under my bed you will see a bottle of dry gin, it is called izini in ordinary language, please bring it for me. Also check my cupboard you will see colanut, please bring it too. (Then he left)

Chief Akinde: Chief, I said anything but I didn't mean  you should offer me the most expensive things you just mentioned now.

Head of the Chiefs: That's nothing, chief.

Chief Akinde: You said so

Head of the Chiefs: Yes. So let come back to the business of the day. We all know that a toad does not come out in a day time except something is after it. So what is after the toad, if I may ask?

Chief Akinde: Well, I brought a message from the king. (Bringing out his own share the king sent to him) The king directed me to give you this........

Head of the Chiefs: What is the content of this thing? (Refering to the money that is wrapped with banana leaf) Let me know because I don't want to die like Dele Giwa oooo?

Chief Akinde: Ahaaa..... chief, you don't trust me again? Who is the Dele Giwa you just mentioned now?

Head of the Chiefs: So you don't know Dele Giwa?

Chief Akinde: Dele Giwa?

Head of the Chiefs: Yes, Dele Giwa.

Chief Akinde: I don't know him ooo. Tell me about him.

Head of the Chiefs: You much pay money for it then.

 (Powei brought the things he sent him for and drop them on the table for them and left)

Chief Akinde: That's not a problem, chief.

Head of the Chiefs: Dele Giwa was a renowned Nigerian journalist who was killed with a letter bomb just like this thing you wrapped for me all because he wanted to expose the secret of the former head of state and his wife. Dele Giwa was killed by this parcel bomb in his home at Ikeja, Lagos, while in his study with Kayode Soyinka, on Sunday October 19, 1986. The assassination occurred two days after he had been interviewed by State Security

Service (SSS) officials. It was a well plotted with a very clear mission of terminating him completely. It was a brutal technology method of assassination and a plan well executed. It was a bomb in the form of a letter like I said earlier. A kind of death that was unprecedented in the nation's history. Though the drum of the lonely night was later drummed by his assistant.

Chief Akinde: Oh, is like I heard that story.

Head of the Chiefs: It's possible. So tell me the content of this wrapped gift from the king.

Chief Akinde: Don't fear, chief. Just open it and see for yourself, trust me.

Head of the Chiefs: Very well then. (Collecting the gift from him and opened it) It's money! What's it for, chief?

Chief Akinde: Well, the king asked me to give you.

Head of the Chiefs: (Wrapping back and putting it under his chair) Give it to me?

Chief Akinde: Yes, chief.

Head of the Chiefs: What for, I ask again?

Chief Akinde: Well, the king need your help and support.

Head of the Chiefs: My support?

Chief Akinde:  Yes, your support.

Head of the Chiefs: That's not a problem then. He has it already!

Chief Akinde: So fast, chief?

Head of the Chiefs: Yes ooo. When money sings, poor man dances without the go ahead by money.

Chief Akinde: That's true, chief. (They both burst into laughter)

Head of the Chiefs: But you haven't brief me the kind of support and help the king need from me.

Chief Akinde: That's true, chief. Well, the king want you to be on his side. He has finalized a plan to execute the hate speech into law and he needs a powerful person like you to reinforce the decision. If you can adhere this, he promised to reward you with one plot of land.

Head of the Chiefs: It's a big tax though but I have no option than to adhere the wishes of the king. So that's not a problem, chief.

Chief Akinde: Oh. Thank you chief! I will deliver your mind to him. Beg to leave sir.

Head of the Chiefs: Very well then. My regard to your family.

Chief Akinde: They will hear, chief.

(Chief Akinde left the head of the chiefs house with full of happiness)

                           ACT FIVE

                            Scene III

(Enter king Aluri visiting Ikuru in the shrine)

King Aluri: (Instructing the guards to present the gifts he brought for Ikuku) Bring it out here. Great one, I have this token gift for you.

Ikuku:  My king, you called these plenty gifts token gift?

King Aluri: Yes, I do.

Ikuku: No oo. For me it's not my king. (Naming the gifts) Bulky money, two goats, male for that matter, clothes, gold's, infact I can't name them all!

King Aluri: (Laughing at him) Ahaaa. But this is just a token, great one.

Ikuku: It's not oo, my king.

King Aluri: You said so

Ikuku:  What should I offer the august visit by his majesty?

King Aluri: Don't bother, instead I brought you an assignment to work on.

Ikuku: What could that be my king? Let me guess, the execution of the hate speech into law?

King Aluri: Yes. But how do you know?

Ikuku: I must know, my king. I am one of your drum dancers and the most championship one for that matter! So I understand the tune of the drum even no matter how it changes. 

King Aluri: Very well then

Ikuku: (Giving him an eye signal to send the guards away) When a woman is in labour, it is not all the time that the husband will be there at the scene but traditionally he must be asked to excuse the midwives. So do the needful, my king.

King Aluri: (Adhering the advice) You may excuse us, guards. (Then they leave)

Ikuku: Perfect, my king. Now let draw the map of how we are going to actualize the plan. I will suggest that you should convince some of the chiefs, especially chief Akinde, the assistant head of the chiefs to be on your support. Chief Akinde is a greed man so he can easily be used to infect others. I don't really know much about the head of the chiefs. So what do you think, my king?

King Aluri: Well planned! I can now believe that you are truly the championship dancer of the tune of my drum. Meanwhile, just as you planned I have already practicalized the idea and been able to convince the greed chief Akinde and head of the chiefs to be on our side.

Ikuku:  (Praising the king) Hmmm, the camelion and lion himself. But how did you put the head of the chiefs in your armpit?

King Aluri:  Oh that one........he is even more corrupt and greed than that chief Akinde.

Ikuku:  You mean it?

King Aluri:  Yes. I sent chief Akinde to him with a gift of money and he became convinced without showing  a disapproval. Can you imagine.......a whole head of the chief.  Well, that does not concern me. My mean concern is to succeed with my plans to subdue chief Orubo and become everything in this kingdom.

Ikuku:  That's not a problem, my king. You have done your part, so leave the rest for me. As far as I am concerned as the eye of the gods and judicial head of this kingdom, I shall execute the hate speech into law and subdue the stubbornness of chief Orubo. So just go home and present it before the council of the chiefs. You know na, I shall be the one to finalize it.

King Aluri: (Leaving) I will, great one. 

(Exit the shrine)

                              ACT SIX

                               Scene I

(Enter the chiefs in the palace prepared for the implementation  of the hate speech into law by the king)

King Aluri: (Looking around for chief Orubo who has not come for the meeting) Where is chief Orubo? (asking the  chiefs)

Chief Akinde:  He must be on his way, my king.

Chief Akinmiloju: It must be true, my king.

King Aluri: Are you not his friend? 

Chief Akinmiloju: Without denial, I am.

King Aluri: Then why are you not aware of his late coming for the meeting?

Chief Akinmiloju: Because I was summoned urgently and it might be likewise him too.

King Aluri: (Seeing chief Orubo entering the palace) Oh, that's him coming.

(Enter chief Urobo)

Chief Orubo: My elders and my king, please pardon me for coming late. I just want you to understand that I was summoned urgently which I must say that this meeting is an impromptu and emergency meeting.

Ikuku: So I am too small to be recognized, right?

Chief Orubo: What is that suppose to mean?

Ikuku: Because I am the eye of the gods and judicial head in this kingdom, so I am deserved to be recognized even before the chiefs.

Chief Orubo: It is you that know that one, me I don't know.

King Aluri: (Trying to intervene in the argument) Enough of this. You are not kids or women rather, so why are you behaving this way? Please it's enough. Thank you.

Head of the Chiefs: Your majesty, we are looking forward for the purpose of this meeting.

King Aluri: Well, I must first of all say that a kingdom without a guiding law cannot be a responsible one, therefore, it is expected that the person who is holding the mantle of authority in the kingdom must establish the law to put it (referring to the kingdom) in order. Elders of our land, I greet you all. (They answered and he continues) I have been observing some illegal actions taking by some elders in this land which you all know that will affect the future of this kingdom. This is happening because there is no proper guiding law to embargo the act. As the head and king of this land, I hereby implement the HATE SPEECt into law before the elders of Umoru kingdom and also wait on the eye of the gods to execute it with immediate effect. Thank you.

Head of the Chiefs: (He hums) Your majesty, the elders of our land heard your voice. But as the customs and traditions demand, the prominent chiefs of this kingdom will make their decisions of either against or support before the execution by the eye of the gods. Therefore I call on chief Akinde, chief Orubo, chief Akinmiloju, chief peretuwa, chief Akinbo , chief Gada and chief Abayomi to speak their minds. (Pointing at Akinde) Start with you, chief Akinde.

Chief Akinde: Well, if not for the demand of the custom and tradition of this land I should have say that there is no point or need to ask for our opinions because.... because.....(stammering while attacked by chief Orubo) because....... (then he stops and confront him) Chief Orubo, why are you interrupting my words? 

Chief Orubo: Because I can't allow an unjust words to mislead the raising sun.

Chief Akinde: Chief Orubo, you don't have the right to interrupt me.

Chief Orubo: Which right?

Chief Akinde: I don't need to tell you but bear in mind that you are nothing before me.

Chief Orubo: (Mocking him) Nothing before you? Maybe you don't know what you are talking about, a whole me (beating his chest), Chief Orubo.

Head of the Chiefs: (Intervening) Enough of this, chiefs. What is the meaning of this? What are you trying to teach the junior chiefs.......Or are you teaching them that you are incompetent to lead them?

Chief Orubo: Me personally, I am teaching them how to know and challenge the unjust act of the darkness.

Chief Akinde: And who is that darkness referring to?

Chief Orubo: A sinner knows himself when the sin he committed is masked by darkness. 

Head of the Chiefs:  I will not repeat myself, but let this warning should be the last. So stop this nonsense. 

King Aluri: (Indirectly putting the blame in chief Orubo) Can you see now. No see for yourselfs. This is happening because there is no guiding law to embargo this nonsense.

Head of the Chiefs: We are seeing, my king. It must stop. Please, I want chief Akinde to complete his............

Chief Akinde: Very well then. So as I was saying before the interruption by some noise makers

 (Chief Orubo attacks him again)

Chief Orubo: And what is that suppose to mean......It is you that is a noise maker, not me.

Chief Akinde: (Laughs) But I didn't mention anybody's name. (He continues) Let me not say much, I support the hate speech to be enacted as a guiding law of this land. Thank you. (Starring at chief Orubo with bad eyes)

Head of the Chiefs: (Pointing at the next chief) Chief Orubo, your turn.

Chief Orubo: I stand for the truth and nothing, I mean nothing can deviate me from calling a spade a spade. We are no longer under the true watch of the gods of this land because humans have manipulated everything. I won't say more than this.

Head of the Chiefs: But are you in support or against?

Chief Orubo: Well, I am a law of myself. A lion can rule in the dry land but it can never rule a rodent in the sky. I am a law of myself.

Head of the Chiefs: Very well then. (Ignoring him and pointing at another chief) Chief Akinmiloju, please your turn.

Chief Akinmiloju: In short, I  am not in support.

King Aluri: (Very angering with him) Oh, you are not in........

Chief Akinmiloju: You heard me, your majesty.

King Aluri: Very well then.

Head of the Chiefs: (Ignoring chief Akinmiloju and pointing at another chief) 

Chief Peretuwa: It is a wise idea, I am fully in support.

Head of the Chiefs: (Next chief) Chief Akinbo, your turn.

Chief Akinbo: (Stammering) A....a...a...ve.....ve..... very....gu....I...I mean good idea. So ...so...so I'm in support.

Head of the Chiefs: Very well then. (Point at the next chief) Chief Gada, please your turn.

Chief Gada: I am in support.

Head of the Chiefs: You, chief Abayomi.

Chief Abayomi: I am in support, too.

Head of the Chiefs: Very well then. Since the majorities are in support, I hereby present it before the eye of the gods. (The he faces Ikuku) Over to you, great one.

Ikuku: With the approval of the gods, I hereby execute the hate speech as a law of this land.

Head of the Chiefs: Traditionally, we have done everything needful to establish this law and it is the duty of the king to tell us the donts and it's consequences. (Then he faces the king)

King Aluri: Well, one who against my order will be sentence to life imprisonment because it is a sign of disobedience and revolution and I won't attach more than this. Thank you.

(The chiefs bowed before the king and left including the chief priest but Chief Orubo and chief Akinmiloju left with anger)

                             ACT SIX

                             Scene II

(Re-enter Ikuku, head of the chiefs and chief Akinde returning to the palace after they used style to dismiss the others)

Chief Akinde: (With smiling face) We have done a perfect job!

Ikuku: Perfect one indeed!

King Aluri: (shaking his head joyfully) Yes, yes and I must thank you all. You all deserved more than what I gave or promised you. So thanks! (Ordering one of his guards to bring palmwine and colanut) Please, be snappy about it. 

Chief Akinde: (Talking to the head of the chiefs) Chief, why are you this quite? This is not you that I know, what is wrong?

Head of the Chiefs: I am disturbed.

King Aluri: Disturb about what?

 (The guard brought the palmwine and colanut and dropped them on the table) Thank you! (to the guard)

Head of the Chiefs: Your majesty, I must confess that my conscience is judging me for exchanging the truth with money and other material benefits. The gods will not happy with me because they assigned me to hold half of this kingdom. So I am scared, my king.

Ikuku: Forget about the gods. They can't do you anything as far as I am concerned. I want you to know that they can't go to the river and fetch water by themselves except human help them, so that is why they employed me to  be their errand. Be logistic and realistic that if I choose not to go to the river to help them fetch the water, they will die of dehydration of water because water is life and no one can survive without drinking it. So fear not, chief, for the eye of the gods is with you.

Head of the Chiefs: Very well then.

King Aluri: (Giving him a glass of palmwine) Take this to chase away the stubborn fear.

Chief Akinde: Hmmmm chief, so you can fear like this? (They both burst into laughter)

King Aluri: Chief Akinde, you can't blame him oooo. (Instructing a guard to offer them their portion of the palmwine and colanut)

Ikuku: Your majesty, this palmwine is very fresh and tastes like sugar. 

King Aluri: Oh, really?

Ikuku: Yes my king. Where did you get it from?

Chief Akinde: Yes, I want to know too?

King Aluri: Well, it was Akiki, the palmwine tapper that brought. Meanwhile, he came with it to introduce his new wife to me.

Chief Akinde: New wife?

King Aluri: Yes, new wife. One pretty young lady! 

Chief Akinde: Oh okay.

King Aluri: But less I forget, I want to let you all know that I am interested in her.

Head of the Chiefs: How?

Chief Akinde: How? The king of this land said he is interested on the woman, what does it mean to you?

Head of the Chiefs: (Pretending not to understand) Well, I don't know.

Ikuku: You know, don't pretend chief.

Chief Akinde: Well, let's not force him to know what he claims that he does not know. So to help him out, what the king meant is that he is interested to marry her.

Head of the Chiefs: But she is already married to another man and it is a taboo if the king intende to take such step.

Chief Akinde: It doesn't matter, chief. We are the traditions because we made it, and the tradition cannot be us. Why are you forgotten so soon that we just enacted a law called HATE SPEECH and the essence of this law is to restrict the so called tradition that is used by some people like Chief Orubo to disobey the order of the king. Since we have succeeded in achieving this feat, no one can dare to question the king's order.

Head of the Chiefs: Very well then

Ikuku: Better

Chief Akinde: So your majesty, what is the next plan?

King Aluri: You what do you think?

Chief Akinde: Well, I must be of the opinion that you should call the husband and tell him.

King Aluri: Tell him what?

Chief Akinde: To imperatively tell him that you are interested to marry his wife.

Ikuku: Well suggested

King Aluri: Very well then

Chief Akinde: Yes, and also give him just 30 minutes to bring her to you.

King Aluri: (Applauding the idea) Well planned, chief Akinde. I will buy the idea with immediate effect. 

(Sending two of his guards to summon Akiki) Go to Akiki, the village palmwine tapper, tell him that the king needs his presence here. Also, don't leave his house until he returns with you. Now go. 

(Then they left)

Chief Akinde: (Changing the topic) That's remind me.

King Aluri: That what?

Chief Akinde: What can we offer to the other chiefs after using them?

King Aluri: That's nothing. I have made arrangements for them. (Calling one of his guards) Guard, bring me that package. 

Guard: O.K. my king.

King Aluri: That's remind me too. I was told that the Missionaries will be arrived in two days time, have you arranged the land we will give to them to build their church? (Asking the head of the chiefs)

Head of the Chiefs: Yes, my king.

King Aluri: Very well then. Let's wait for their arrival.

Guard: (postering before the king) Here are the things that you requested, my king.

King Aluri: Give them to Chief Akinde.

Guard: Your oder is respected, my king.

(Then the guard presented the package to Chief Akinde as instructed by the king and he returns to his duty post)

King Aluri: Chief, you can give each of them their shares. The content of this package is money and gold. So go ahead and do what you can to please them more. I trust you that's why I assigned you for this duty.

Chief Akinde: I will do as you instructed, my king.

(Enter Akiki, the village palmwine tapper appearing before the king)

Akiki: Greetings to you, my king. (The king answered and he continues talking) I was summoned by your guards to appear before you, my king.

King Aluri: Yes, I do. Chief Akinde, tell him why I called him.

Chief Akinde: (Taking a breath) Well, Akiki, it is good that you introduced your newly wedded wife to his majesty. So his majesty commend you for that.

Akiki: Thank you, chief.

Chief Akinde: Welcome. His majesty said that I should tell you that he is interested on your lovely wife.

Akiki: That will be fine but I don't really get it, chief.

Chief Akinde: But I didn't use strange language, I used a general language that all of us can understand. Well, since you said you don't understand me then I must let the cat of the bag. His majesty want to marry your wife.

Akiki: What?

King Aluri: Yes, you heard him.

Akiki: But why, your majesty.

Chief Akinde: You don't have the right to question is majesty. Please remember the danger behind your behavior.

Ikuku: Well, Akiki, chief Akinde have said everything that is needed to be said. So comply as you have been told.

Akiki: But this is unacceptable. Chief, please say something. (Begging the head of the chiefs)

Head of the Chiefs: Well, I have nothing to say. The king is the tradition and no one has the right to question his words, so comply as you have been told.

Akiki: Sorry your majesty, I can't do it. She belongs to me.

King Aluri: Young man, don't be stubborn. Or do you have the right to say no if I want to take your wife from you?

Akiki: No

King Aluri: Then why are you hesitating to honor my words?

Akiki: I am sorry, your majesty but I can't do it.

Ikuku: What......how dare you? Do you know the consequences of what you are doing?

Chief Akinde: Leave him naw. Maybe he want to spend the rest of his life in jail.

King Aluri: Well, let me not wear the devil cloth yet because I will still give you a chance. Name what you want: is it money, land, cloth, gold, good life, just name it and it shall be granted for you?

Akiki: (Kneeling down) I only need one favour which is to grant me the freedom to live with my wife, please.

King Aluri: What you are seeking for, cannot be found in this kingdom rather it something maybe you can find in an unknown world. So let me send you to that unknown world. Here is my decision, that you have been sentenced to 10 years imprisonment without seeing a sign of the day.

Akiki: Well, I rather die than to see these atrocities of yours.

Ikuku: A stubborn fly always follows the corpse to the grave. Now you can follow the corpse since you are proven stubbornness.

King Aluri: (Instructing the guards) Take him away and make sure that you put him in underground prison where he will not see the light of the day.

 ( As he was carrying away by the guards, he was shouting and crying for help but no one seems to hear him and then his voice fade after he was thrown into the underground prison.

Exit the palace)

                             ACT SEVEN

                                 Scene I 

(The light bright on chief Orubo's house. Enter chief Urobo and chief Akinmiloju)

Chief Orubo: Chief, this one you came to my house uninvited, hope all is well? Meanwhile, what can I offer you?

Chief Akinmiloju: Nothing. Don't bother, I am O.K.

Chief Orubo: If you say so. A toad does not run in  a daytime, except something is after it. So what is after the toad, chief Akinmiloju?

Chief Akinmiloju: Chief......

Chief Orubo: Yes

Chief Akinmiloju: Haven't you heard?

Chief Orubo: About what, chief?

Chief Akinmiloju:........that king Aluri jailed Akiki, the village palmwine tapper for ten years imprisonment all because he wanted to marry Akiki's wife and he refused.

Chief Orubo: That's impossible.

Chief Akinmiloju: It has happened already, chief.

Chief Orubo: But when did it happen?

Chief Akinmiloju: That was yesterday and I was told that chief Akinde, head of the chiefs and Ikuku are the one behind it.

Chief Orubo: I can't be surprised because I saw it coming.

Chief Akinmiloju: You are right, chief.

Chief Orubo: Well, all thses are happening because the majorities are on his side. But let me tell you, chief Akinmiloju, when a bunch of known corrupt and evil people unite against one man and spare no effort to ridicule him, blackmail him and attempt to assassinate his character all because he contradict their evil minds, just blindly follow that one man and I thank the gods that you are following the one man. (Refering to himself) I assured you that one day they will be flushed away by the wind. Then that day I must tell you that I am the messenger of the gods.

Chief Akinmiloju: I never doubted your words, chief.

Chief Orubo: Very well then

Chief Akinmiloju: Also chief, I was told that missionaries are coming to stay in this village and the king has granted the approval. That's not all, he has instructed the head of the chiefs to arrange a land for them to build a church.

Chief Orubo: Well, it has never happened before that the tradition accepts such thing. We all know very well that tradition is tradition and nothing is excepted to change the narrative of the tradition. For me, let's spare him since many are in support because we can't opposes everything. But what I know is that let the new religion allows Cesar to take what rightfully belongs to him and and gives what belongs to the God they  serve. 

Chief Akinmiloju: You are right, chief. If it can be done that way then it means that the respect of the tradition is reciprocated.

Chief Orubo: Simple

Chief Akinmiloju: (Ready to take his leave) I beg to take my leave, chief.

Chief Orubo: It is granted!

Chief Akinmiloju: (Standing up) Then I must take my leave.

Chief Orubo: Very well then, my regards to your family.

Chief Akinmiloju: They will hear, chief.

(Then the light fade on çhief Orubo's house )

                           ACT SEVEN

                              Scene II

(Enter Akiki's wife brought before the king)

Durin:  Why  I'm I here, my king?

King Aluri: You are here because I need you.

Durin: Why, I am a married woman, my king?

King Aluri: Yes of course

Durin: So did you say you need me, my king? Meanwhile, where is my husband?

King Aluri: Husband?

Durin: Yes, my husband.

King Aluri: Are you blind to see me?

Durin: No, I am not blind, my king.

King Aluri: Then why are you asking rhetorical questions?

Durin: I ask because my husband is missing for the past three days and the last time I saw him was when you summoned him to the palace.

King Aluri: You are daring my words, woman. Well, I must still say that I need you and that is what is saving you. Your so called husband is in the prison for disobeying my words. From now on, you will be called a queen. So go inside and remove this stinky cloth from your body.

Durin: I can't do that, my king....... please, I am sorry? I don't mean to disrespect your words.

King Aluri: You have two options, woman. One is to join your ancestors at this early age and the second one is to comply my words.

Durin: (Crying) Please, my king. I am begging you.

King Aluri: Begging cannot help you, rather it is making it worse. My word is my word so nothing can change it. Just do as I said now.

Durin: Well, I will comply as you said, my king.

King Aluri: Yes, it's now you are talking. Go to the second chamber, you will meet the maidens waiting for you. Just go in and change these dirty clothes, I want you to smell nice and looking good since you are now a royalist.

Durin: I will, my king.

King Aluri: Very well then.

Durin: Thank you, your majesty.

(She then was led by one of the maidens to the chamber to change the cloth)

                   

                             ACT EIGHT

                               Scene I

(King Aluri takes an inspect to the village and he met a man called Ebu farming in his farm land. Then he ordered his driver to stop the vehicle outside the farm and when Ebu saw him he then decided to come out to greet him.)

Ebu: Greetings, my king.

King Aluri: Greetings to you, young man.

Ebu: Thank you, my king. Please what can offer you, my king?

King Aluri: Don't worry because you don't have to offer me except this farm land.

Ebu: As the king pleases! 

King Aluri: So I give you three days ultimatum to leave this land.

Ebu: Three days ultimatum to leave this land?

King Aluri: Yes, three days ultimatum.

Ebu: (Getting confused) But this land belong to me, my king.

King Aluri: Yes, but a temporary ownership.

Ebu: Temporary ownership?

King Aluri: Yes.

Ebu: I don't me to disrespect you but I can't let this land out of me because it is rightfully belongs to me and I enherited it from my late father, Ugbona, the great akala of Umoru kingdom.

King Aluri: You have no right to question my words, young man. Don't count or include yourself among the deaths.

Ebu: But it is my right and I can't allow any oppression to claim it from me. Meanwhile, you have everything including many farm lands, so why can't you leave this small piece of land for me?

King Aluri: Just as you said, this land farm land is also among my farm lands. As you can see, I  am on my way to other part of Umoru  for inspection. Good day.

(The young man became speechless because he has nothing else to say. He was just looking at the king while leaving the farm for other places)

    

                           ACT EIGHT

                            Scene II

(After king Aluri ordered Ebu to evacuate from his  farm land, he became so restless and sleepless. But what came to his mind which can support him to claim his right back was to seek for the help of Chief Urobo. Immediately he returned home from the farm land, he hurriedly dropped his tools and went straight to Chief Orubo's house. Luckily, he met Chief Orubo and chief Akinmiloju in the house.)

Ebu: Greetings to you, my elders.

Chief Orubo: The elders heard your greetings, Ebu.

Chief Akinmiloju: Ebu, this one that you came to Chief Orubo's house, hope all is well?

Ebu: All is not well sir.

Chief Orubo: What could be the problem then? Let me guess, did king Aluri come your way by blocking it?

Ebu: You guess correctly, chief. He has finished me. The only piece of farm land that my late father left for me, he has taken it from me. I am finished, chief..... please help me.

Chief Orubo:  That's impossible. Why is this man (referring to king Aluri) wicked like this? (he stands up from his chair with furious anger) I can't let this happen because enough is enough 

Chief Akinmiloju: Calm down, chief. We need to follow this man wisely if not he will succeed by climbing on our heads and dance. Remember that he formulated a law just because to restrict the few people who are speaking the truth against him. So let's follow him with wisdom, chief.

Chief Orubo: But his evil doings are taking out of hands for crying out loud. Well, you are a wise man and that is why you chose to follow the light, unlike the head of the chiefs, chief Akinde and the rest. I will adhere your advice but I cannot let him to claim what is rightfully belongs to this innocent young man. I asked, can the entire forest be disappeared because a single tree is cut down? There is no way you will fight a lion without having a scratch on your body. His so called law, the hate speech can only harm or kill me once but it can never have me killed two times. I am not afraid of having a scratch on my beautiful skin which is made with a diamond of Africa while fighting for the truth.  So I am going to the palace right away. 

 (Then he stands up, wear his cap and carries his staff) Young man, (referring to Ebu) follow me.

Ebu: O.K. chief.

Chief Akinmiloju: I can't let my good friend to go alone to the terrifying forest to hunt, so I will go with you too.

Chief Orubo: Very well then. I know that my good friend can't see me walking into the terrifying forest alone when the lion's and other dangerous animals are waiting for me, so he must back me up. Thank you, chief!

(They both walk to the palace with a foot not touching the ground and this is mostly the walking steps of chief Orubo who is walking faster without looking back because of anger.

 Enter king Aluri, chief Akinde and head of the chiefs in the palace)

King Aluri: I know, that young man will still have the mind to report to chief Orubo after I asked him to evacuate from his land that I want it.

Chief Akinde: I feel the same, my king.

King Aluri: Then we will not surprise to see the stubborn fly here for the issue because what he can do.

Head of the chiefs: Let's wait and see what will happen then.

King Aluri: But I don't think it will possible for him to enter this palace today because I ordered the guards not to allow visitors in throughout today except you (referring to chief Akinde) and head of the chiefs.

 Chief Akinde: You did well, my king. Then we will have a rest today and maybe face his trouble tomorrow. 

(They both burst into laughter)

(A guard ran into the palace and he prostrate before the king and report the unexpected visitation of chief Orubo in the palace)

Guard: My king.....

King Aluri: What is it young man. Speak up.

Guard: Chief Orubo, chief Akinmiloju and one young man are here to see you. Then I told them the instruction that you gave us but he refused (refering to chief Orubo) and insisted that they must see you. The worse is that he even slapped one of the guards. So I became terrified and decided to report to you, my king.

(Before the guard finished his report, chief Orubo and the other two people have already entered the palace.)

King Aluri: Don't worry, you may go back to your duty post.

Guard: Thank you, my king.

King Aluri: What is the meaning of this, chief Orubo?

Chief Orubo: I should be the one to ask you, your majesty.

Chief Akinde: Chief, please mind the way you talk to the king.

Chief Orubo: Chief Akinde, respect yourself because I didn't come for you. I don't even need to exempt you because you are among the people and even the leading dancers that are dancing the evil drum of the king.

King Aluri: How dare you talking to me that way. Oh you have forgotten so soon that there is a law called hate speech?

Chief Orubo: I don't care, your majesty. Freedom of the press is the great palladium to the British liberty and as a human right chief, I must walk in the direction and the advancement course of my people.

King Aluri: Very well then. Just prepare to face the rath of the law and I don't need to tell you the effects.

Chief Orubo: Can the entire forest be disappeared because a single tree is cut down?  A man cannot die two times, so I have nothing to fear, your majesty. I rather die for speaking the truth than to buried the truth in silence.  You can do and take and be everything, but one thing I know is that you can never do more than a dead rat.

Chief Akinde: This is unacceptable, chief Orubo.

(Before he utters the statement, chief Akinmiloju has already attacked him)

Chief Akinmiloju: Sit down, chief Akinde. This fight is not meant for a cockroach like you. So sit down and let me not hear a word from you.

King Aluri: Oh, two of you gang up to create this plan, right? Chief, (refering to the head of the chiefs) why are you keeping silence.

Head of the Chiefs: Because I have nothing to say, my king.

Chief Orubo: Better because the only word I will use on you will swallow you like a piece of corn.

King Aluri: Chief Orubo, do you know that I am the king of this land?

Chief Orubo: Yes I know very well that you are the king of this land but that doesn't give you the supreme power to claim other people's properties. So return this young man's land to him or else.

King Aluri: Or else what? Do you want to control me or what? Infact I am done with you people, so leave my palace now or I ask the guards to throw you out like dust bin.

Chief Orubo: Throw us out? Where is the tradition then? A whole title men be thrown out like dust bin?

King Aluri: Yes. Also remember that I am the thunder and strike whoever block my way. 

Chief Orubo: But the thunder can never strike the messenger of the gods because the gods created the thunder.

King Aluri: Then let's wait and see

Chief Orubo: We shall see nothing

King Aluri: Then be ready to face the rath of the new tradition.

Chief Orubo: New tradition?

King Aluri: I don't need to repeat my words. If you know what is good for you, you people should better leave this palace now.

Chief Orubo: Well, we will leave but write it down that one day all these atrocities will come to an end.

 (Then they left the palace and king Aluri was just looking at them  reluctantly. He rests on his chair and re-thinks of the action of çhief Orubo )

King Aluri: A warrior cannot fight all the battles and intend to win all but he must lose some. I released the land for him.

Çhief Akinde: As it pleases your majesty.

(Exit the palace)

                             ACT EIGHT

                               Scene III

(The light bright on the arrival of the missionaries led by Rev. Smith. They were welcomed by Chief Akinde and then he moved them to the king for introduction. They both arrived to the palace and met the king and some elders in council but chief Orubo did not attend the meeting.)

King Aluri: Are these the missionaries that we are expecting?

Chief Akinde: Yes, my king. They arrived this morning and they were welcomed by me, so I decided to bring them before you for recognition.

King Aluri: Very well then. They are welcome to Umoru kingdom. Who is their leader?

(Then Rev. Smith came forward)

Rev. Smith: Here I am, my king. May you live long.

King Aluri: That's so good of you and your people. What's your name?

Rev. Smith: I am Rev. Smith, the eye and voice of the living God who sent His only begotten son, Jesus Christ to die for our sins.

King Aluri: Living God and only begotten son to die for our sins?

Rev. Smith: Yes, my king. The living God who sent His only begotten son to die for our sins to save and liberate every mankind.

King Aluri: That's sounds so strange then because we worship only one god in this land and never in history we been told about such story.

Rev. Smith: Yes, it has never been told in your own history but ours have it clearly written. Meanwhile, God is different from god. God is the controller of the universe and he created everything that you see both on earth and heaven and the god which you serve is a man made.

King Aluri: That's not true, my very good friend.

Rev. Smith: It is, my king.

King Aluri: Very well then. But what I know is that ekokun is the only god who made all of us in this kingdom, so I don't believe in other controller except ekokun.

Rev. Smith: Well, we are not here to exchange words with you but sent by the living God to teach His words to the people.

King Aluri: Very well then. But don't forget to give what belongs to Ceasar and what belongs to the God you said you serve. If you can adhere to this advice, then Umoru kingdom will not have any problem with you. You are free to stay with us.

Rev. Smith: Thank you, my king. 

(Chief Akinde lead them to their house as they happily followed him then the light fade in the palace)

                       

      

                               ACT NINE

                                Secene I

(Chief Akinmiloju could not hold the trouble brought by the strangers with him, so he hurries to Chief Orubo's house and feed him the news of the arrival of the missionaries. The light bright on Chief Orubo's house.)

Chief Orubo: Chief Akinde, this one you came to my house like a troublesome wife who is after by her husband, what did you do to him this time?

Chief Akinmiloju: Stop that confusing question first, I have something important to tell you.

Chief Orubo: Something important to tell me?

Chief Akinmiloju: Yes, something very important.

Chief Orubo: Very well then, I am listening.

Chief Akinmiloju: Are you aware that we are expecting visitors in this land?

Chief Orubo: Yes I do, the missionaries right?

Chief Akinmiloju: Exactly, chief.

Chief Orubo: Have they come?

Chief Akinmiloju: Yes

Chief Orubo: They are welcome then

Chief Akinmiloju: Yes, they are welcome but I am feeling danger.

Chief Orubo: Danger?

Chief Akinmiloju: Yes, danger.

Chief Orubo: Well. For me it will not pass than to destroy our tradition.

Chief Akinmiloju: (Surprised) How did you know, chief?

Chief Orubo: I know because a wise man is like an old man who sees what a child cannot see even though he climbs an iroko tree.

Chief Akinmiloju: You are very correct, infact perfectly correct, chief.

Chief Orubo: Better

Chief Akinmiloju: You were not in the palace when they came. Let me gist you. (Sitting close to him) Let me gist you, the wise man almost sell the king with strange words. He mentioned that the God they serve is only living controller who created everything on earth and heaven. He said that ekokun is a minor god created by man, that it is not supernatural being that created us.

Chief Orubo: That's Interesting

Chief Akinmiloju: So the king have nothing than to say that the missionaries should give what belongs to Ceasar and what belongs to the God they serve.

Chief Orubo: That's better of him

Chief Akinmiloju: Well, it is better of him ooo. But our tradition will no longer the tradition very soon with the way I am seeing things now.

Chief Orubo: I won't be surprised then

Chief Akinmiloju: Same here, chief. But it is our tradition, not the missionaries.

Chief Orubo: I know that very well. For me, I will dance to the tune of the drum they will beat and you will surprise to see me dancing it without listening to anybody's advice. So let's wait and see.

Chief Akinmiloju: I trust your words, chief. And I cannot hesitate to join you for the dance.

Chief Orubo: Very well then

Chief Akinmiloju: (Preparing to take his leave) I will be on way, chief.

Chief Orubo: O.K. chief. Greet your family for me.

Chief Akinmiloju: They will hear, chief.

(Then the light fade out from chief Orubo's house)

                                ACT NINE

                                  Scene II

(Rev. Smith is set to organize crusade and every families have come out to witness the ways of the new religion. Rev. Smith is standing on a box which is decorated as alter. He wears a white garment )

Rev. Smith: Children of our living God, the Lord love you but don't take that opportunity for granted. Our God is a caring, loving and all knowing. He gives freely without condition or human sacrifices. But all you are assigned to do is to give your life to him, that's follow him and you shall be incorporated among the happy soul. I am not condemning the god you serve before my introduction of the living God, but bear in mind that the God of everything created everything that is existing in the world. (Bringing out nicklace) Take this and put it on your necks, it is the mark of God. (Sharing it to the people)

Chief Akinde: But our tradition does not permit that

Rev. Smith: Tradition?

Chief Akinmiloju: Yes, Tradition. We can't abandon the do and don'ts of the tradition, I mean the tradition of our forefathers, the tradition of our ancestors, the tradition of our land which gave birth to all the souls of Umoru.

Rev. Smith: (Laughs) The tradition as you said is a primitive one. It is something that will pass away but the word of God is eternal. Like I said earlier, I don't mean to condemn your god but I must still tell you that the living God exist before everything in the universe that is why He controls it.  

Chief Akinde: So do you mean that it is not forbidden to put on the nicklace of the living God you said you serve?

Rev. Smith: Yes, nothing is wrong with it. 

Head of the Chiefs: (Clears throat)  We have heard your words, Rev. As the head of chiefs of this land, I can't approve that our people should wear the strange nicklace you introduced to us. As the tradition demands, we will still seek for the approval of the  chief priest who communicate with our ancestors. I think I can't speak more what I have just said. Thank you.

Rev. Smith: The words of God taught us that we should give what belongs to God and what belongs to Ceasar. Therefore, I shall humbly abide with your words by seeking for the approval of the chief priest. May the spirit of the Lord be with you all. 

(Then the people depart as the chiefs went to Ikuku to seek for the wearing of the nicklace)

                               ACT NINE

                                Scene III

(The light bright out on the shrine. 

Enter the chiefs standing outside Ikuku's chamber in the shrine)

Head of the Chiefs: (Facing the entrance of the chamber) Ikuku........Ikuku, the eye and voice of the gods, a man who communicate with our ancestors face to face, the elders of Umoru

 greet you.

(Then the red contain on the door opened and Ikuku came out by facing back and then faced front when got outside)

Ikuku: What summons the termite out of its hole by this time of the day? Elders of our land, Ikuku heard your greetings.

Head of the Chiefs: Great one, the elders of Umoru thank you for  acknowledging the greetings. It is dangerous for the termite to sleep in it hole when the flood season is approaching because it can never survive if the hole is flooded with water. Therefore, the termite must make preparations on how to relocate to safe place.  We came uninvitedly because the termite want to know the arriving time of the angry flood which is urgent and that can only be told by the eye of the gods. The strangers (referring to the missionaries) preached a strange God to us and gave us instruments (referring to the nicklace) of the strange God. But we cannot accept the offer without taking a permission from you, that is why we are here to resolute the dilemma.

Ikuku: This is commendable and a very wise step. Before Ikuku give you his words, he need to hear from the gods first. So give me a minute.

 (Then he entered his chamber waiting the chiefs are waiting outside)

Chief Akinmiloju: My elders, what should we do if the eye of the gods give us his words by accepting the offer?

Chief Akinde: Well, nothing to do than to accept the words of the chief priest because his words are final.

Chief Akinmiloju: His words are final, what of he misinform us by claiming to give us the words of the gods?

Chief Akinde: Chief Akinmiloju, please don't build castle in the air. Ikuku is the eye of the gods and judicial head of this kingdom, so you have no right to question is words. Like I said earlier, his words are final.

Chief Akinmiloju: Very well then. But for me, I can't obey the direction of a blind bat.

Chief Akinde: And who is that blind bat, if I may ask?

Chief Akinmiloju: I didn't mention anybody's name

Head of the Chiefs: (Trying to intervene to stop the argument) Enough of this, please enough. Let's wait for the words of the chief priest and I think that is the only thing we are here for. By the way, why is it that chief Orubo did not follow us?

Chief Akinde: I am even happy that he did not follow us because I don't have the strength for his trouble.

Chief Akinmiloju: Which trouble, if I may ask?

Chief Akinde: Are you chief Orubo?

Chief Akinmiloju: No, I am not.

Chief Akinde: Then I don't have answer for your question.

Chief Akinmiloju: Because chief Orubo and I are not as evil and greed as you are.

(Their argument was interrupted when Ikuku came out from his chamber)

Ikuku: My elders, the gods sent their greetings.

Head of the Chiefs: We thank the gods

Ikuku: Without wasting your time, the gods ordered me to give you their words. The gods said that they don't forbid the strange God, so you can give the direction to the people to accept the offer from the strangers. And Ikuku want to know the content of the offer.

Chief Akinde: It is a nicklace. There is a cross on the tail of it and the leader, Rev. Smith asked the people including us, the chiefs to wear it.

Ikuku: Yes, you are free to wear. The gods don't forbid.

Head of the Chiefs:  We hear the words of the gods and we thank them for letting us know the arrival time of the angry flood. We beg to take our leave, great one.

Ikuku: The gods let you.....

(They depart and then the light fade out in the strine)

        

          

                            ACT TEN

                             Scene I

(Chief Akinmiloju arrived to chief Orubo's house to inform him about the outcome of their meeting with the chief priest)

Chief Orubo: Chief, I greet you.

Chief Akinmiloju: I greet you too, chief.

Chief Orubo: Please, what should I offer you?

Chief Akinmiloju: Nothing, don't bother.

Chief Orubo: You said so.

Chief Akinmiloju: Yes, I said so because what brought me to your house is more important and disturbing than the offer.

Chief Orubo: What is wrong again?

Chief Akinmiloju: Chief, (clears his throat) the worse has happened again.

Chief Orubo: The worse?

Chief Akinmiloju: Yes, chief. You won't believe what I am about to tell you.

Chief Orubo: Be brief so that I can believe your untold story.

Chief Akinmiloju: Chief, (clears his throat again) the strangers (referring to the Missionaries) have polluted our tradition and the custodian of the tradition whose duty is to protect it has sold it to them.

Chief Orubo: Be brief, chief.

Chief Akinmiloju:  The strangers gave an instrument of the God which they claim that they serve to the people and the worse is that Ikuku granted the permission to the people to accept it that it doesn't against our tradition.

Chief Orubo: And what is that instrument that they gave to them?

Chief Akinmiloju: Nicklace. There is a cross on it and the statue of a man called Jesus Christ is on that cross. They said that, one who accept Jesus as his or her personal saviour will have an eternal life.

Chief Orubo:  I have no business with the strangers but those who brings home the ant-infested faggot. Is the king aware of it?

Chief Akinmiloju: Yes, he do.  Me and the other chiefs led by the head of the chiefs went to the palace to seek for his approval or rejection, but  he approved that the people should accept the offer from the strangers. The worse is that we even met him with the head of the missionaries named Rev. Smith praying for him and his crown was removed while receiving the prayers. It was after his approval that we went to Ikuku for the execution order.

Chief Orubo: Very well then. I learnt tomorrow is our annual ritual?

Chief Akinmiloju: Yes, by 7:a.m. The towncrier has already announced it and the coffee will start by 5:a.m. according to the tradition. 

Chief Orubo: Very well then, I shall deliver the voice of the gods tomorrow.

Chief Akinmiloju: (He stands up) OK chief, let me take my leave and prepare for tomorrow.

Chief Orubo: All right, my regard to your family.

Chief Akinmiloju: They will hear, chief.

                               ACT TEN

                               Scene II

(The chiefs and the king have prepared for the ritual rite and the parade kicked start from the market square. The king with his white cloth and a palm leaf in his mouth leading the chiefs and while Ikuku with his complete chief priest attire following the chiefs from behind. King Aluri is carrying a local pot and it is covered with a white cloth which is said to be the symbol of ekokun. They began to parade around the village by chanting ugbokuru to warn the people, especially women and children to stay indoor. After paraded around the village, they returned to the strine to perform the ritual rite. )

Ikuku: (Clears his throat) Elders of our land and our king, I welcome you all to this wonderful rite of the gods which is done annually.  We have done the first stage to unveil the ritual to the gods. Therefore, I want his majesty to present the pot of life before the gods.

King Aluri: (Stepping forward) By your order, I present the pot of life before the gods of our land and may they accept our humble sacrifice.

The chiefs: (They chant) esee 

Ikuku: The gods are really with us and I order each of you to put a finger on the pot and lick what you touch inside it. But remember, don't look inside the pot as instructed by the tradition. His majesty will be the first person to do that. By the way, where is chief Orubo?

Chief Akinde: Some people believe that we cannot succeed without them, but I can prove them wrong that we can more succeed without them.

Chief Akinmiloju: And what is that suppose to mean?

Chief Akinde: I didn't mention anybody's name.

Chief Akinmiloju: But ears have already heard the sound of the bees so there is no need to pretend.

Ikuku: Gentle men, enough of this exchange of words. We are here for something very important by performing the rite of our ancestors. So let's respect that for at least a minute.

Chief Akinmiloju: He will be here soon

(Chief Orubo arrived to the congregation in the strine. Expectedly, he is to wear his full traditional attire for the ritual but instead wore only short nicker without putting on at least ordinary cloth to cover his body. He stepping to position where the pot is placed with bear foot. He put his finger inside the pot immediately after the chief before him and step back to wear other chiefs are standing)

Ikuku: (Passes his left hand on his head three times and spite) Gbesugbesu, abomination. I can't allow the fly to fly into my eyes while I am looking at it with my two clear eyes. This is a big taboo.

Head of the chiefs: Chief Orubo, please what is the meaning of this?

Chief Orubo: What is the meaning of what? (he laughs)

Chief Akinde: Yes, you heard. Please explain.

Chief Orubo: Explain what if I may ask?

Head of the Chiefs: For what you are displaying to us right now.

Chief Orubo: Do you really need an explanation?

King Aluri: Yes, it is. This is a taboo and you know that.

Chief Orubo: Do I know it is a taboo?

Head of the Chiefs: Yes, you know.

Chief Orubo: Very well then. So where is it written or stated in the tradition that we should decorate ourselves with instruments of a strange God? If you can tell me, then I can explain the attitude of mine now. (Looking at them)

Chief Akinmiloju: I will assist chief Orubo to explain himself that's if you can provide answer to his question.

(Both the chiefs, king and Ikuku are staring at his each other  but none of them answer the question) 

Chief Orubo: Well, if such permission can be granted for strangers to wear us the instruments of their God and then  I am assigned with the right to carry on the assignment of the gods. I am just their messenger. For you to know better, I am a messenger of the gods and I am just a egg in their palms. Since a stranger can be allowed to visit the private chamber of the king without inviting him, then I am privileged to visit the king even though he is making love to his wife because I work as a guard in the palace. Let me tell you, tradition is tradition and it was made before you, so you don't have the right to change its ways. I respect the gods that is why I decided to obey their order since I am just a messenger. I believe in the saying that when the slave masters beat your ancestors into conforming to their religion which they no nothing about, remember that allowing them is not about saving the souls of our ancestors for a God who loved them because they know nothing about him, but is about conquering the souls of our ancestors, their personalities, their identify and even their deities to break them into obedient slaves. There was no love in that equation, so it is better we think carefully before making the mistake by allowing the slave masters to beat our ancestors.

Head of the Chiefs:  Great one, what do we do now?

Ikuku: Chief, honestly I don't know. I am lost and confused. I think we should suspend the ritual now.

King Aluri: Great one, did you just say suspend the ritual?

Ikuku: Yes, my king. It is dangerous and will loose my life if care is not taking. The gods will transfer the aggression on me by laying a curse on me and my family.

King Aluri: How?

Ikuku: Let's just suspend it, my king.

Head of the chiefs: Your majesty, please let's follow the advice of the chief priest.

King Aluri: Do you know what you are talking about? Without completely this ritual, do you know that our people will suffer for a year? You know the bad effect?

Head of the Chiefs: Yes I do, my king but repercussion ahead of the chief priest and his family is more dangerous. The gods will understand if we suspend it.

King Aluri: Very well then. Let the chief priest do what pleases him.

Ikuku: Thank you ,my  king. By the power bestowed in me as the eye of the gods, I hereby suspend the ritual. 

(Then Ikuku enters his chamber and while the chiefs and the king depart to their various home)

                               ACT TEN

                               Scene III

(Mama Ayo came to the market to buy food stuffs that will be preserved till the next market which comes every four days. She wore a very long blue gown, blue palm slippers and black trouser. She is fair in complexion, tall and have two tribal mark. She is accompanied by her daughter Ebierin who helped her to carry one of their goods sack that contained rice, beans, vegetables, potato, pepe and red oil. After finishing her shopping, she decided to branch her customer's shop to gist as usual by women. )

Mama Ayo: (Dropping the goods in front of her customer's shop) Kpoi....kpoi ....kpoi......who is here ooo?

Customer: I dey here ooo mama Ayo.

Mama Ayo: How ona dey na? 

(The woman brought out a bench for them to sit down)

Customer: We are fine ma. How is family?

Mama Ayo: We are fine too, my sister. How is business going today? I no say you dey sell well well because I trust you.

Customer: We thank God ooo, at least customers are coming.

Mama Ayo: That is good to hear. That ijebu gari, you never get am? (testing the other gari on the table)

Customer: No ma, maybe next market.

Mama Ayo: Oh Okay. Please let me know oo when it's available, you hear.

Customer: I will ma. Yes, that's remind me. I heard that the rite performed two days ago was suspended because chief Orubo appeared before the council of chiefs, the king and chief priest in the shrine naked?

Mama Ayo: It is true ooo, my sister. My husband told me everything and he said that what he did is a sacrilege that will destroy the whole kingdom.

Customer: Ehen-ehen, why is that man doing like that?

Mama Ayo: I don't know but me I don't support those who opposes him because my spirit is telling me that he is doing the right thing. Our people do say that when a bunch of men unit against one man and spare no effort to ridicule him, blackmail him and  dislike every of his decisions or opinions all because he refuses to follow their, just blindly follow that one man. Chief Akinde is my husband, the assistant head of the chiefs and a well known chief for that matter but my spirit doesn't accept his character. All I know is that chief Orubo and chief Akinmiloju are standing for the truth. Chief Orubo in particular is protecting our tradition which every reasonable human being is expected to know and understand. Ever since I was born, grown up and got married in this village, it has never been told or I heard that stranger who worship a God that we know nothing about gave us his instruments to wear, look at it (touching it)  on my neck and yours , a nicklace that we know nothing about. Funny a enough, the traditional chiefs, including the king accepted to wear it like gangstars. So my sister, let's understand the book before we begin to analyze it. I was once told a story in my childhood period that  long-time ago in the Animal Kingdom,  a sheep was passing and saw a lion crying inside a cage trapped  and the lion begged the sheep to save him with a promise not to kill and eat it but the sheep refused. After much persuasion and for the sheep's gullibility, it opened the cage for the lion. Now the lion was very hungry having stayed in the cage for days without food. It quickly grabbed the sheep to kill and eat but the sheep reminded him of his promise. They were still there arguing when other animals came passing and they sought to know what happened. Both the lion and the sheep narrated their own side of the story but because of fear and in trying to gain Favour in the sight of the lion, all the animals took side with the lion except the Tortoise who claim not to understand the whole scenario.  Now the Tortoise asked the lion to show them where he was before the sheep rescued him, he pointed at the cage. He asked again, "were you inside or outside when the sheep arrived"? The lion said he was inside. The tortoise again said, "OK, enter let’s see how difficult it could be inside". The lion entered and the tortoise locked him back inside. In amazement, the other animals asked tortoise "why" and he replied "if we allow him to eat the sheep today, he will still go hungry tomorrow and we don't know the next amongst us to be eaten tomorrow.  The lesson of this story is, don't support evil today because it doesn't affect you directly, but tomorrow it could be your turn. So that is why I  am supporting chief Orubo who stood for the truth by fighting the evil.

Customer: All what you said is the truth, ma. It's now I understand chief Orubo. May the gods forgive me because I was ignorantly opposing him too.

Mama Ayo: It is not your fault, my sister. It can happen to anybody, that's  ignorant for you. All right, we will talk our leave.

Customer: All right ma. Greet your people for me.

Mama Ayo: They will hear, my sister. We will see next market.

Customer: All right ma. Bye

Mama Ayo: (To Ebierin) Oya let's go or you want to stay with her to sell? (then she stands up as she joins her mother to laugh) O.K. bye, my sister.

                              ACT TEN

                              Scene IV 

Ikuku: (Talking aside) The minutes and hours of the day becomes happy when something great or mysterious happened. The three days which I decided to use to meditate over this danger ahead of me have come like a sun that raise without any reminder. (Then he faced the king) My king, I can't stand the thunder that is preparing to strike me. I have family and I don't want to loose them at this my present age. What chief Orubo did is the will of the gods that will destroy me and my entire generation.

King Aluri: So what are you up to?

Ikuku: I request to resign, my king.

King Aluri: Resign?

Ikuku: Yes, my king, resign.

King Aluri: Are you this coward?

Ikuku: No, my king. But contrarily, I will also say yes because a man with his two complete eyes is not expected to be told when he sees an insect that is flying towards his eye. I don't need to remind you that we are like a tree without root because the gods are not with us. Whatever judgement  or message we pass, only created by us to achieve our plan, not the gods. You suspended the former chief priest and made me because I am the only person that can dance to the tune of your drum. I perverted judgements all because I want you to achieve your plans but now I am in a big danger, a danger that is inevitable if what is needful is not done.

King Aluri: If that is  the case, you can't tell the elders the true  colour of the rainbow, instead you should tell them the colour of the sun to hide the main colour of the rainbow. 

Ikuku: So what do I tell them now?

King Aluri: (Whispering to his ears) That is what you will tell them. Just tell them that you want to have a rest due to your old age.

Ikuku: I think that is a good idea, my king.

King Aluri: A very good one. So I will send two of the guards to summon the chiefs now.

Ikuku: O.K. That is fine, my king. Indeed, you are a master planner. 

(The king sent the guards to summon the chiefs, then enter the chiefs)

Head of the Chiefs: When the rain fall unexpectedly, the farmers cannot hesitate to wait but hurried to check the calendar to know if it's season has truly comes. His majesty called us.

King Aluri: (Clears throat) My elders, I greet you all.

Head of the Chiefs: We heard your greetings, your majesty.

Chief Akinde: Chief, (to chief Orubo) why are you still dress like this? 

Chief Orubo: I did not gathered the dead insects that invited the soldier ants. So ask the people who gathered them.

Head of the Chiefs: But this is  a taboo and abomination before our tradition. A prominent and renowned titled chief is not expected to do this.

Chief Orubo: Did you just say taboo and abomination before our tradition?

Head of the Chiefs: Yes, it is.

Chief Orubo: Well, Chinua Achebe once said that a man who brings home ant infested faggots should not complain if he is visited by lizards. You brought home the ant infested faggots, so why are you complaining of your own problem that is created by you?

(The head of the chiefs nods his head and pretend not to hear him, then the king interfere)

King Aluri: Enough of this argument. You haven't even hear the reason why I summoned you all here. Well, the eye of the gods have something to tell you and that is the purpose of your call. Great one, please tell them your message.

Ikuku: (Clears his throat) My king and elders of Umoru kingdom, I greet you all. (They answered and he continues) When a king reigns, it is thanks to the people because they made him. When a river sings, it is also thanks to the stones because they made it audible to be heard. A tree cannot stand without roots, therefore, it is thanks to the roots. I want to thank you all for the privilege bestowed on me to fill the empty space of the eye of the gods and judicial head of Umoru kingdom. Indeed, I am grateful to you all. Today is a biter sweet day as I am announcing my upcoming resignation from the seat of the chief priest. It is better to eat an egg and stay alive than to eat a full cow and die woefully. I am tendering this resignation because I am old and lacked the capacity to remain on the seat of the chief priest. This has brief that, my resignation is based on my grounds of ill health. I thank you all once again for making me, and also appeal to unmake me with immediate effect.

Head of the Chiefs: (He takes a breath) On behalf of the council of chiefs, the people of Umoru and my humble self, I want to say a very big congratulations to the outgoing chief priest and siezed the same opportunity to commend him for his total commitment, dedication and live by the truth throughout his presence on the seat of the gods! I must say that the entire kingdom, even the unborn will miss his service. I pray that may the gods restore his health and present with us to guide and put through  one whoever will be chose by the gods.

 (Iseee, chanted by the chiefs)

(Chief Orubo mocks him with nose hug)

Chief Orubo:  (Clears his throat) Before then, let all the inmates that are under the captivity of the king be released. If not the approval of the resignation will not be accepted.

(The king and Ikuku look at each other but have no option than to approve his request for the release of the inmates)

King Aluri: Consider it done (then he gave eye signal to Ikuku to say the same)

Ikuku: Consider it done

Chief Orubo: Very well then, we are waiting.

(Then the king gave an oder to release all the inmates in the prison)

Chief Orubo: Very well. The head of the chiefs can approve the resignation. I have done what the gods assigned me to do. I must still say that I am just a messenger of the gods.

(After the meeting, the towncrier was ordered to announce the retirement of the chief priest)

                           

                                ACT TEN

                                 Scene V      

    (Mr. Citizen entered the beer palour and took eight bottles of beers as usual. He can drunk to stupor but that has never affected his good sense of reasoning. If you misunderstood him for being drunk, then he will tell you that he only used his mouth to receive the liquid and passed it to the stomach, so his brain is separated to think logically. After spending his time in the bar for the eight bottles, he decided to go home and still grabbed two bottles of orijin. He hold one on his ampit and started drinking the second one while walking on the road. On his way home, he met Odega and Franklin. The two friends stopped and began to hail him.)

Mr. Citizen: Ahaaa, my good friends, I greet you.

Odega: We greet you too, wise one.

Mr. Citizen: The owner of the land heard your greetings too.

Franklin: We tap from your wisdom, wise one.

Mr. Citizen: (He laughs) Tap from my wisdom (he his standing as if he want to fall down)

Odega: Yes ooo, your wisdom.

Mr. Citizen: (He laughs again) Well, I am just a servant to the owner of wisdom.

Franklin: Then who could that man be? (referring to chief Orubo)

Mr. Citizen: Chief Orubo, the human right chief of course (he drinks his beer)

Odega: Oh, my mind was even telling me.

Franklin: Really?

Odega: Yes

Mr. Citizen: Haven't you heard?

Franklin: Heard what, wise one?

Mr. Citizen: That the battle has been won? (he drinks more from his beer)

Odega: Which battle, wise one?

Mr. Citizen: Can I ask you a question?

Odega: Yes, go ahead wise one.

Franklin: Go ahead, wise one.

Mr. Citizen: Good. Do you people live in this village?

Odega: Yes, we do.

Franklin: We are sons of the soil, so we do.

Mr. Citizen: Then you suppose to know the battle I am talking about. 

(With confusion, the two friends stare at each other)

Odega: Forgive us, wise one. We don't know, please help us out.

Franklin: Yes, please help us out.

Mr. Citizen: Then you must pay me money for two bottles of beers

Franklin: But you already have two with you, wise one.

Mr. Citizen: I know, but that cannot satisfy me.

Odega: OK no problem, I will give you money for five bottles. (He put hand on his pocket and brought out N4,500 and gave him)

Mr. Citizen: (Excitingly) Yes, it is now you are talking like a real man of Umoru.

Franklin: Help us out now since he has settled you with additional 3 bottles.

Odega: Yes, help us out now.

Mr. Citizen: Very well then, I will tell you. So haven't you heard that exactly four eke market days after the messenger of the gods was sent to the shrine, the chief priest resigned?

(The two friends burst into laughter)

Odega: Oh, we do.....wise one.

Franklin: Yes, we do.

Ne. Citizen: Very well then

Odega: Indeed, the ancestors are wise. 

Mr. Citizen: They are very wise, my brother. When they used chief Orubo to start this war, almost all the chiefs were in the side of the king and the chief priest, except one or two honest chiefs. I can remember that chief Akinmiloju was one of the honest chiefs. When others were busy opposing chief Orubo because they were bribed by the king, chief Akinmiloju was busy defending and supporting him. He stood by him till the very end.

Odega: Hmmm

Mr. Citizen: He saved our land because were beginning to lick the buttock of king Aluri who imposed himself on us as a tyrant. Our rights were caged and nobody to uncage us until chief Orubo fought for our freedom.  So let's thank him for unslaving us. 

Odega: Well said, wise one.

Franklin: Yes, that's remind me. I was told that Ikuku didn't open up the main purpose of his resignation, that he resigned because of his health and age. 

Mr. Citizen: Don't mind that lier, the purpose of his resignation was because of the unclothed appearance of the messenger of the gods during the annual ritual in the shrine. He knows what led to the strange attitude of chief Orubo.

Odega: And what could that be?

Mr. Citizen: It is well known, my brother.

Odega: Well known?

Mr. Citizen: Yes. The right he granted for the strangers (referring to the missionaries) to  gave us the instruments (referring to the nicklace) of their God to wear, including the chiefs is what made the messenger of the gods to show him the true colour of the gods. He knows the consequences for seen the bare chest of a chief during the ritual. Also, it is a sign to show or complain of his misdoings as a chief priest. So he knows very well that he is not walking on the path of our ancestors, that's why he resigned to anger of the gods.

Franklin: That's very true. Ever since he was appointed to replace the former chief priest, things are not been going well. 

Ogeda: That's true

Mr. Citizen: It is very true. You know, king Aluri suspended the former chief priest all because he will become a termite to his administration. The former chief priest cannot condone his wrong doings. So for him to have his own autonomy for his evils,  he has to plan the suspension of the chief priest and replace him with the one who can dance to the tune of his drum. I thank our ancestors that they have finally unmade his plans. No more hate speech because there is nobody to defend him by claiming the voic of the gods.

Franklin: Yes oo, no more hate speech.

Odega: I was even told that some chiefs have sent to return the former chief priest to install  a new priest, is that true?

Mr. Citizen: Yes, it is true. It was immediately after the resignation of Ikuku that chief Orubo moved the motion of his return. He is not just returning to install a new chief priest but also to spend the rest of his life in Umoru.

Odega: What a good news!

Franklin: A very good news indeed!

Mr. Citizen: Let me go and relax my mind. Good bye

Odega: Good bye, wise one.

Franklin: Good bye sir.

(Mr. Citizen left the two men as he gently walk home while still drinking his remaining beer. Then the two friends also go their ways as the light on the stage fadeout)