AN UNFORGETABLE EXPERIENCE

I got a call from my kid sister this morning, I have been trying to reach her since she left for benin but i haven't been able to reach her. She sounded really terrified and couldn't really speak well so I asked her to put it in writing and send to me. She replied her phone was gone and she was going to send it as an email or long text. Here is the story (not fiction)

Although it was not the first time it had happened, it all still appeared new to me and even like a movie or some dream. I had always thought I was prepared to face them whenever they would surface; But here I am even with a knife beside me I could do nothing. Had cold feet, I could literally feel my veins freezing as i was in serious shock at the moment. I couldnt live up to my words. I couldnt act upon my words I had earlier confidently told myself. As i write this i am traumatized by the incident, please dont allow your mind wander, let me give you the full story. Here... But first let me introduce myself. I am Ife meaning LOVE in yoruba.

So, I was attacked by armed men at gun and knife point, probably armed robbers or cultists. I had travelled to Lagos Nigeria, (which is my permanent state of residency)for a brief holiday. Coming back to benin where i study mass communication at the great University of Benin. Getting to my apartment (I stay off campus), I met my window tampered as well as my door, But I just thought it wasnt anything serious. Maybe wind or something must have shifted the net and even the lock to the apartment. Not taking this in a light manner, I however inquired from my neighbours and they said they didnt see anybody come around. So i just overlooked the incident.

Unpacked my belongings, head for shower, had dinner and slept early as i was tired due to the long hours spent on the road. About 4hours from Lagos to benin by bus. I was awakened at about 3a.m in the morning with bangs on the window. I ignored, but they were persistent so i went to check to see if it was neighbor who may be needing help or something. Opening the window, I saw two masculine figure pointing shining bright torch light into my eyes directly, I quickly looked away and they said in a stern and scary voice that they are security men who was just checking by. I was shaking because i knew that was a lie, this were armed robbers and could have come for only one thing, to steal. I was scared, i couldnt call for help because I was warned severely with a knife. That any attempt to make a sound would be my end. They asked me to open the door i refused. I was scared, because i didnt want to be raped or beaten or even killed because i could perceive from their voice that these were ruthless guys. Stench of Marijuana all over the place as they urged me to quickly open the door. But i refused i kept asking what they wanted. All of a sudden one rushed to the door and wanted to force it open I could feel my heart pounding like it wants to leave my chest knowing if they should gain access after i had refused them, something terrible would happen to me. Over here we do not have active security lines so i couldnt dare use my phone to alert security service men. I was trapped. So i started praying silently. soon after, The other guy at the window saw something beep (my cellphone) and asked for it immediately else he would ensure he did everything to open the door and might even take me away. This was like a dream I had just bought this phone from Lagos two days ago, so i declined. In his words "you no wan bring am abi, see smally if we open this door, if we open this door you no go like yourself, you go believe" i hurriedly gave him the phone but begged him to please allow me remove my sim card so i dont lose my contacts. He refused, hissed and said "Fine small girl, if you like yourself, oya go back and sleep fast" and ran with his partner in crime. I couldnt sleep. I just couldnt bear to imagine what had happened, what could have happened if they had gained access. I felt really bad and sad but thanked GOD for saving me, I could have been raped or something even worse. But God protected me. Early in the morning by 6a.m i came out even though i was still scared thinking they may still be around though. I woke my neighbors and told them the ordeal. It seemed i was the only one robbed and they couldnt hear any of the talks because my opposite neighbor had his power generator on all through the night.

Good news is the thieves threw my sim card on the floor, i am glad i still have my contact back but i am sad my phone is gone. Kinda having mixed feelings now.

Sad more!