The Protest

                                             6th March,1880.

"Children between the ages of twelve and fifteen took over the black lane of Umuaga; leading to the Black House Villa in the early hours of today. These children engaged in a peaceful protest against the high taxation imposed on the masses by the government". 

The reporter of African Media Center paused. Chika's heart raced like a dog hunting an animal in the forest. She was sweating despite the cool weather and having a bath a few minutes ago. Anyone who saw her would know that she was shaking because the chair she sat on in her room was vibrating. She sat on the chair in her room, with her eyes fixated on the radio. The reporter continued."

This protest is the first of its kind in Alasamba; having children protesting in large numbers. Experts have defined the situation as baffling. According to Dr. Ikenta Chigas, a politician and educator, parents have fallen off with their children.

However, the protest took a drastic turn when security operatives opened fire on the protesters, thereby injuring a great number of the angry children, who engaged in a peaceful protest. 

At the time of filing this report, two children were confirmed dead and twenty-two injured. The injured children were admitted into Umuaga General Hospital, Umuaga for immediate treatment.

Also, two children were arrested. They are Chetachi Udumaga and the ringleader of the angry children, Chikadibia Mbanefo..."

Immediately Chikadibia's name was mentioned, Chika screamed and had a cardiac arrest. On hearing her scream, Chidiuto came out to see his first wife, Chika, convulsing on the floor He called out to Irencha who came out with immediate effect. 

"What happened to her",Irencha asked looking disturbed.

"I don't know. I only heard her scream and came into the room to see her lying on the floor", Chidiuto said in one breath.

"Let me get a cup of water..."

"No,no,no", Chidiuto stopped Irencha who was already moving to bring a cup of water.

"Help me, let's take her to the car",He pleaded.

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An excerpt from my novel, Shattered Dreams.

Let's make this difference together, one step at a time 💙 


Yours sincerely,

Chidera Onuoha.

Nsukka, Nigeria.

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