Our Mother said: "Malam, honestly, I do not believe this story. If you have actually sold her, just tell me. I know you have been looking for any excuse to get rid of her anyway. I am not looking for trouble between you and her, but how can someone who has never seen her, and whom she has never seen, suddenly pay a bride-price (sadaki) of one hundred thousand Naira? Well, I don't accept this. I am telling you right now, return their money to them immediately." He sprang forward. "You, Fatima, watch your step! Is she your daughter or my daughter? I've been looking for someone to give her away to and couldn't find anyone, and now someone comes right to our house seeking her? Drop this talk! What business is it of mine whether they have seen each other or not? Once they are married, they will see each other." Gwaggo chimed in, "Oh, leave her alone, that woman of ill-fortune! If she doesn't agree, should we call off the wedding? Gather the items! Hey, you children, call the almajiri boys to move these things over to Gwaggo Amarya's section." Meanwhile, Gwaggo Sasa said, "Haba, Amarya, everything requires proper investigation. Wait until a background check is done to see who this person is; after all, the world is ruined nowadays." With aggressive anger, Gwaggo Amarya retorted, "Shut your mouth, I don't want your envy! If she were your granddaughter, you wouldn't be calling for an investigation. A useless investigation? Even Allah forbids unnecessary spying." Gwaggo Sasa replied, "Oh Lord. I know that if he is a good person, I would be even happier than you are. Is it just because you saw money that you completely insult the girl and her mother?" She turned and walked out of the room. Our Mother said, "Indeed, it's only now that you acknowledge her as your daughter, right? I'll wait and see how this marriage actually takes place." He replied, "Oh, go ahead and challenge royalty then, because I have already accepted the bride-price. You had better call her on the phone to come home, because they are coming tomorrow to take her away." Salame asked, "So, has the wedding already been officially solemnized?" He walked out, snapping, "And what business is that of yours? You chiefs of envy!" Salame said, "Oh, so today we are the envious ones?" He answered, "Yes, you are." Like a madman, he walked out shouting, "Let me call the boys to move the items to your section, Gwaggo, so nobody sets them on fire in the middle of the night." The neighborhood people dispersed, whispering, "Has this man actually sold his daughter, since he never loved her anyway?" Others said, "No, it's true, he is marrying her off to royalty because he saw money. Perhaps the husband is an old man." Gwaggo Karima, Salame, and Ladiyo retreated into Ladiyo’s room, commiserating with one another and looking for a way out. Ladiyo said, "Honestly, I feel like a fever is taking over my body. Does this mean that Malam just took our money and ate it without doing anything for us?" Karima replied, "No, his work definitely succeeded, since no young suitor was paying attention to her just as we requested. However, we can only say that the plan has hit a snag now. But we aren't too late yet; we can still go and dismantle the entire arrangement." Salame suggested, "Or could it be that he refused to complete our task because of the remaining balance we didn't pay him?" They immediately agreed that this must be the reason and decided they would visit him the very next day. They chose not to go out today so people wouldn't notice how suddenly Malam’s attitude had shifted toward them, even making indirect insults. She set her hijab aside and sat down, completely overwhelmed by deep thoughts. She had no idea who to turn to. Suddenly, she stood up and said, "Let me go to Mansura’s mother's house." Our Mother gave her greetings at the house, entering just as Mansura’s mother was setting her own hijab down and responding to the greeting. Coming out to see Our Mother, she said, "Oh, it's you! Come on in. I was just saying earlier that it's been a couple of days since we last greeted. I was planning to stop by tomorrow morning on my way to work." Our Mother replied, "Uhum! Just leave it be. I actually came so you could help me call Maigado; please dial her number for me." Mansura’s mother asked, "Is everything alright?" Mama replied, "Far from it. It's their father and his trouble—you already know his character. This time around, earlier today while I was sitting in my room, he approached me claiming he was tired of seeing Maigado engaging in promiscuity, saying the girl has become a plague, and launching into endless rants. Later on, someone came to see him, and when he returned, he told me to pack my things because a message had been sent from the Emir's palace, claiming they also heard rumors of Maigado’s wandering behavior. He promised to humiliate me when he returned. To cut it short, Mansura's mother, he returned with massive loads of items and a large sum of money, claiming it is Maigado's bride-price, along with sets of suitcases. By Allah, I became terrified, thinking he might have sold her since I know he detests her." Mansura’s mother said, "Power belongs to Allah. Where on earth did he find her a husband?" Our Mother replied, "I have no idea, I didn't even listen to him. It's possible they have already solemnized the marriage because I heard him saying they are coming tomorrow to take her away." Umma said, "Power belongs to Allah. Hold on, let me call Mansura’s father so we can go confront him and get to the bottom of this. But let's not call Bilkisu right now to avoid panicking her, especially since you know how easily she gets overwhelmed. Is he at home?" Our Mother replied, "Yes, he is right outside the house, gathering the neighbors and his male relatives, telling them the story like a madman." Umma said, "Go back home. Once the Isha prayer is finished, we will come over immediately, Insha Allah." As soon as the Isha prayer was concluded, Malam Mamman entered Our Mother’s room. She was sitting on her prayer mat, resting her chin in her hand. He sat down with a slight smirk. How strange that Malam is smiling at me today, Mama thought to herself. He said, "Fatima, stop brooding. You have no reason to look depressed anymore. Relax your mind so we can talk." The greeting from Mansura’s mother interrupted him. He responded, saying, "Come on in." She said, "Great, you're inside? My husband and I came specifically to see you." He replied, "Bismillah, please come in. Fatima, spread out a mat." Umma said, "Let me call him in then." They sat down, and after exchanging pleasantries, Mansura’s father began, "Malam Mamman, your wife came to us with a matter concerning the girl, Bilkisu. What exactly is going on?" Malam Mamman adjusted his posture and began narrating everything that happened, chronologically and in full detail. He was thoroughly enjoying himself, as he never grew tired of recounting the story. Nobody interrupted him until he finished. Mansura’s father cleared his throat and said, "Bilkisu’s mother, if what he said is true, then this is a matter of joy and celebration. Rest your mind. I will call Mansura’s house right now, and tonight, I will have Mansura’s husband make some phone calls to investigate the truth of the matter. Since the Prince being spoken of is his younger brother, he will definitely know everything." Malam Mamman said, "That's up to her. As for me, I have already given my daughter away. Unlike those foolish, envious women who want to deny you from enjoying this luxury, you shouldn't distance yourself from it." Our Mother replied, "You know best; you are closer to them than anyone. Is it only today you realized they are foolish?" Mansura’s mother found this amusing and thought to herself: Typical man. On his first attempt, Abba reached Farooq. At that moment, Farooq was lying down with their baby, Sa'adatu, resting on his chest, while Mansura rested her head on his thighs. He picked up the phone, looked at it, and said, "Oh, it's Abba." He sat up, placing the baby on the mattress. "Salamu alaikum, Abba. Good evening." They greeted. Abba asked, "Do you have any news about your brother, the Prince, getting married?" Farooq replied, "No, he isn't even around." Abba said, "Well, make a call and investigate for me right now." Farooq agreed. Mansura, staring intently at him, asked, "What did he say?" He raised his hand to signal her to wait. He called Magajin Malam’s line, knowing he would know everything. After greeting him, he asked, "Magaji, is it true that the Prince is getting married?" Magajin Malam replied, "That is correct. He has even been given a wife from Zaria. She is your wife's friend, right?" Filled with astonishment, Farooq said, "Oh, so it's actually Bilkisu?" Magajin Malam replied, "It is indeed her. As we speak, the bride-price has been paid." Farooq asked, "Does the Prince know?" "No," Magaji replied, "He doesn't even know a marriage arrangement is being made for him, and His Majesty gave strict orders not to inform him." Farooq said, "Alright, thank you very much." He then called Mansura’s father back and said, "Yes, Abba, he is getting married, and it is indeed Bilkisu." Abba replied, "Alright, that's fine. Since tomorrow is Sunday and you're at home, I want you to bring Bilkisu to me, but do not tell her anything. Does she know?" Farooq said, "No." Abba added, "Don't inform her until you arrive." He then hung up the phone.
MEKE FARUWA (Part 41)
Filled with amazement, Farooq stared blankly at his phone. Mansura, visibly startled, widened her eyes and looked at him, asking, "What is it, Dady's father?" He took a deep breath and said, "It turns out the Prince is getting married." She scoffed slightly. "If the Prince is getting married, what does that have to do with Abba? Honestly, you scared me; I thought something bad had happened." He said, "No. Do you know who the Prince is marrying?" She widened her eyes again. "Who?" He said, "Your friend Bilkisu from back home." Mansura bolted upright. "Bil... who?" He repeated, "Bilkisu." She clutched her chest. "According to whom?" He said, "I just called Magajin Malam, and he confirmed to me that the bride-price has already been paid! The crazy part is, the Prince himself doesn't know. As of right now, he has no idea he is being married off, and she doesn't know either. But your father asked us to come over tomorrow and insisted you must not let her know you have any information." Mansura scoffed. "Honestly, I don't want her marrying that hot-tempered Prince." Farooq countered, "As for me, I am happy for her. The Prince possesses a noble character inherited from his lineage. Whatever happened between them in the past was just the work of the devil. Once they settle down in a proper, lawful marriage, they will resolve their differences, and he will take good care of her." Mansura said, "May Allah make it so." Back in Zaria, Abba confirmed to Our Mother that the marriage arrangement was indeed a reality. He and Mansura’s mother successfully calmed her anxieties. They agreed that when Bilkisu arrived tomorrow, he would come over so the wedding items could be brought out and inspected. His phone began to ring. Helen stood up and brought it over to him. Seeing Magaji's number, he muttered, "I hope all is well." He answered, and after exchanging greetings, Magaji said, "His Majesty requested me to ask you when you will be getting a break from work." He paused silently before replying, "Probably in about seven weeks." Magaji said, "Ok, I will inform him." The Prince asked, "Is everything alright, Magaji?" "I think so," Magaji replied. The Prince added, "I actually prefer to take my vacation here." Magaji said, "Ok, you can call and tell him that yourself." "What about you, won't you tell him?" the Prince asked. Magaji replied, "No." He then hung up the phone, thinking to himself: Go ahead and don't tell him, I'll call him myself. Helen moved closer, gently caressing his hairy chest, and mentioned that she wanted him to teach her Hausa because she loved the language. He replied that he didn't have the time, adding that he hadn't even mastered it perfectly himself since he was of Hausa-Fulani descent. She stared into his eyes, telling him she would never tire of telling him how handsome he was, which was why she loved him even more and often referred to him as "One in town." He, however, told her that his feelings for her were strictly based on temporary attraction, adding that he didn't fully believe in a "No one but you" kind of true love. She fell silent because she knew he meant exactly what he said, as he had been telling her this for a long time. She knew she could never force his heart to love her. She had tried throwing tantrums in the past, but he would simply ignore her until she crawled back on her own, since he lacked the patience to coddle a woman, no matter how highly she thought of herself. Because of this, she simply gave up on throwing tantrums. They arrived in Zaria around 12:00 PM and drove straight to Mansu’s family home, where they found Umma preparing to head out. Abba had also stepped out briefly. She told them to sit down while she returned. Bily said she wanted to quickly check on her own home, but Umma insisted she wait. She headed toward Our Mother’s house and found Mamman in his room. He said, "Great, Hajiya, come on in. I am currently dealing with this woman. The wedding items are about to be delivered to this room, and she needs to call her relatives to come over because the people are coming later to take her to a safe house, just as I explained to you yesterday. But she completely refuses to cooperate with me." Umma said, "Well, they have arrived just now and are at our house. Let me call Mansu to tell them to come over here so she can be made aware of the situation." Mama said, "That is my primary concern as well. Honestly, if Maigado doesn't want this, I won't support it either. A firstborn child isn't an animal. Even though I usually turn a blind eye, it's not because I don't love her; I was just trying to keep the peace. The sheer humiliation you subjected her to in this house—even a child picked up from the streets wouldn't be treated that way. Is her entire life going to be spent in misery? She found no peace here, and now she's entering a marriage based on money just to face further humiliation there? I absolutely will not tolerate it." He scoffed loudly. "Listen to you and your wild talk. Let's not dwell on the past. Consulting her opinion is not mandatory, since legally and traditionally, we are the ones who select a husband for her." Our Mother looked at Mansu’s mother and said, "Just call them so we can hear her choice, which will ultimately be my choice. I know exactly how much pain I endured raising my children." Bily couldn't understand why her heart began to race furiously as they approached their neighborhood. She looked at Mansu and said, "Could something have happened to our Mother?" Mansu asked, "What makes you say that?" She took Mansu’s hand and placed it on her chest. "Just feel my heartbeat." Faruk reassured her, "Nothing bad will happen, Insha Allah." The moment they entered the house, she rushed straight to their room. Seeing Mama sitting safely brought a sigh of relief from her, and everyone in the room turned to look at her. Seeing Mama calm put her mind at ease, though she knew a major discussion was brewing, because Baba would never act this compliant for no reason. She sat down close to her mother and said, "Our Mother, I am so glad to see you well, because I feared something had happened to you." Umma laughed gently and said, "Typical Mama's girl." Mama simply replied, "I am perfectly fine, Maigado." Mansu and the others entered, and Bily spread out another mat before they all exchanged greetings. She greeted Baba, whose heart suddenly felt a pang of guilt as he realized how completely indifferent his daughter had become toward him; in the past, he never cared whether she minded him or not, but today it actually hurt. After the greetings, Mansura’s mother looked at Bily and asked, "Do you know the Prince?" Bily’s heart skipped a beat. Did he cause my parents to be humiliated? she asked herself. Umma interrupted her thoughts. "I asked if you know him?" Bily shook her head. "No, I don't know him at all. Did I do something to him?" Umma said, "No." Then she looked at Malam Mamman and said, "Malam, give me that money." With trembling hands, he pulled it out and handed it to her. She took it and placed it directly in front of her. "This is your bride-price." Bily’s eyes widened as she clutched her chest. Umma continued, "And those suitcases over there are for the courtship introduction. The wedding will take place in exactly two months and one week. What do you have to say?" Terrified, Bily turned to look at Our Mother, then threw herself onto her, bursting into tears and crying, "Our Mother, what is your choice? Tell me your choice, and it will be mine. But I want you all to know, the Prince is marrying me not because he loves me, but solely to fulfill his desire to humiliate me." Malam said, "Just say you prefer to remain unmarried in this town while people continue to insult me. How on earth do you know the Prince well enough to claim he wants to humiliate you—a man who lives in Western countries?" Mama said, "Stand up and wipe your tears. If you truly do not want him, there is no compulsion, because you are not standardless." Malam stormed out furiously, shouting, "Well, the rest is up to you. A father gives away a marriage, and I have given her away. The bride-price is right there in your hands. If you want to fight with royalty, go right ahead." He peeked back in. "Don't forget, they are coming today to take her to a safe house, so figure out what to tell them when they arrive. As for me, I am leaving." He slipped on his shoes and walked out. Umma looked at Bily, who was crying on Mama's lap, then glanced at Mansu and Faruk, who sat as silent as stone. Seeing Mansu crying as well, she said, "Stand up and go over to our house. Mansu, and you too Faruk, give her the proper advice she needs, and let us await the final decree of God." Mansu took Bily’s hand and they walked out crying, while Faruk urged them to stop weeping so they wouldn't attract public attention on the street.
MEKE FARUWA (Part 42 & 43)
Indeed, His Majesty was overjoyed by the Prince's arrival. On Umma’s side, she ordered the preparation of various delicacies for her youngest son. After taking a shower and dressing up elegantly, the Prince came before Umma. He sat down and began eating under her pampering care while they chatted happily. He said, "Umma, I notice that out of all my visits, you all seem the happiest to see me today. Is it because I arrived unannounced?" She replied, "And you arrived at the perfect time—exactly when we needed you to come." He looked at her. "Why?" She said, "Because of everything, my son. Just finish up, and you will hear everything from His Majesty." His heart sank, but he forced himself to change the subject. "Umma, you look beautiful, as if you aren't the one who gave birth to Aunty Salma and the others." Umma smiled. "Oh, my son, this is what you say every time you visit. What beauty? We are old now. True beauty belongs to the young. Our only hope now is to see everyone's grandchildren, especially yours, because your children are the primary grandchildren of this royal household and the heirs to the throne." He smiled. "Insha Allah, you will live to see my grandchildren too." Umma said, "No, my son, I don't expect to live that long." He insisted, "Let's change the topic, I don't like you thinking about us parting ways one day." She said, "But it is inevitable. Where is my own mother today?" He replied, "Alright, my Umma. Where are Aunty Fulera and the others? Has she returned from Jeddah?" She smiled, knowing he was intentionally evading the conversation. She said, "They returned a while ago, and their father has recovered significantly." They continued their joyful conversation, sharing the deep bond of a mother and her beloved son. Later, Magaji arrived and escorted him to the other royal quarters to greet his mother's co-wives, after which they proceeded to the palace courtyard to pay homage to the Emir. After bowing in respect, the Prince moved to his father's side and rested his head on His Majesty’s lap—a habit he kept since childhood. As always, His Majesty stroked the Prince's head and muttered, "May Allah bless you." The Prince then sat back, watching the palace proceedings until evening. At night, they were eating dinner in one of His Majesty's famous traditional living rooms, beautifully adorned with royal carpets and cushions. Whenever the Emir was in high spirits, he preferred dining in this room. Umma was serving them various dishes while the Prince contentedly consumed fruits in the presence of his parents. His Majesty looked at the Prince and said in a playful tone typical of close parents, "Allah bless you, Modibbo. Did you happen to hear news of your upcoming wedding, which is why you made this surprise visit?" Instantly, the Prince's stomach churned, and his expression changed completely. He asked, "Your Highness, is it actually true that I am being married off?" His Majesty smiled, then looked at Umma. "Listen to such nonsense. Do people joke about marriage, Modibbo?" Umma added, "My son, you are very close to becoming a groom." The Prince fell completely silent. All the food before him lost its appeal, despite his initial hunger. He picked up a cup of water, poured it, and brought it to his lips; it tasted as bitter as medicine, but he forced himself to sip it so his parents wouldn't notice his distress. However, he was too late, as they had already realized he was completely unhappy with the announcement. The Emir set his spoon down and asked, "Have we wronged you, Al-amin?" The Prince forced a smile. "How could you wrong me? Your Highness, you have only shown me immense favor." He bowed his head. "Thank you, may Allah reward you. Umma, I haven't been disrespectful, have I?" They smiled with satisfaction, though they were intentionally overlooking his discomfort. The Prince, however, was in a state of inner turmoil. He had run straight into the very thing he dreaded most, and he had no way out. Disobeying his father was out of the question—it was against his royal upbringing. He decided he would meet his mother in the morning to beg her to plead with his father, even though he knew it was unlikely to work. Sleep eluded him until late into the night. Eventually, he picked up his phone and called Magaji. The moment Magaji answered, the Prince snapped, "You bastard, so you conspired with them to ruin me? You didn't say a word even though a marriage was being plotted against me!" Magaji replied, "Haba, who are you marrying anyway? But honestly, I am happy for you." The Prince scoffed loudly and hung up. He lay back down, not expecting to sleep but simply to think, which he did until he returned from the mosque after dawn prayers. Only then did a heavy sleep overtake him. He woke up at 9:50 AM, his heart heavy with worry and resentment toward whoever the bride was, because he despised anything that disrupted his peace of mind. Wearing his nightwear, he headed straight to Umma’s room, hoping to soften her stance, though he felt uncertain. He found her having breakfast, and she looked up at him with a warm smile. "My son, you're awake?" He pouted like a pampered child and sat down without saying a word. Umma laughed and said, "Oh, so our youngest is throwing tantrums today." Before he could speak, Jakadiya requested entry, and Umma permitted her in. She greeted Umma, then said, "I came specifically to greet my master. We haven't met since yesterday; when I checked earlier he was asleep, and later they said you were dining. When I checked just now, they said he came to your room, so I decided to come over because I couldn't wait to see my master." Umma said, "Well, there is your master, throwing tantrums left and right." Jakadiya looked at him. "May my master live long. Who upset you?" He said, "Look at his Umma. Umma, do you hear?" She asked, "Hear what?" He pleaded, "For Allah's sake, please tell His Majesty to cancel this marriage. By Allah, I am too young—I am only 24 years old to be married! Look at my studies; they require absolute focus and peace of mind." Umma hardened her expression and said, "Look, don't ever bring this topic up to me again. The matter is completely settled and the date is close, and now you come to me with this nonsense?" He placed his hands over his head and muttered, "Oh my God! Please, Umma, I hope you can persuade His Majesty. I prefer to wait until I am thirty before marrying, since you all want me married. But to have children at 24? I can't do it, Umma." She stood up and glared at him. "Why didn't you object to him when he first informed you? Why come to me, thinking you can intimidate me because you disrespect me? Let me tell you, it will not happen." She walked out, as Jakadiya called after her, "May Allah cool your temper, Your Highness." Once Umma left, Jakadiya moved closer and sat on the floor before him, saying in a gentle, soothing voice, "Master, you just have to be patient." He looked at Jakadiya, his eyes bloodshot, and said, "Jakadiya, I know you have always helped me since I was a child. Whatever I desired, you always made an effort to secure it for me, especially from His Majesty..." Jakadiya replied in a soft, consoling tone, "Master, this time around, His Majesty will not yield to your wishes. And if we pressure him to do what you want, his royal honor and dignity will be compromised. What would he say to the Emir of Zazzau, who personally paid the bride-price and put your bride into traditional seclusion? And what would the Emir of Zazzau say to the girl's parents? Furthermore, you yourself would be failing to show the obedience expected of royal children, because proper upbringing dictates..."
Our Mother said:
"Malam, honestly, I do not believe this story. If you have actually sold her, just tell me. I know you have been looking for any excuse to get rid of her anyway. I am not looking for trouble between you and her, but how can someone who has never seen her, and whom she has never seen, suddenly pay a bride-price (sadaki) of one hundred thousand Naira? Well, I don't accept this. I am telling you right now, return their money to them immediately."
He sprang forward. "You, Fatima, watch your step! Is she your daughter or my daughter? I've been looking for someone to give her away to and couldn't find anyone, and now someone comes right to our house seeking her? Drop this talk! What business is it of mine whether they have seen each other or not? Once they are married, they will see each other."
Gwaggo chimed in, "Oh, leave her alone, that woman of ill-fortune! If she doesn't agree, should we call off the wedding? Gather the items! Hey, you children, call the almajiri boys to move these things over to Gwaggo Amarya's section."
Meanwhile, Gwaggo Sasa said, "Haba, Amarya, everything requires proper investigation. Wait until a background check is done to see who this person is; after all, the world is ruined nowadays."
With aggressive anger, Gwaggo Amarya retorted, "Shut your mouth, I don't want your envy! If she were your granddaughter, you wouldn't be calling for an investigation. A useless investigation? Even Allah forbids unnecessary spying."
Gwaggo Sasa replied, "Oh Lord. I know that if he is a good person, I would be even happier than you are. Is it just because you saw money that you completely insult the girl and her mother?" She turned and walked out of the room.
Our Mother said, "Indeed, it's only now that you acknowledge her as your daughter, right? I'll wait and see how this marriage actually takes place."
He replied, "Oh, go ahead and challenge royalty then, because I have already accepted the bride-price. You had better call her on the phone to come home, because they are coming tomorrow to take her away."
Salame asked, "So, has the wedding already been officially solemnized?"
He walked out, snapping, "And what business is that of yours? You chiefs of envy!"
Salame said, "Oh, so today we are the envious ones?"
He answered, "Yes, you are." Like a madman, he walked out shouting, "Let me call the boys to move the items to your section, Gwaggo, so nobody sets them on fire in the middle of the night."
The neighborhood people dispersed, whispering, "Has this man actually sold his daughter, since he never loved her anyway?" Others said, "No, it's true, he is marrying her off to royalty because he saw money. Perhaps the husband is an old man."
Gwaggo Karima, Salame, and Ladiyo retreated into Ladiyo’s room, commiserating with one another and looking for a way out. Ladiyo said, "Honestly, I feel like a fever is taking over my body. Does this mean that Malam just took our money and ate it without doing anything for us?"
Karima replied, "No, his work definitely succeeded, since no young suitor was paying attention to her just as we requested. However, we can only say that the plan has hit a snag now. But we aren't too late yet; we can still go and dismantle the entire arrangement."
Salame suggested, "Or could it be that he refused to complete our task because of the remaining balance we didn't pay him?" They immediately agreed that this must be the reason and decided they would visit him the very next day. They chose not to go out today so people wouldn't notice how suddenly Malam’s attitude had shifted toward them, even making indirect insults.
She set her hijab aside and sat down, completely overwhelmed by deep thoughts. She had no idea who to turn to. Suddenly, she stood up and said, "Let me go to Mansura’s mother's house."
Our Mother gave her greetings at the house, entering just as Mansura’s mother was setting her own hijab down and responding to the greeting. Coming out to see Our Mother, she said, "Oh, it's you! Come on in. I was just saying earlier that it's been a couple of days since we last greeted. I was planning to stop by tomorrow morning on my way to work."
Our Mother replied, "Uhum! Just leave it be. I actually came so you could help me call Maigado; please dial her number for me."
Mansura’s mother asked, "Is everything alright?"
Mama replied, "Far from it. It's their father and his trouble—you already know his character. This time around, earlier today while I was sitting in my room, he approached me claiming he was tired of seeing Maigado engaging in promiscuity, saying the girl has become a plague, and launching into endless rants. Later on, someone came to see him, and when he returned, he told me to pack my things because a message had been sent from the Emir's palace, claiming they also heard rumors of Maigado’s wandering behavior. He promised to humiliate me when he returned. To cut it short, Mansura's mother, he returned with massive loads of items and a large sum of money, claiming it is Maigado's bride-price, along with sets of suitcases. By Allah, I became terrified, thinking he might have sold her since I know he detests her."
Mansura’s mother said, "Power belongs to Allah. Where on earth did he find her a husband?"
Our Mother replied, "I have no idea, I didn't even listen to him. It's possible they have already solemnized the marriage because I heard him saying they are coming tomorrow to take her away."
Umma said, "Power belongs to Allah. Hold on, let me call Mansura’s father so we can go confront him and get to the bottom of this. But let's not call Bilkisu right now to avoid panicking her, especially since you know how easily she gets overwhelmed. Is he at home?"
Our Mother replied, "Yes, he is right outside the house, gathering the neighbors and his male relatives, telling them the story like a madman."
Umma said, "Go back home. Once the Isha prayer is finished, we will come over immediately, Insha Allah."
As soon as the Isha prayer was concluded, Malam Mamman entered Our Mother’s room. She was sitting on her prayer mat, resting her chin in her hand. He sat down with a slight smirk. How strange that Malam is smiling at me today, Mama thought to herself.
He said, "Fatima, stop brooding. You have no reason to look depressed anymore. Relax your mind so we can talk."
The greeting from Mansura’s mother interrupted him. He responded, saying, "Come on in."
She said, "Great, you're inside? My husband and I came specifically to see you."
He replied, "Bismillah, please come in. Fatima, spread out a mat."
Umma said, "Let me call him in then."
They sat down, and after exchanging pleasantries, Mansura’s father began, "Malam Mamman, your wife came to us with a matter concerning the girl, Bilkisu. What exactly is going on?"
Malam Mamman adjusted his posture and began narrating everything that happened, chronologically and in full detail. He was thoroughly enjoying himself, as he never grew tired of recounting the story. Nobody interrupted him until he finished.
Mansura’s father cleared his throat and said, "Bilkisu’s mother, if what he said is true, then this is a matter of joy and celebration. Rest your mind. I will call Mansura’s house right now, and tonight, I will have Mansura’s husband make some phone calls to investigate the truth of the matter. Since the Prince being spoken of is his younger brother, he will definitely know everything."
Malam Mamman said, "That's up to her. As for me, I have already given my daughter away. Unlike those foolish, envious women who want to deny you from enjoying this luxury, you shouldn't distance yourself from it."
Our Mother replied, "You know best; you are closer to them than anyone. Is it only today you realized they are foolish?"
Mansura’s mother found this amusing and thought to herself: Typical man.
On his first attempt, Abba reached Farooq. At that moment, Farooq was lying down with their baby, Sa'adatu, resting on his chest, while Mansura rested her head on his thighs. He picked up the phone, looked at it, and said, "Oh, it's Abba." He sat up, placing the baby on the mattress. "Salamu alaikum, Abba. Good evening." They greeted.
Abba asked, "Do you have any news about your brother, the Prince, getting married?"
Farooq replied, "No, he isn't even around."
Abba said, "Well, make a call and investigate for me right now."
Farooq agreed. Mansura, staring intently at him, asked, "What did he say?" He raised his hand to signal her to wait.
He called Magajin Malam’s line, knowing he would know everything. After greeting him, he asked, "Magaji, is it true that the Prince is getting married?"
Magajin Malam replied, "That is correct. He has even been given a wife from Zaria. She is your wife's friend, right?"
Filled with astonishment, Farooq said, "Oh, so it's actually Bilkisu?"
Magajin Malam replied, "It is indeed her. As we speak, the bride-price has been paid."
Farooq asked, "Does the Prince know?"
"No," Magaji replied, "He doesn't even know a marriage arrangement is being made for him, and His Majesty gave strict orders not to inform him."
Farooq said, "Alright, thank you very much."
He then called Mansura’s father back and said, "Yes, Abba, he is getting married, and it is indeed Bilkisu."
Abba replied, "Alright, that's fine. Since tomorrow is Sunday and you're at home, I want you to bring Bilkisu to me, but do not tell her anything. Does she know?"
Farooq said, "No."
Abba added, "Don't inform her until you arrive." He then hung up the phone.
MEKE FARUWA (Part 41)
Filled with amazement, Farooq stared blankly at his phone. Mansura, visibly startled, widened her eyes and looked at him, asking, "What is it, Dady's father?"
He took a deep breath and said, "It turns out the Prince is getting married."
She scoffed slightly. "If the Prince is getting married, what does that have to do with Abba? Honestly, you scared me; I thought something bad had happened."
He said, "No. Do you know who the Prince is marrying?"
She widened her eyes again. "Who?"
He said, "Your friend Bilkisu from back home."
Mansura bolted upright. "Bil... who?"
He repeated, "Bilkisu."
She clutched her chest. "According to whom?"
He said, "I just called Magajin Malam, and he confirmed to me that the bride-price has already been paid! The crazy part is, the Prince himself doesn't know. As of right now, he has no idea he is being married off, and she doesn't know either. But your father asked us to come over tomorrow and insisted you must not let her know you have any information."
Mansura scoffed. "Honestly, I don't want her marrying that hot-tempered Prince."
Farooq countered, "As for me, I am happy for her. The Prince possesses a noble character inherited from his lineage. Whatever happened between them in the past was just the work of the devil. Once they settle down in a proper, lawful marriage, they will resolve their differences, and he will take good care of her."
Mansura said, "May Allah make it so."
Back in Zaria, Abba confirmed to Our Mother that the marriage arrangement was indeed a reality. He and Mansura’s mother successfully calmed her anxieties. They agreed that when Bilkisu arrived tomorrow, he would come over so the wedding items could be brought out and inspected.
His phone began to ring. Helen stood up and brought it over to him. Seeing Magaji's number, he muttered, "I hope all is well." He answered, and after exchanging greetings, Magaji said, "His Majesty requested me to ask you when you will be getting a break from work."
He paused silently before replying, "Probably in about seven weeks."
Magaji said, "Ok, I will inform him."
The Prince asked, "Is everything alright, Magaji?"
"I think so," Magaji replied.
The Prince added, "I actually prefer to take my vacation here."
Magaji said, "Ok, you can call and tell him that yourself."
"What about you, won't you tell him?" the Prince asked.
Magaji replied, "No." He then hung up the phone, thinking to himself: Go ahead and don't tell him, I'll call him myself.
Helen moved closer, gently caressing his hairy chest, and mentioned that she wanted him to teach her Hausa because she loved the language. He replied that he didn't have the time, adding that he hadn't even mastered it perfectly himself since he was of Hausa-Fulani descent. She stared into his eyes, telling him she would never tire of telling him how handsome he was, which was why she loved him even more and often referred to him as "One in town." He, however, told her that his feelings for her were strictly based on temporary attraction, adding that he didn't fully believe in a "No one but you" kind of true love. She fell silent because she knew he meant exactly what he said, as he had been telling her this for a long time. She knew she could never force his heart to love her. She had tried throwing tantrums in the past, but he would simply ignore her until she crawled back on her own, since he lacked the patience to coddle a woman, no matter how highly she thought of herself. Because of this, she simply gave up on throwing tantrums.
They arrived in Zaria around 12:00 PM and drove straight to Mansu’s family home, where they found Umma preparing to head out. Abba had also stepped out briefly. She told them to sit down while she returned. Bily said she wanted to quickly check on her own home, but Umma insisted she wait.
She headed toward Our Mother’s house and found Mamman in his room. He said, "Great, Hajiya, come on in. I am currently dealing with this woman. The wedding items are about to be delivered to this room, and she needs to call her relatives to come over because the people are coming later to take her to a safe house, just as I explained to you yesterday. But she completely refuses to cooperate with me."
Umma said, "Well, they have arrived just now and are at our house. Let me call Mansu to tell them to come over here so she can be made aware of the situation."
Mama said, "That is my primary concern as well. Honestly, if Maigado doesn't want this, I won't support it either. A firstborn child isn't an animal. Even though I usually turn a blind eye, it's not because I don't love her; I was just trying to keep the peace. The sheer humiliation you subjected her to in this house—even a child picked up from the streets wouldn't be treated that way. Is her entire life going to be spent in misery? She found no peace here, and now she's entering a marriage based on money just to face further humiliation there? I absolutely will not tolerate it."
He scoffed loudly. "Listen to you and your wild talk. Let's not dwell on the past. Consulting her opinion is not mandatory, since legally and traditionally, we are the ones who select a husband for her."
Our Mother looked at Mansu’s mother and said, "Just call them so we can hear her choice, which will ultimately be my choice. I know exactly how much pain I endured raising my children."
Bily couldn't understand why her heart began to race furiously as they approached their neighborhood. She looked at Mansu and said, "Could something have happened to our Mother?"
Mansu asked, "What makes you say that?"
She took Mansu’s hand and placed it on her chest. "Just feel my heartbeat."
Faruk reassured her, "Nothing bad will happen, Insha Allah."
The moment they entered the house, she rushed straight to their room. Seeing Mama sitting safely brought a sigh of relief from her, and everyone in the room turned to look at her. Seeing Mama calm put her mind at ease, though she knew a major discussion was brewing, because Baba would never act this compliant for no reason. She sat down close to her mother and said, "Our Mother, I am so glad to see you well, because I feared something had happened to you."
Umma laughed gently and said, "Typical Mama's girl." Mama simply replied, "I am perfectly fine, Maigado."
Mansu and the others entered, and Bily spread out another mat before they all exchanged greetings. She greeted Baba, whose heart suddenly felt a pang of guilt as he realized how completely indifferent his daughter had become toward him; in the past, he never cared whether she minded him or not, but today it actually hurt.
After the greetings, Mansura’s mother looked at Bily and asked, "Do you know the Prince?"
Bily’s heart skipped a beat. Did he cause my parents to be humiliated? she asked herself.
Umma interrupted her thoughts. "I asked if you know him?"
Bily shook her head. "No, I don't know him at all. Did I do something to him?"
Umma said, "No." Then she looked at Malam Mamman and said, "Malam, give me that money."
With trembling hands, he pulled it out and handed it to her. She took it and placed it directly in front of her. "This is your bride-price."
Bily’s eyes widened as she clutched her chest. Umma continued, "And those suitcases over there are for the courtship introduction. The wedding will take place in exactly two months and one week. What do you have to say?"
Terrified, Bily turned to look at Our Mother, then threw herself onto her, bursting into tears and crying, "Our Mother, what is your choice? Tell me your choice, and it will be mine. But I want you all to know, the Prince is marrying me not because he loves me, but solely to fulfill his desire to humiliate me."
Malam said, "Just say you prefer to remain unmarried in this town while people continue to insult me. How on earth do you know the Prince well enough to claim he wants to humiliate you—a man who lives in Western countries?"
Mama said, "Stand up and wipe your tears. If you truly do not want him, there is no compulsion, because you are not standardless."
Malam stormed out furiously, shouting, "Well, the rest is up to you. A father gives away a marriage, and I have given her away. The bride-price is right there in your hands. If you want to fight with royalty, go right ahead." He peeked back in. "Don't forget, they are coming today to take her to a safe house, so figure out what to tell them when they arrive. As for me, I am leaving." He slipped on his shoes and walked out.
Umma looked at Bily, who was crying on Mama's lap, then glanced at Mansu and Faruk, who sat as silent as stone. Seeing Mansu crying as well, she said, "Stand up and go over to our house. Mansu, and you too Faruk, give her the proper advice she needs, and let us await the final decree of God." Mansu took Bily’s hand and they walked out crying, while Faruk urged them to stop weeping so they wouldn't attract public attention on the street.
MEKE FARUWA (Part 42 & 43)
Indeed, His Majesty was overjoyed by the Prince's arrival. On Umma’s side, she ordered the preparation of various delicacies for her youngest son. After taking a shower and dressing up elegantly, the Prince came before Umma. He sat down and began eating under her pampering care while they chatted happily.
He said, "Umma, I notice that out of all my visits, you all seem the happiest to see me today. Is it because I arrived unannounced?"
She replied, "And you arrived at the perfect time—exactly when we needed you to come."
He looked at her. "Why?"
She said, "Because of everything, my son. Just finish up, and you will hear everything from His Majesty."
His heart sank, but he forced himself to change the subject. "Umma, you look beautiful, as if you aren't the one who gave birth to Aunty Salma and the others."
Umma smiled. "Oh, my son, this is what you say every time you visit. What beauty? We are old now. True beauty belongs to the young. Our only hope now is to see everyone's grandchildren, especially yours, because your children are the primary grandchildren of this royal household and the heirs to the throne."
He smiled. "Insha Allah, you will live to see my grandchildren too."
Umma said, "No, my son, I don't expect to live that long."
He insisted, "Let's change the topic, I don't like you thinking about us parting ways one day."
She said, "But it is inevitable. Where is my own mother today?"
He replied, "Alright, my Umma. Where are Aunty Fulera and the others? Has she returned from Jeddah?"
She smiled, knowing he was intentionally evading the conversation. She said, "They returned a while ago, and their father has recovered significantly." They continued their joyful conversation, sharing the deep bond of a mother and her beloved son.
Later, Magaji arrived and escorted him to the other royal quarters to greet his mother's co-wives, after which they proceeded to the palace courtyard to pay homage to the Emir. After bowing in respect, the Prince moved to his father's side and rested his head on His Majesty’s lap—a habit he kept since childhood. As always, His Majesty stroked the Prince's head and muttered, "May Allah bless you." The Prince then sat back, watching the palace proceedings until evening.
At night, they were eating dinner in one of His Majesty's famous traditional living rooms, beautifully adorned with royal carpets and cushions. Whenever the Emir was in high spirits, he preferred dining in this room. Umma was serving them various dishes while the Prince contentedly consumed fruits in the presence of his parents.
His Majesty looked at the Prince and said in a playful tone typical of close parents, "Allah bless you, Modibbo. Did you happen to hear news of your upcoming wedding, which is why you made this surprise visit?"
Instantly, the Prince's stomach churned, and his expression changed completely. He asked, "Your Highness, is it actually true that I am being married off?"
His Majesty smiled, then looked at Umma. "Listen to such nonsense. Do people joke about marriage, Modibbo?"
Umma added, "My son, you are very close to becoming a groom."
The Prince fell completely silent. All the food before him lost its appeal, despite his initial hunger. He picked up a cup of water, poured it, and brought it to his lips; it tasted as bitter as medicine, but he forced himself to sip it so his parents wouldn't notice his distress. However, he was too late, as they had already realized he was completely unhappy with the announcement.
The Emir set his spoon down and asked, "Have we wronged you, Al-amin?"
The Prince forced a smile. "How could you wrong me? Your Highness, you have only shown me immense favor." He bowed his head. "Thank you, may Allah reward you. Umma, I haven't been disrespectful, have I?"
They smiled with satisfaction, though they were intentionally overlooking his discomfort. The Prince, however, was in a state of inner turmoil. He had run straight into the very thing he dreaded most, and he had no way out. Disobeying his father was out of the question—it was against his royal upbringing. He decided he would meet his mother in the morning to beg her to plead with his father, even though he knew it was unlikely to work. Sleep eluded him until late into the night.
Eventually, he picked up his phone and called Magaji. The moment Magaji answered, the Prince snapped, "You bastard, so you conspired with them to ruin me? You didn't say a word even though a marriage was being plotted against me!"
Magaji replied, "Haba, who are you marrying anyway? But honestly, I am happy for you." The Prince scoffed loudly and hung up. He lay back down, not expecting to sleep but simply to think, which he did until he returned from the mosque after dawn prayers. Only then did a heavy sleep overtake him.
He woke up at 9:50 AM, his heart heavy with worry and resentment toward whoever the bride was, because he despised anything that disrupted his peace of mind. Wearing his nightwear, he headed straight to Umma’s room, hoping to soften her stance, though he felt uncertain. He found her having breakfast, and she looked up at him with a warm smile. "My son, you're awake?"
He pouted like a pampered child and sat down without saying a word. Umma laughed and said, "Oh, so our youngest is throwing tantrums today."
Before he could speak, Jakadiya requested entry, and Umma permitted her in. She greeted Umma, then said, "I came specifically to greet my master. We haven't met since yesterday; when I checked earlier he was asleep, and later they said you were dining. When I checked just now, they said he came to your room, so I decided to come over because I couldn't wait to see my master."
Umma said, "Well, there is your master, throwing tantrums left and right."
Jakadiya looked at him. "May my master live long. Who upset you?"
He said, "Look at his Umma. Umma, do you hear?"
She asked, "Hear what?"
He pleaded, "For Allah's sake, please tell His Majesty to cancel this marriage. By Allah, I am too young—I am only 24 years old to be married! Look at my studies; they require absolute focus and peace of mind."
Umma hardened her expression and said, "Look, don't ever bring this topic up to me again. The matter is completely settled and the date is close, and now you come to me with this nonsense?"
He placed his hands over his head and muttered, "Oh my God! Please, Umma, I hope you can persuade His Majesty. I prefer to wait until I am thirty before marrying, since you all want me married. But to have children at 24? I can't do it, Umma."
She stood up and glared at him. "Why didn't you object to him when he first informed you? Why come to me, thinking you can intimidate me because you disrespect me? Let me tell you, it will not happen." She walked out, as Jakadiya called after her, "May Allah cool your temper, Your Highness."
Once Umma left, Jakadiya moved closer and sat on the floor before him, saying in a gentle, soothing voice, "Master, you just have to be patient."
He looked at Jakadiya, his eyes bloodshot, and said, "Jakadiya, I know you have always helped me since I was a child. Whatever I desired, you always made an effort to secure it for me, especially from His Majesty..."
Jakadiya replied in a soft, consoling tone, "Master, this time around, His Majesty will not yield to your wishes. And if we pressure him to do what you want, his royal honor and dignity will be compromised. What would he say to the Emir of Zazzau, who personally paid the bride-price and put your bride into traditional seclusion? And what would the Emir of Zazzau say to the girl's parents? Furthermore, you yourself would be failing to show the obedience expected of royal children, because proper upbringing dictates..."