NYSC DAY ONE: THE PILOT

As I lay on my bed typing; I feel so weak and nostalgic. I had been looking forward to this for so long, but now I’m not so sure I want it anymore. Three weeks in this Ondo camp be seeming like three years. But it wasn’t so sad at the beginning.

I had joined a bus filled of ladies only before a guy jumped in. It was a nice trip with my driver keeping a steady speed of 80 to 120 km/hr. It was an 8 hour trip; but the closer we got to the place, the more I longed for home. I found myself sleeping and having ‘dreams’ of me back in Port Harcourt. I tried to fight it with the idea of an ‘iyalode‘ whom I longed to see.

Well then, there were wonderful views to behold. Aside the gardens that lay around the roadside and the tall trees that would pads for a love garden; there was this looming rocks. So close you’d think they’d fall on you. Another view that caught my interest was the precolonial houses that were still present here. But the mud houses also scared me too.

On getting to the camp; my waning enthusiasm picked a little boldness. I watched around as my heart gladdened at the culture mix up. It was really fun to witness or so I thought; but I felt quite alone as people spoke in their tribal languages and it seemed like I had no one to speak mine with. The Hausa’s especially had this so called tribal bond. They didn’t need to know you; all you need do is to just speak the language. The Yoruba’s, whose language I also adored made sure their voices were heard.

My first frown came to my face, when I had told a ‘brother’ to help me with his pen; but he said no, and waited for his Hausa speaking brother to come around. I marvelled at the grip tribalism had. The registration process was one so hectic and rigorous I wished I could actually sleep after my eight hours journey. I made some friends, make and female; of all of them, one stood out. She was a female and actually cared.

My prayer when coming here was to meet the right persons and I did meet some; as the guys around me were actually clowns. We threw jibes late into the night, till it was lights out. Well, I did have my fears; I still do. I’m scared of theft; I feel there must be a case of theft, but I just pray I’m not the victim. I wished for tomorrow to be better than today. I almost forgot to complain how every single person who rendered any service or sold any goods here, was out to exploit us. From the sachet water to cleaning of shoes, to laundry and even to smile (laughs).

I just pray tomorrow be better. But right now; good night from the Sunshine’s city of Ondo state.