Chapter 5: Flight III
January 2000
(Nigeria)
**Chapter 5**
**Joseph's POV**
After escaping the horrors of Iyana-Ipaja, we drove straight toward Iyana-Iba. To my surprise, the streets here looked untouched—almost peaceful. The war hadn't reached this part of the country yet.
People moved about as though life was normal, shops remained open, traffic flowed without panic. It was unsettling how war could devastate one place while another remained blissfully ignorant of its impending destruction.
But the peace was short-lived.
After passing Iyana-Iba and arriving in Badagry, I slammed the brakes in shock.
Ahead of us, an intimidating sight loomed—a military checkpoint.
Camouflage vehicles stood guard, armored trucks stationed like immovable beasts, soldiers gripping their weapons with unwavering vigilance. Their fingers rested on the triggers, their eyes locked onto us.
Beside me, Lola stiffened, her breath shallow.
"Will the military kill us too?" she whispered, anxiety thick in her voice.
Before we could dwell on the terrifying possibility of being mistaken for enemies, an authoritative voice erupted through a megaphone.
"This is Major General Faruk Mijinyawa, General Commanding Officer of the 81st Division, Military Battalion Squad of the 15th Field Engineer Regiment Command. If you are a civilian approaching this checkpoint, identify yourself by honking twice. If you fail to comply, we will open fire."
I didn't hesitate.
With trembling hands, I honked twice.
Immediately, the soldiers lowered their weapons, but their posture remained defensive—ready for anything.
A soldier approached, signaling for me to park. I obeyed, my pulse hammering.
"Good day, sir," I greeted cautiously.
The officer scoffed. "What's good about the day when destruction has swallowed the nation? Identify yourself and the passengers in this vehicle."
I swallowed, my throat dry.
"My name is Joseph Sunday. This is my wife, Lola Sunday. And behind us is Mrs. Martins."
His eyes narrowed. "Which Mrs. Martins?"
Confused by his question, I turned toward her.
"Which Mrs. Martins are you?" I asked hesitantly.
Her voice was calm, though grief lingered in her tone.
"Mrs. Martins, wife of the U.S. Ambassador."
Silence.
Shock punched through me like a violent wave.
All along, I thought we had saved the wife of an ordinary American citizen. Never did I imagine she was the spouse of a high-ranking diplomat.
The soldier stiffened, his demeanor instantly shifting. He turned swiftly, saluting before calling over Major General Faruk.
"Sir," he announced with urgency, "the wife of the U.S. Ambassador for Humanitarian Affairs is here."
The Major General rushed over, his expression tense yet respectful.
"Good day, ma'am," he greeted. "How can I be of assistance? Where is your husband?"
Her voice wavered. "My husband is gone. He died in the attack. I was saved by these kind civilians."
The Major General's expression softened.
"We would like to escort you to safety, ma'am," he assured her. "Where are you headed?"
Mrs. Martins exhaled slowly, gathering herself. "I want to get to Ghana and access the U.S. embassy from there." She turned toward us. "What about you? Will you come with me?"
---
**Lola's POV**
I felt my husband's unease.
We had saved the wife of a diplomat—something we never expected. And now, she was offering us safety.
Yet, I could see the debate unfolding behind Joseph's eyes.
Traveling with her meant protection.
But it also meant visibility.
We had planned to smuggle ourselves into Ghana, avoiding any detection due to the war. As Nigerians, we wouldn't be restricted at the Seme border. But following Mrs. Martins might expose us.
I turned to her, offering a grateful smile.
"Thank you for your kindness, ma'am," I said sincerely. "We appreciate the offer, but I think we'll be safer on our own."
She regarded me for a moment before nodding.
"Alright, if you insist," she said quietly. "Thank you… for bringing me to safety."
A soldier named Yusuf assisted Mrs. Martins as she stepped out of the vehicle.
The military granted us passage.
With one final glance at her, we drove off, heading toward the Seme border—our gateway to Benin Republic before the long journey to Ghana.
Despite the small victory, this journey was far from over.
And the real dangers were yet to come.
---
### **Author's Note**
Note:
In West Africa traveling does not require a visa for a West African nation like Nigeria.
But, smuggling of goods is disallowed
I only used smuggling of human activities for drama purposes
As this story is purely fictional !!!
As we journey deeper into the heart of survival, the upcoming chapters will explore the relentless struggles faced by the Sundays.
- **Chapter 6:** The journey through the Seme Border and the tensions at immigration.
- **Chapter 7:** Unfolding the mysteries of the Dawns family and their connection to events beyond Nigeria.
- **Chapter 8:** Facing the unpredictable dangers at sea, battling nature's cruelty.
- **Chapter 9:** The horrifying truths lurking within the Amazon, where survival demands more than just luck.
Each chapter will unravel deeper stakes, harsh realities, and the emotional turmoil of those fighting to keep their lives intact.
Stay ready—the journey is only beginning.