Abeke

Chapter 1

"Good morning everyone, it's a lovely morning hope you all had a wonderful night. You are tuned to Vin Fm, 99.9 and it's your regular host Abeke Thomas,a.k.a, beks.

On news matter this morning. We have here, Dr. Toke Orisun, who would be talking about a sensitive topic; gender issues in Nigeria 

But first, we'd like her to fully introduce herself. Over to you ma.

"Good Morning, my name is Dr. Toke Orisun, Commissioner for Women Affairs in Oyo state.."

"okay ma'am.. The topic for today is; Gender Issues in Nigeria. What's your view on the topic.

"Gender inequality in Nigeria is influenced by different cultures and beliefs. In most parts of Nigeria, women are considered subordinate to their male counterparts, especially in Northern Nigeria. It is generally believed that women are best suited as home keepers."

"Hmmm.. The last part got me. Women are best suited as home keepers. Interesting. Now, as a woman in power, don't you think something needs to be done?"

"Of course, we have commenced work. The state government organizes conferences for women every year, and women all over Nigeria attend. I even have my own foundation for helping women.". 

"Wow, that's interesting. Why do you think gender inequality is a big issue in the country "

"I think culture and religious beliefs are the two main causes of gender issues. In Nigeria, we really respect our culture.."

"What is your advice to women out there who are facing gender-based violence.."

"I'd like to tell them to speak up and report any case of violence...Don't be afraid of anyone.  I know it's much easier said than done, -which is why we hold a conference- and trust me, your identity would definitely be kept a secret If that's what you want. "

"Okay listeners, hope we've learned a thing or two from this discussion .. We'd now like to take calls. The number to call is 0907*******"

Phone rings. 

"Hello what's your name and where are you calling from. "

"Hello, my name is Kemi, and I'm calling from agbowo... I'd like to know the date of the next conference. "

"Okay. I'd get back to you on that because preparations haven't begun yet. But you'd get to know.".

"Miss Kemi, always tune in to Vin FM, you'd get the date. Thanks for calling.."

"Good morning, what's your name and where are you calling from"

"My  name is Favour "

"Okay, Mr. Favour. What would you like to ask our guest speaker "

"Actually, I'd like to ask you the question, Miss Abeke "

"Ooh.." I said with a puzzled look.". Go on"

"Why do you hate men or rather are you gay, because I've been listening to this station for a while now and I just feel like asking"

I was shocked to the bone. Why would anyone be so ridiculous to have that kind of negative thoughts about me? I tried to comport myself 

"I'm sorry but that's a very personal question. Thanks for calling though I added before ending the call.." 

"Bek's baby how are you?.." Kunle said, smiling sheepishly at me.

"I'm fine.". I said without looking up

"What's up with her?" I hear him whisper the question to Rhoda. 

"Someone asked if she's gay and why she hates men", she whispered back 

"Can you guys stop it, I can hear you both, "I shouted, now looking up. They both gave a puzzled expression, and I sighed.

"I'm sorry for replying that way. what's up, "I tried smiling.

"Guess what.". Kunle said with a fierce energy that made me laugh. 

"Cool down o. This one you're happy. Hmmm, she said yes? I asked raising my eyebrows

"Yes she has o, "Rhoda said

"Hmm. Bigmouth", Kunle replied to her, collecting the coffee she was holding. She gave him a childish look.

"Wow, I'm so happy for you man.." I hugged him

"Thanks, Beks. We're waiting for yours o."

"Ehn? Who? Me?" I say pointing at myself, "you must be joking. "

I look at my wristwatch." Kunle, you're up in 5mins, bye guys. Kunlex, my regards to our wife'

The next day, Rhoda came up to me, holding the Sun newspaper to my face.

" Why are you staring at me like that and what's that?"I asked her, looking at the newspaper.

"Have you seen today's news?' 

"No."She didn't respond, so I continued. "What's with your face"

She handed me the newspaper. It read; -popular Radio Presenter accused of being gay. Is she who we thought she is?