INT. THE UFUOMA'S HOUSEHOLD.
"Cheta comes out of Efe's room and walks through the corridor towards the dining.
CHETA
(Walks into the dining room)
Hey, guys, what did I miss?
ELLA
A lot, I watched Uche Checkmate Efe for the first time in my life.
(Resets the chess)
CHETA
It's a lie.
UCHE
She isn't lying bro.
(Chuckles)
CHETA
Ahh
(Turns to Efe)
Guy, watin happen?
How come na?
EFE
(Turns to Cheta)
Don't start.
By the way what took you so long?
UCHE
Don't try to change the topic, my guy.
I beat you in chess let's talk about that.
(Wraps his arm around Efe's shoulder)
EFE
Oga, leave me jor.
Because say I let you win abi?
ELLA
Eh, don't go there, Efe.
You never saw that move coming.
Just accept your defeat.
CHETA
Wow, I still can't believe this.
Uche finally defeats the almighty Efe.
Now it's my turn.
(Cracks his fingers)
EFE
Really?
ELLA
Yes, I love this.
(Places the chess board between Efe and Cheta)
EFE
(Chuckles)
Remember you asked for this.
CHETA
Oh, yes bring it on.
No level for you, my guy.
UCHE
Sharp.
Oya na let the challenge begin.
____________________________________
INT. KOMES, ROOM.
"Bema picks up Komes Diary."
KOME
Drop that.
(Attempts to take it from Bema)
BEMA
(Refuses to give it to her)
What are you hiding?
KOME
That's none of your business just give it back.
BEMA
No.
KOME
Bema, stop I'm not joking.
You know I hate it when you touch my stuff.
BEMA
Oh really?
But you never let my clothes rest when you come to my house.
KOME
That's on you, bro.
I'm a lady, it's different.
NGOZI
Bema, just give it to her na.
BEMA
Fine
(Drops it on the table)
"Isio attempts to light a stick of F8."
NGOZI
What are you doing?
ISIO
(Turns to Ngozi)
What does it look like I'm doing?
KOME
Isio, no na.
(Collects the smoke from her)
You know everyone is out there.
What if someone walks in here?
ISIO
Then we should lock the door.
(Note the weird look from them)
What guys? I haven't smocked today.
I can't help it any longer.
KOME
Can't you see there is a bigger problem here?
You are getting too addicted to these drugs.
ISIO
Abeg abeg, don't start, Kome.
What's the meaning of that, na?
NGOZI
Guys let's not fight, please.
Isio, abeg you fit smoke am later.
"Isio sighs and walks out of the room."
KOME
Did I do anything wrong by telling her not to smoke in my room?
BEMA
No, you didn't.
KOME
Then why is she acting that way?
She does it all the time.
NGOZI
Because you called her an addict.
KOME
Well, she could pass for one.
BEMA
Doesn't mean she wants to hear it from you.
KOME
Abeg, make she go jor.
(Sits on the bed)
BEMA
You and your bad mouth.
KOME
Better stay your own.
____________________________________
INT. THE IWEBEMA'S HOUSEHOLD.
"Bema sluggishly gets up from the bed."
BEMA
(Looks at the wall clock hung opposite his bed stand; 6:50 AM)
Oh, goodness can't it just be the weekend already?
(Signs and gets up from the bed)
"Bema comes out of his bedroom and walks slowly to the bathroom; he sluggishly opens the door only to find a necked stranger lady taking a hot shower."
FAITH
(Turns towards the door in shock and screams)
Get out of here.
BEMA
(Screams simultaneously)
Who are....?
(Comes out of the bathroom and closes the door behind him.)
_____________________________________
INT. DINING TABLE
"Bema and Faith gaze angrily at each other "
Mrs. IWEBEMA
That's enough, children.
(Turns to Bema)
Apologies to her.
BEMA
What?
Why should I?
I wasn't aware someone was coming over.
FAITH
Didn't you hear the sound of the shower?
A wise person would knock before entering.
BEMA
Excuse you?
I should knock in my own house.
Mrs. IWEBEMA
(Turns to Bema)
That's enough.
Apologies to her!
BEMA
But why?
It wasn't my fault I wasn't aware that you invited a stranger to our home.
Mrs. IWEBEMA
Maybe if you had come home early last night, you would have met her during dinner.
BEMA
Still, you should have told me sooner.
Now I have seen things I can't unsee.
Mrs. IWEBEMA
Mr. Man just apologizes to her.
BEMA
Fine!
(Turns to Faith)
I'm sorry.
FAITH
Just learn to knock next time, oga.
BEMA
Seriously?
Mrs. IWEBEMA
(Interrupts Bema)
Bema, meet Faith.
Faith meet my son, Bema.
(Turns to Bema)
Faith is the daughter of the minister of education, and she will be staying with us for the time being.
BEMA
Why?
FAITH
Because I'm now a student at your school.
Mrs. IWEBEMA
Now let's have breakfast.
BEMA
I don't get it.
Mrs. IWEBEMA
Bema, eat your food.
_____________________________________
EXT. THE UFUOMA HOUSEHOLD.
"Efe turns to Kome."
EFE
Hey, take care of Mama while am away.
And don't miss me too much.
KOME
What's there to miss?
(Avoids eye contact with Efe)
EFE
(Chuckles)
You know you can't do anything without me.
KOME
(Smiles)
Do you remember the day I mistakenly misplaced Mama's money and I was in so much tears because I knew she was going to give me the beating of my life?
EFE
(Chuckles)
I can't forget that day.
You just came home from your primary six exam.
KOME
Yeah
And you told me to stop crying.
When Mama came home you took the heat for me, and she flogged the hell out of you. Bro Ovie continued from where she stopped when he came back that evening.
EFE
I can still feel how Mama pieces her water cane on my back.
KOME
(Tears gather in her eyes)
That was the day I knew her beautiful your heart was, and nobody has ever made me feel so safe as you did.
(Tears stream down her cheeks)
EFE
(Pulls her into his arms)
Hey, don't cry remember it's a beautiful day.
KOME
Thank you.
Thank you for letting me know I wasn't alone.
EFE
(Hugs her tight)
I love you.
KOME
(Raises her head up to Efe)
Ehh?
EFE
You are not going to hear that twice.
"Kome laughs as she struggles with tears that couldn't wait to drop out of her eyes."
Mrs. UFUOMA
(Walks in)
Oya, make we dey go oh.
Make you nor go miss your flight.
(Turns to Kome)
Madam, you dey cry.
Nor be you say you nor fit wait make you he commot?
EFE
Nor mind her.
OVIE
(Opens the car door)
Oya, oh time done go.
(Gazes at his watch)
ZINO
Efe, where is your other bag?
EFE
It's inside.
(Goes inside to get it)
Mrs. UFUOMA
(Counts some money and gives to Kome)
You know say Airport nor dey face your school direction.
Walker go junction then you enter Keke.
Use the rest buy something later for school.
KOME
Migwo.
Mrs. UFUOMA
Vrendo, oya start to go.
Time done go.
You don too dey late these days.
____________________________________
EXT. WINNER ACADEMY
"Mrs. Iwebema packs her car at her usual spot."
Mrs. IWEBEMA
(Turns to Faith)
Welcome to your new school.
FAITH
(Steps out of the car and gazes at the massive structure which was almost twice as huge as that of her previous school)
Wow, not bad.
BEMA
Not bad?
This is the biggest in the country as we speak.
(Turns to walk away)
Mrs. IWEBEMA
Oga where are you going?
BEMA
(Turns back)
Chemistry class begins in fifteen minutes.
Mrs. IWEBEMA
Take her along with you.
BEMA
Why?
Mrs. IWEBEMA
Because she is your classmate it's your job to look after her till she settles in.
BEMA
(Rolls his eyes)
Whatever
Mrs. IWEBEMA
(Smiles at Faith)
Don't worry my dear, you will love it here.
FAITH
(Forces a smile on her face)
Hmm, I hope so.
Mrs. IWEBEMA
Alright, go with Bema, don't worry he will look after you.
BEMA
As long as she behaves herself.
Mrs. IWEBEMA
(Turns to Bema)
Shut up!
____________________________________
INT. SCHOOL, CORRIDOR.
"Faith turns to Bema."
FAITH
Look I do not like you.
BEMA
(Turns to Faith)
Same here.
FAITH
So don't worry you don't have to babysit me I'm going to make it easy for you.
Just show me around then we can go our separate ways.
Deal?
(Stretches her hand for a handshake)
BEMA
Deal
(Accepts the handshake)
First, we have to hurry Chemistry class begins in a few minutes.
FAITH
Sure, lead the way.
_____________________________________
INT. NNAMDI AZIKIWE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
"Mrs. Ufuoma hugs Efe"
Mrs. UFUOMA
Aww, my pikin won leave me.
EFE
Mama, it's not like you are not going to see me again.
Mrs. UFUOMA
But e go tey na.
EFE
Mama don't worry you will see me soon.
OVIE
And you can still see him on video calls.
(Turns to Efe)
Make sure you always call don't make us worry too much.
EFE
Yes, sir.
I will call as often as I can.
OVIE
Hmm, good. And remember all you have been taught over here.
Don't go to another man's land and be lost. Remember your values and manners.
ZINO
Avoid distractions because you will get access to a lot of them.
Women, parties....
EFE
(Interrupts her.)
Sister, that's enough I have heard you.
You know I am not wired that way.
ZINO
(Smiles at Efe)
Hmm, is there a man who isn't wired that way?
EFE
Well, I'm an exception.
Have always been.
ZINO
Hmm.
Just be well.
Mrs. UFUOMA
I have prayed for you, son but I want you to keep praying till you arrive at your destination.
You know say the powers of your father's house nor want make any of una travel but the God I serve has scatter their plans.
OVIE
Mama, nothing will happen I don't know why you believe all those things your pastor tells you.
"Efe's flight is announced."
EFE
Mama, I have to go now.
OVIE
It seems your friends couldn't make it.
EFE
Yeah.
But it's fine.
(Picks up his few luggage and walks out in the opposite direction)
"Uche rushes in."
UCHE
Where is he?
ZINO
He just left.
(Points in the direction)
Hurry.
"Uche rushes to Efe."
UCHE
(Breaths heavily)
Hey, sorry bro.
I got caught up in traffic.
EFE
Where is Cheta?
UCHE
I tried reaching him it didn't go through we were supposed to meet at my place.
EFE
It's obvious he isn't coming.
UCHE
I'm sure he is on his way, maybe he is stuck in traffic too.
EFE
Well, I have to leave now.
UCHE
(Smiles)
Take care of yourself, brother.
EFE
(Smiles)
I will.
"Uche hugs him."
UCHE
Always call and don't forget about me.
EFE
How can I?
We are brothers for life.
(Smiles and walks away)
"Ovie and Zino hold on to Mrs. Ufuoma as she weeps uncontrollably as she watches Efe walk away."
_____________________________________
INT. WAREHOUSE
"Tiga pushes Cheta to the wall."
TIGA
Nor be you I dey follow talk?
You do Watin I ask you to do.
CHETA
(Tears stream down his cheeks)
Yes, it's done.
TIGA
(Smiles t Cheta)
Good boy.
You should be happy.
CHETA
How can I be when I have no clue about what you guys are up to?
TIGA
That's not for you to worry about.
You saved your family, that's the most important thing.
(Turns to leave)
CHETA
If anything happens to Efe....
TIGA
(Turns to Cheta)
Watin go happen?
This is all on you.
You chose your family over him which was brilliant.
CHETA
What do you plan to do to him?
TIGA
(Whispers in Cheta's ear)
We going to help him utilize his potential.
Trust me it's a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
(Laughs out loud)
_____________________________________
INT. WINNER ACADEMY.
"Isio Gazes at Faith from across the hall"
BEMA
What's wrong with you?
Do not look at her.
ISIO
I can't help but admire her hair.
(Gazes at Faith.)
NGOZI
There is no way that is her natural hair.
BEMA
I think it is.
Her Mum is a half-cast.
ISIO
Wow, that explains why she's beautiful.
BEMA
(Rolls his eyes)
Oh, please.
NGOZI
You don't seem pleased that she's around.
BEMA
Should I be?
ISIO
At least you will have someone to talk to and keep you company.
Besides you were the one who said you are mostly bored at home.
BEMA
(Picks up the bottle of juice in front of him)
That doesn't mean I appreciate the presence of someone who is unnecessarily rude.
NGOZI
(Opens her lunch box)
Bema, relax.
She's a rich man's daughter who might not be used to a change of environment.
I'm sure whatever happens is just a reaction to change. I don't think it's about you.
BEMA
I don't care, Ngozi.
That's not an excuse to be rude, na.
Isio's Father is loaded too.
Do you see her acting all bossy and arrogant?
ISIO
Hey, I might not be arrogant, but I have my issues too.
Just cut the girl some slack who knows she may not be as bad as you think she is.
BEMA
Really?
You know what, I'm done talking about this.
(Turns to his food.)
NGOZI
Where the hell is Kome self?
ISIO
Ahh, is that a trick question?
BEMA
She's obviously with that English teacher of a person.
"Isio gets up."
NGOZI
Where are you going?
ISIO
I need to confirm for myself if that hair is real or not.
BEMA
That's your business but keep her away from me that's my own.
"Isio walks towards where Faith is sitting."
_____________________________________
INT. CLASSROOM
"Mr. Daniel notices Kome's long face"
Mr. DANIEL
You have been too quiet what is the problem?
KOME
It's nothing, I'm fine.
Mr. DANIEL
(Pulls her closer to himself)
Hey, why are you lying to me it's obvious something is up with you.
KOME
It's nothing much I'm just a bit sad about my brother.
Mr. DANIEL
What about him?
KOME
Well, he is leaving the country today.
He got a scholarship to study abroad.
Mr. DANIEL
Wow, that's good.
Shouldn't you be happy for him?
KOME
I am really but I'm not used to him not being around.
Mr. DANIEL
(Smiles)
I get that I felt the same way when my twin sister left for London a few years back, but as time passed, it got easier.
So, relax you will be fine.
KOME
Sure, I will.
(Smiles at Mr. Daniel)
So, I got you something?
Mr. DANIEL
Really?
What's that?
KOME
(Unzips her school bag)
Close your eyes.
Mr. DANIEL
Why?
KOME
Just close your eyes, jor.
Mr. DANIEL
Hmm, okay.
(Closes his eyes)
KOME
You can open them now.
Mr. DANIEL
(Gazes at the box of watch in front of him)
What?
This is expensive, Kome.
Where did you get the money to buy this?
KOME
From my savings?
Mr. DANIEL
What?
Return it, please.
KOME
Hey, relax it's not that expensive and besides my brother gave me some cash before leaving.
Mr. DANIEL
Hmm, how much is it?
KOME
(Leans closer to him)
You know I'm not going to tell you that.
Mr. DANIEL
Hmm, fine but still you shouldn't have.
There is a lot you could have done with that money.
KOME
I know but I just wanted to do this.
Try it out.
(Brings out the watch from the box and places it around his wrist)
"A student walks into the classroom, and Kome quickly moves away from Mr. Daniel."
STUDENT
Sir, you sent for me.
Mr. DANIEL
Yes, I did.
Has everyone submitted their assignment to you?
STUDENT
No, sir.
Mr. DANIEL
Please have everyone submit and bring them to my desk in the staffroom before school closes.
STUDENT
Okay, sir.
Mr. DANIEL
That would be all.
"The student walks out of the classroom"
KOME
I just hope these cameras don't capture us.
Mr. DANIEL
No, they won't.
They won't reach this angle.
KOME
Are you sure about that?
Mr. DANIEL
Yeah.
KOME
Do you like the watch?
Mr. DANIEL
I love it.
Can we eat now?
KOME
Sure.
_____________________________________
INT. WINNER ACADEMY
"Frank turns to Dayo."
FRANK
So what are your plans?
Are you going to confront your Mum about this?
TEGA
Bro, I think you should oh.
This thing is affecting our business, and you know say this cash they important to me.
FRANK
(Turns to Tega)
Are you serious?
Approaching her might make matters worse and let's not forget she did this intending to protect you, Dayo.
Also, just because she knows of Sophia's involvement with drugs, doesn't mean she is aware you are involved. And confronting her might spoil things.
DAYO
So, what do you suggest we do?
FRANK
I think we should lay low for now and let's not forget, Principal Iwebema is desperate more than ever to figure out who is bringing drugs into her school.
TEGA
Hell, no we cannot stop!
We might lose customers to someone bold enough to break the rule. I won't allow anyone to steal my customers. We can't allow it, Dayo!
FRANK
No one will dare do that, Tega.
And it's just for a short while then we are back to business.
But for now, it's too risky.
TEGA
Are sure this is about risk for you, or you are just trying to protect your interest?
FRANK
What's that supposed to mean?
TEGA
Your woman who has refused to attend any of our gatherings.
Who knows if you are making us stall just to keep her away from us.
(Turns to Dayo)
By the way, you have to do something about this since Oga here doesn't have the balls to get things done.
DAYO
(Turns to Frank)
If she doesn't make it to our usual meetings this weekend, I will take matters into my own hands.
And trust me, the outcome might not be pleasant.
"Frank gazes at Dayo who appeared serious."
____________________________________
INT. BOARD MEETING.
"Mrs. Iwebema steps out of the room."
Dr. IKE
How did it go?
Mrs. IWEBEMA
(Takes a deep breath)
The vote was done, and the majority sided with me.
Dr. IKE
Wow, that's good news, then.
It's good to know you are not leaving us soon.
"Dr. Gloria walks into the scene"
Dr. GLORIA
(Wears a mischievous smile)
Congratulations.
Mrs. IWEBEMA
Thank you, Dr. Gloria, and I want to believe your vote was in my favor.
Dr. GLORIA
(Chuckles)
All I can say is that time will tell if you deserve their support.
For now, enjoy it while it lasts.
Excuse me
(Walks out of the scene alongside her folks)
Mrs. IWEBEMA
(Turns to Dr. Ike)
Why does she despise me so much?
"Chairman walks in"
CHAIRMAN
Because she desires what you have.
And she will get it if something like this ever occurs again.
Mrs. IWEBEMA
I apologize for everything that happened, Sir.
I promise to live up to your expectations and not let you down again.
CHAIRMAN
Hmm, I see.
(Walks out of the scene)
___________________________________
INT. WAREHOUSE
"Uche walks in."
UCHE
How far watin happen this morning?
You were supposed to meet me at my place.
CHETA
(Turns to Uche)
Sorry about that bro I overslept.
UCHE
You overslept!
As how na?
(Whispers)
We agreed to see Efe off.
CHETA
I said I overslept bro.
Is that a crime?
UCHE
Guy Efe is leaving today the last thing we could have done for him is to see him off.
Why you dey do like this na?
After watin e don do for you.
CHETA
(Turns to Uche in anger)
Don't you dare!
Don't try and make me feel worse than I already am. You do this all the time.
Read my lips. I overslept which is something anyone can do.
UCHE
Guy, I know but...
CHETA
Then why are you making a big deal out of this?
I know I shouldn't have but I did and I'm sorry.
UCHE
What exactly is going on with you, bro?
You have been acting weird.
CHETA
I'm fine!
What we should be worrying about is what to tell Tiga and others when they ask about Efe's whereabouts.
"Ella walks in."
ELLA
And whatever it is, we have to figure that out as quickly as possible.
(Sits opposite Cheta and lights a stick of F8)
Other workers are beginning to ask questions you know they are not used to his absence.
UCHE
I don't care about the workers what we are going to tell Tiga is what we should be worrying about.
____________________________________
YOU ARE READING
Behind Bars
Roman pour Adolescents"Behind Bars" is a screenplay that tells the story of Efe a 19-year-old genius who was framed for a drug-related crime while on his way to pursue a better life abroad. Efe is sentenced to prison, plunging him into a world of despair and misery. The...
