BEYOND THE ABAYA

16. Husnah's Gift: A Brilliant Tutor

"Hey, did Husnah talk to the First Lady last night?" Bisola asked, curiosity etched on her face.

"Yes, she did," I replied, nodding. "Her Excellency called Husnah and was feeling a bit hurt that Husnah would need to call before coming over."

Bisola's eyes widened in surprise. "What? Why would she be hurt?"

I took a deep breath, recounting the conversation. "Apparently, she mentioned that it's Husnah's house too, and she shouldn't feel obligated to announce her arrival. Husnah apologized and explained that she didn't want to drop by unannounced and miss the opportunity to see her."

Bisola nodded understandingly. "That makes sense. Husnah handled it well."

I smiled. "Yeah, and now we're getting ready to head to the State House. The First Lady wants to meet with us."

Bisola's face lit up with excitement. "This is it! Our chance to get closer to the truth. Let's make sure we're prepared."

I nodded in agreement. "Definitely. We'll need to be sharp and observant. Who knows what we'll uncover?"

Husnah walked into the room, overhearing our conversation. "Hey, girls! Islaha ready to go? The First Lady is expecting us."

We exchanged determined glances, then I stood up, ready to face whatever lay ahead. "Let's do this," I said, and we headed out to the State House.

~*~

We waited patiently in the First Lady's private living room, our anticipation growing with each passing moment. The room was elegantly decorated, with intricate furnishings and tasteful artwork adorning the walls. The atmosphere was serene, with a hint of excitement lingering in the air. The maids brought refreshments for us and just as they walked out, the First Lady entered the sitting room. 

Husnah rushed to greet her with a warm hug. The First Lady's face lit up with a bright smile as she returned the embrace.

"Where have you been, Husnah? You used to come by regularly, and now it's like you've forgotten about me," the First Lady chided, a hint of playfulness in her voice. Her eyes sparkled with amusement, and her voice was warm and inviting.

Husnah apologized, explaining that she had been busy with work and other commitments. The First Lady accepted the apology, her expression softening.

"I understand, dear. Life can get busy. But I miss our conversations and your bright smile," she said, her words filled with sincerity.

"How's uncle doing?" Husnah asked with a smile.

"He's in a meeting right now, but he's doing well. Thanks for asking, Husnah."

As Husnah inquired about the Governor, the First Lady's gaze finally fell upon me, standing a few feet away. A warm smile spread across her face as she greeted me.

"Hello, dear." she said, her voice warm and welcoming.

"E Kaasan."(Good Afternoon) i said attempting to show respect by squatting, a traditional greeting in our culture. But the First Lady was quick to wave me off, inviting me to stand upright.

"Bawo ni?" (How're you?).

"Mo wa daadaa. ( I'm fine.)

"Ok please have your seats."

"Uhmmm ...Aunt, I'd like to introduce my best friend and childhood friend, Islahat Abubakar. She's a lawyer and an excellent academic. We studied together in the UK, and I can attest to her exceptional skills." Husnah said as soon as we sat down.

"Inumidun lati pada e (Nice meeting you). Welcome to the Lagos State House." The first lady said to me with a smile.

"Thank you, Your Excellency. It's an honor to meet you." I replied.

"I brought Islaha today because I know Muyinat has been struggling with her A-levels studies. I thought perhaps she could offer some guidance and support as a tutor. And I must say, she's uniquely qualified for the task."

"Oh? How so?" The first lady said with interest.

"Islaha was the best graduating student of our set in Nigerian Law School. Her academic achievements are impressive, and I have no doubt she'll make a fantastic tutor."

"Wow, that's impressive! Congratulations, Islaha. We could definitely use your expertise here." She said to me.

"Thank you, Your Excellency. I'd be happy to help Muyinat with her studies. I specialize in law and I can also assist with study techniques and exam preparation."

"Wonderful! I'll arrange for you to meet with Muyinat soon. Thank you, Husnah, for thinking of Muyinat."

"It's my pleasure, Aunt. I know how important education is. Besides, Muyinat is like the younger sister i never had.

"You're too kind, Husnah. Now, let's get Muyinat involved and discuss the details."

(pressing the intercom) "Muyinat, dear, Ibo lo wa?(where are you?). please come to my living room. We have a guest.

"Omo odun meloo ni o."(How old are you?) It took me seconds to realise she was actually talking to me.

"Omo odun metalelogun ni mi." (I'm 23 years old)

A moment later, Muyinat entered the room, gave Husnah a big hug and a kiss on the cheek.

"Hey, sister Husnah! I'm so glad you're here!" Said an excited Muyina

"Hey, little one! I brought a special gift for you." Husnah said but Muyinat knew better because she rolled her eyes before laughing.

Muyinat noticing me for the first time "Oh, Ta niyen?" (Who is that?)

Husnah knocked her head.

Muyinat pouted "Ouch! Sister Husy... I've forgotten but you can still speak a little Yoruba na even if not fluently."

" I know i can speak a little but still..." We all laughed at that. 

"This is Islaha, Husnah's childhood friend and a brilliant lawyer. She's here to help you with your A-levels studies." The first Lady explained.

"Ohh she's the Islaha! I've heard so much about you! Husnah's always talking about you."

I smiled "Nice to meet you, Muyinat. Husnah and I have been friends for a long time."

"So, Islaha, I understand you specialize in law and Muyinat is struggling with her law subjects." The first lady said.

Muyinat turning to Husnah "Thanks for bringing Aunt Islaha, Sister Husnah. You always know just what I need."

Husnah smiled "Anytime, little one. I want to see you succeed. I'll leave you all to discuss the details. I'll go grab food from the kitchen."

But before Husnah exited the living room, leaving the first lady, Muyinat, and me to discuss Muyinat's studies, she asked whether the first lady needed to see my credentials to which the First Lady said no as she trusted Husnah's judgement. Hearing that, I mentally sighed because she didn't need to know my Dad.

I must say, Her Excellency Aminat Abass Bankole was even more pleasant in person. Her warmth, elegance, and kindness radiate effortlessly, making everyone feel welcome and valued.

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