TwoCents | OMÓ ÉSAN: The End Of Vengeance

Many know my story; if you don't, you were born last night. I wasn't always like this, but I am not going back to who I was. I believe my destiny was forged by the gods, and like Ares, I will bring war to those who cross me. I've known pain, death, love, fear, and hope. I now know that the biggest enemy is the man in the mirror. To many, I have been hiding from the government, but I am the government. You see, I wasn't called a genius for nothing in my early days toiling the streets of Lagos.  It became clear that those in power needed me to stay in power. My bone man, Kpalobi, helped me see the bigger picture. He made me see that I could have all I wanted because I was no longer merely a man but a god in Nigeria. I became the poster child of the struggle for freedom. The seed my friend sowed in my heart became a burning forest, and no one likes a wild fire. Maybe I was destined for great things, but wielding great power intoxicates you. Power became my liquor, and having Kpalobi by my side only fueled my hunger. It soon became clear that he was second in command. We became the very people we fought against. Corrupt politicians started paying us to protect them and ensure they stayed in power. I became the only kingmaker and a power broker. My ideals changed, and I unlocked Pandora's box, leaving Karma at my doorstep. There were times where I reflected on my journey, but that reflection darkened as I became a shadow of myself. Like a pharaoh, my heart became hardened, and I started enslaving my own people. I knew it wasn't right, but I still went on. Kpalobi handled most issues for me while I battled my demons. He was more or less a proxy boss and was great at treating people's fuckups. There were loud whispers on the streets that I had lost my way and that another king had emerged. I flamed up and waged war to bring the king down. Drowning in my rage, I became myopic.Hanging on this cross at Oshodi Train Terminal with my death in view has brought me clarity. It's three minutes before the train crushes me, and I have finally connected the dots. I brought this upon myself, but the seed was sown by someone else, my good friend Kpalobi. He did this all because of Peculiar. Peculiar was my queen, but she was first his princess. They broke up a year before I left prison, although I had somewhat of a thing for her. Now I see why his favourite quote was Never Take Another Man's Gold. You see, he never addressed her by name but preferred calling her Gold. I thought my death would come during a government crackdown. This death is beneath me. My end happens to stem from within my inner circle. Sometimes those within our circles push us out of line. The son of Vengeance has finally met Vengeance. Kpalobi, I see you in the crowd, smiling and thinking you've won. This is a victory for you, but this is not the end the king.Train horns twice, the lights get brighter, Omo Esan closes his eyes, and... May be continued...

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