This is such an amazing prompt, and I can really relate to it because it reflects a major problem here in Nigeria. Almost every Nigerian has found themselves in this kind of situation.
“Up NEPA!” the children, including myself, would scream at the top of our voices whenever electricity was restored, adults often joined in too.
“NEPA” is a power holding company in Nigeria, responsible for electricity distribution across states.
I recall an event that took place last year when my cousin Sterling stayed with my family for a while. He lived nearby but preferred staying at our place since it was closer to his workplace. It was always fun having him around. He often expressed how much he disliked his current job and how he would leave once a better opportunity came.
“This work is way too stressful for the amount of money we get paid at the end of the month,” he would say.
“A job is better than no job at all. Stick to this one until greener pastures are found. At least it pays your bills,” my mother would advise.
One day, he finally received a call for an interview at a company where he had submitted his curriculum vitae. It was a renowned oil company. He was so excited that he went to buy new shoes, shirts, and trousers, all for the interview.
“I need to look my best, because looking good is what?” he would ask.
“Good business!” my relatives and I would reply. His catchphrases were always fun to respond to.
I remember it like it was yesterday. Two days before the interview, electricity was available. I urged him to iron his clothes while power was still on because the power holding company was unpredictable and could cut the supply at any time. But Sterling refused.
“Big bro,” as I normally called him,
“How about you iron your clothes for the interview today? You know how the power holding company is, they can cut power anytime,” I warned.
“Nah, I’m certain they wouldn’t want to mess up my big day. I’ll just do it tomorrow when I feel like. I don’t really feel the vibe right now. Besides, don’t be negative man,
be positive, okay?” he countered.
“You’ve got high hopes for someone living in this part of the country, brother. Well, I hope it works out for you,” I replied, trying to plant the idea in his mind.
But nothing worked, and he left his clothes unattended until the next day. Just when he was about to iron them, the electricity went off. Still, he remained calm, hoping it would return later that night, but it didn’t.
The morning of the interview came. He was supposed to leave at 8:00 a.m. for a 10:00 a.m. appointment. He was so frustrated and upset because his clothes were in bad shape. This would have been the perfect time to say, “I told you so,” but I felt as bad as he did, so I couldn’t rub it in. We had to find an alternative quickly.
“How about you take them to the laundry man down the street? He’s usually working by this time,” I suggested.
“That’s true! How didn’t I think of that? I’ll head there immediately!” Sterling replied, dashing off.
Unfortunately, Sterling ended up arriving too late for the interview. By the time he got there, it had already ended, and no one was available to attend to him. He was heartbroken, and I felt really bad for him.
“Better opportunities will come, brother,” I said, trying to comfort him, though I knew he was the architect of his own misfortune.
Thank you for reading 🥂
The image used is mine.
