Bena's Narrative

# # ALI THE WISE MAN... episode 1

The air was thick with heat in the Akpolo market. Ali, a young trader found himself in a predicament. He had accidentally insulted Baba Femi, the market's most powerful and notoriously unforgiving trader. Baba Femi, a man whose temper was as fiery as the midday sun, had sworn vengeance. He sent his men to Ali's shop, to get hold of him so he could deal with Ali.
Ali over saw Baba Femi's men coming, he knew he couldn't fight them, their numbers were overwhelming. He had to run for his life. He quickly locked his shop and ran to his mother's village. Baba Femi’s men were everywhere looking for Ali in Akpolo community but couldn't find him.

Ali sought refuge with his mother, a respected elder known for her wisdom and compassion in the village of Okife. His mother offered him sanctuary within her humble hut while he made plans on how to go about with Baba Femi.

Days turned into weeks as Ali planned his return under his mother's guidance and support. He wasn’t just thinking about escaping Baba Femi, he was contemplating how to secure his future in the market without fear of further retaliation. He learned to control his temper, to use diplomacy instead of just insults, and how to navigate the market's complex power dynamics. He joined forces with others who wanted to stand up to Baba Femi.

Ali's associates went to see Baba Femi to have a peaceful meeting, the next day, Ali returned to the market and went straight to Baba Femi shop. He negotiated a fair deal with Baba Femi, that solved the problem peacefully and so, Ali returned to his shop without fear of Baba Femi vengeance.

Ali’s story became legendary in Akpolo markets – the tale of the trader who understood that sometimes “to run” was not about cowardice but about strategic retreat.
He proved that true strength lies in a combination of physical and mental abilities, like courage, wisdom, and strategic thinking.

Watch out for episode 2