Wisdom library.

Tenant Series: The Chronicles of a Broke Graduate

I watched through the window as my landlord, Mr. Ademola, knocked on my neighbor's door. I knew that knock all too well - it was the "pay your rent or get out" knock. I've been on the receiving end of that knock a few times, and let me tell you, it's not a pleasant experience.

My name is Innom, and I'm a recent graduate from a reputable polytechnic. I'm not sure what's more impressive, the fact that I graduated or the fact that I'm still alive after surviving the downs of Nigerian education.

I recently moved out of my parents' house, tired of their high expectations and constant criticism. I mean, who needs that kind of stress in their life? My parents were happy to let me go, which makes me wonder if they wanted to get rid of me all along. Maybe they were just tired of my constant requests for money.

Back to the present, I ducked down to avoid being seen by Mr. Ademola. My neighbor, Oga James, seemed to be struggling to pay his rent. It's ironic, given that he runs his generator almost 24/7, disturbing the peace. I'm starting to think he's secretly trying to power the whole compound.

This compound is nothing special. It's small, with no parking space for my future Benz (which I'll probably never be able to afford). And don't even get me started on the 4 AM queues for the bathroom. It's like they expect us to be morning people or something.

My landlord approached my room, and my heart skipped a beat. I hadn't paid my rent yet, and I was hoping to avoid him. I've been dodging him for weeks, hiding behind my curtains like a fugitive.

Landlord: "Mr. man, I know you're in there. Open this door at once."

Me: "Sir, I'm not around oh."

I clapped my hand over my mouth, realizing too late that I had spoken out loud. My mom always warned me that my mouth would get me into trouble one day. I guess she was right.

TBC