KATANGA

Malam Ahmadu was born in the town of Zaria. He inherited his scholarship from his father, Malam Buba. Unfortunately, his mother passed away when he was a child, so he lived with his father until he married his wife, Asabe. Eventually, Ahmadu’s life was taken by God. Mr. Buba, then Mr. Ahmadu, continued to lead his father through his teachings.

God blessed Ahmadu with three children: Abdullahi, Maryam, and his son Shamsu. Abdullahi, who took over his father’s footsteps, owns a shop in the market where he sells measuring instruments.

It was Ahmadu who chose Abdullahi’s wife, who happened to be the daughter of his close friend. Their houses were connected, and their parents arranged their marriage. They live together as a happy family, despite the opposition of a jealous slave mother who resents them.

Asabe, now known as Iya, faced a challenge when she expressed disapproval of Abdullahi marrying a blind woman. Ahmadu disagreed with her and believed that love should not be hindered by physical disabilities.

Abdullahi and Maimuna deeply loved each other and were fully supported by their families. Meanwhile, Yusuf, who had his eye on Maryam, sought permission from Ahmadu to court her.

Abdullahi and Maryam’s wedding date was set, and Ahmadu built a separate house for Abdullahi, consisting of three rooms. Before the wedding festivities, Maryam was taken to the neighborhood of Sabongari.

Abdullahi and Maimuna enjoyed a peaceful life without any major problems. Ahmadu showered his mother-in-law with love and care, and their relationship was amicable. After a month of marriage, Maimuna gave birth to two children, bringing more joy and prosperity to their lives. However, Ahmadu noticed his daughter’s pregnancy, but chose not to confront her about it.

Maimuna gave birth to a beautiful daughter, bringing immense happiness to Abdullahi and Ahmadu. The community warmly welcomed the new addition to the family. However, Ahmadu’s mother-in-law expressed disdain for the child, believing she was a product of evil.

Ignoring the negativity, Ahmadu named his granddaughter Aisha, while Maimuna suggested the name Nusrat. Ahmadu continued to pour his love and care onto his granddaughter, despite the criticism from his mother-in-law.

A month later, Maryam gave birth to a daughter named Rabee’ah, whom they called Hidayah. Nusrat, at three months old, was the only granddaughter who received special attention, as she was Ahmadu’s first grandchild.

A few months later, Iya pressured Ahmadu into marrying a widow who was struggling financially. In order to maintain peace and reduce Iya’s animosity towards Maimuna, Ahmadu suggested Abdullahi marry the widow. Although reluctant at first, Abdullahi agreed to his father’s request.

After their marriage, Bulki, Abdullahi, and Maimuna lived harmoniously. They understood that it was not about fairness, but rather accepting that a man can have multiple wives. One part of Abdullahi belonged to Maimuna, one to Bulki, and the other to his duty as a husband.

One year after Nusrat’s birth, Maimuna gave birth to a daughter named Safiyya Shukhura, while Bulki gave birth to Zainab, whom they called Nimha. Iya and Bulki expressed their disapproval of Nimha, favoring Nusrat and taking away all the dolls from her.

Nusrat had a dark complexion, a thin face with a long nose, medium-sized eyes with a small brown hue, and water glistening in

 them. Her eyeballs were black with a touch of brown silk. Her lips were thin, and a faint dimple appeared when she smiled, enhancing her beauty. Shukhura, on the other hand, possessed natural beauty with flushed cheeks even when not smiling. Yusra resembled Shukhura but lacked the dimple.

Nusrat is now fifteen years old and in senior secondary school (SSS1), while Shukhura is fourteen years old and in junior secondary school (JSS3). Yusra, their younger sister, is in primary school, currently in the fourth grade.

Four years ago, Malam Ahmadu passed away after a short illness, leaving behind a significant loss for the family. Nusrat especially felt the absence of her beloved grandfather and tried to conceal her grief, as she didn’t want to burden others.

Abdullahi, whom they now call Baba, took over the responsibility of providing for the family. He was a generous and kind-hearted man, ensuring their needs were met. The family lived in relative comfort despite their modest means.

Shamsu married Fiddausi, and they had a daughter named Amima, also known as Zainab. Shamsu also married Iya, and they resided in Kaduna, where he worked. Shamsu’s wealth surpassed Abdullahi’s, highlighting the difference between their financial situations. Maryam and her husband moved back to Kano for work, and they were blessed with four children: Hidayah, Abdul, Hibba, and Abbas. Maryam received financial support from her brother, Abdullahi.