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Lagos is a blend of heaven, purgatory, and hell, a city where dreams and chaos dance in an endless swirl. The opportunities are limitless, but the challenges are equally imposing. This dichotomy is nowhere more evident than in the notorious traffic jams, where encounters with “area boys” can range from annoying to menacing.
Heaven: The Splendor of Opportunities
In Lagos, heaven is found in the abundant opportunities that await those who dare to dream. It’s a place where aspirations can soar among the high-rises and bustling markets. The city’s economic vibrancy, cultural diversity, and relentless energy offer a paradise for entrepreneurs, artists, and anyone willing to seize the moment. With its ever-evolving skyline and progressive spirit, Lagos is a testament to the fortunes waiting to be harnessed. This is a land of promise, where the future is as bright as the Nigerian sun and possibilities can turn into realities.
Purgatory: The Grueling Grind
However, life in Lagos isn’t without its purgatory—a realm of continuous effort and challenges that test your resilience. The daily grind, characterized by excruciatingly slow commutes and the omnipresent threat of traffic chaos, feels like an endless stint in limbo. It’s in these prolonged waits and tense moments that one’s patience and perseverance are put to the test. Encounters with area boys, who assert control over certain traffic hotspots, add to this sense of purgatory. They often prey on vulnerable commuters, bringing a palpable sense of dread and uncertainty.
Hell: The Menacing Reality
At times, Lagos can also resemble hell, a harsh and unforgiving place where survival instincts are crucial. The menacing reality of dealing with street toughs can be particularly harrowing for women and faint-hearted men, testing even the most seasoned Lagosians. The need to navigate these dangers—whether through keeping cash on hand for appeasement or by skillfully balancing a disarming smile with a stern face—turns every journey into a strategic battle.
Indeed, navigating Lagos traffic demands not just patience but an artful blend of street smarts and situational awareness. With a bit of cash, a flexible demeanor, and the ability to read social cues, you can masterfully maneuver through the chaotic symphony of this extraordinary city, surviving its menacing moments while savoring the unparalleled vibrancy it offers.
In all, I am a very proud Egba man with a mother from the famous Okunnu Family of Lagos Island. I’ve got the ‘Lagos Spirit’ with the Egba sophistication, a heritage that grants me the passport to excel anywhere in the world. Lagos, with its relentless hustle and unyielding heart, is a city I adore—do you?
Lagos: A Beautiful Blend of Heaven, Purgatory & Hell!
Osi-Apagun Lai Labode Ph.D 16th July 2024 Copyright ©️
Emi Omo Ekundayo Titilayo
Emi Omo oniwo kunu toro
Omo oniwo karan bi oko tuntun!
Rest on Ekundayo! Rest !
Tribute to Ekundayo Titilayo Layi-Labode (Nee Okunnu)
