Alhaji walked him outside and had Ubale take him home.
Back in the sitting room, Aunt Basira addressed Nabila:
“Nabila, as you can see, we have all gathered here because of you. We’re happy for you. May Allah increase your success.”
Everyone said “Amin.”
Nabila said, “Aunty Basira, did I hear you call me Hajiya Nabila?”
Aunt Na’ima answered, “Of course.”
Nabila said, “Actually, I don’t deserve to go for Hajj this year. My mother deserves it more. So I’m giving her my Hajj seat.”
Her mother’s eyes filled with tears. “Alhaji, did you hear what Nabila said? What do you think?”
Alhaji said, “It’s fine. If that’s what she wants. InshaAllah she’ll go for Hajj later when she studies in Madina.”
Her mother burst into emotional tears of joy.
Alhaji Sha’aban
People crowded the home of Alhaji Sha’aban in Federal Lowcost, Gashua. For years, he had fed and supported people whenever he was in Nigeria. Today, he had returned again and resumed his charitable work as usual.
Three Days Later
Nabila sat applying henna on her fingers when her phone rang. Without checking the name, she answered.
“Hello besty,” Falila said.
“Hello besty,” Nabila replied.
Excitedly, Falila said, “Besty, say Allahu Akbar!”
“Allahu Akbar! What happened?”
Falila said, “The H.O.D who has been doing evil for long—his time is up. You know the girl he made class rep after…”
