As though an oracle had come to me, so also was the urge to write my story. I became aware that the nature of writing involved shall require some research into pre-historic African societies, with a view to relate to the towns and villages of Igboland and the Niger-Delta where my story took its root, even prior to my existence. Yet, the timing of this desire to write was such that peace seemed to have eluded me; following some set-backs which I described in the third part of my trilogy and parts of the post-script that followed. Whilst taking stock of my past and present condition in relation to my surroundings, the investigator soon became the investigated, prompting me to skip through pertinent aspects, episodes and narratives, in my quest to publish my first book seven years prior. In particular, the Afro-centric narratives contained in this story of our common humanity had to be told in a way that the author can be detached from the story, despite being the primary subject of investigation. As such, it became necessary to delve into some historical anecdotes, whilst also bringing to life the experience of living in Abayi, Aba; on a street called Shalom Road.
About the Author: I was born in Scotland, and grew up in Nigeria where my family originated. I hold a degree in Politics from London Metropolitan University, where I penned my first major thesis titled: Democracy and Democratization in Nigeria-The Way Forward. The knowledge I gleaned from my academic thesis and my unique personal experiences came together beautifully in my recently published novel so well narrated in every literal sense. For me, growing up and attending school in Nigeria were both rewarding and punishing. I attended an elite primary school where as a bright kid; I was awarded the privilege of skipping the last grade to head straight for my secondary school education. Although my secondary school days were liberating, that period was marred with the struggles of a youngling grappling with the harsh realities of boarding school and the growing pains of having to cycle through six secondary schools within the span of about six years. After sitting for the University Entrance Exams in Nigeria, I came out with flying colors, particularly in subjects of Government & Politics. I had my sights set on pursuing a degree in the Humanities and Social Sciences especially after reading some of my mother's notes on the topic, but the family had other prospects for me to become an engineer like my brother. In line with my family's expectation, I enrolled into a Pre- Science degree which was short-lived after a lengthy strike action. It was at this fateful juncture that I found the British High Commission, obtained my passport and left Nigeria. Since returning to the U.K, I have diligently studied and worked hard, traveled to interesting destinations around the world, and acquired many interesting and insightful experiences worthy of writing about. I also hold a Masters Degree in International Law from the University of Glasgow. My Nigerian experiences could be found written nicely in this book as well as in When Mother Cries 1, whilst many of my insightful experiences since returning to the UK, and embarking on some international encounters, could be found written nicely in volumes 2 and 3, as well as in my Post-Script; Will To Live.