Greetings From Pakoto Village

The first time I learnt of our(school) trip to a rural village in Ogun state, west of Nigeria, I wasn’t particularly enthusiastic about the trip, neither did I look forward to the adventure. I was more concerned about the various opportunities I’ll miss while away.
The day of the journey drew closer and frankly I was still indifferent about it. My classmates and I converged at the school car park and after loading our belongings into the bus, we were set for the journey. Various conversations ensued among us as we commenced our journey. About an hour, thirty minutes, we finally arrived at Ogun state.
The first view of Pakoto village was quite enthralling. The calm and serene environment was a sharp contrast from the bustling in Lagos. The air smelt so fresh and clean, devoid of the dark choking smoke that contaminated our air in Lagos. 
My first night at Pakoto was actually a good one. We found ways to entertain ourselves with a deck and microphone,soon, a mini karaoke was formed.  I was soon to discover that some of my classmates were characters, loosing it with the crazy dance moves they exhibted and entertained us with. Despite the power shortage (black out), I had a good sleep. The cool night breeze made up for it.
Morning came and the real work started. After hours of going up and down, sharing questionnaires and collecting data from the people in the community, I was beginning to seriously curse.  The next two days was akin to the first, except this time we visited a market and a school, did blood pressure checks, gave health talks, conducted a health post, gave immunizations e.t.c. The monotony was starting to get to me and I was seriously counting down to friday (depature). 
Today was a bit different tho. Omg you guys! The things I saw today, I’m just too amazed.  We went to a traditional birth place where I saw and heard some really strange things and a mountain top where mad people are treated.


Tonight is the last night and as it is custom, a party has to go down!! Presently, sitting round a bonfire and drinking palm wine(my first time).
After all is said and done, this trip wasn’t so bad(minus the stress of going up and down). Bonded with some of my classmates I never thought I’ll bond with, lost my temper a few times too.lol. Although, I’m still really excited about heading back to lasgidi(Lagos) tomorrow. 
Yaaaaayyyyyy!
I should prolly put up some pictures from the whole stay here tomorrow.
😀


                                                           Cassandra Ikegbune
                                                           xoxo