RACHAEL IYOKHO
I am angry! Do you know what I bring to the table? Without me, there is no Afang. I shrink tumours. I boost blood levels. I am a rich source of vitamins! I battle diabetes. Pregnant women are instructed to eat me. I know you are wondering what the cause of my anger is. I will tell you. It all began with a collaboration. Being the best duo was our vision. I worked very hard with Afang. We were supposed to be called ‘Watafang,’ because without me, Afang had zero taste.
It had been only two years since we began to work together. Mama Asuquo was the first person to hear us. Yes, we spoke to her. We told her to cook us together. She listened and was amazed at the sumptuous taste we made. In fact, she realised Afang tasted terrible without me, but I still wonder why she called our result ‘Afang.’ It was team work. Without me, there is no ‘Afang’ taste. I bring out the taste from Afang. Afang exists because of me. Why should Afang take all the glory?
Look at Beans and Yam. They are a duo, an incredible one. Bitterleaf does all the work, and she takes all the glory. That I understand. Banga soup is the result of palmfruits and some bitterleaves, and nobody called their result ‘Palmfruit’ or ‘Bitterleaf.’ Why then should Afang take all the glory? After our handwork together?
I feel neglected! Being a waterleaf is sad. Even with Editan, nobody calls us ‘Watereditan.’
I pour out my heart to you so you can help. Being neglected isn’t a good feeling. When I get sad, my leaves shrink, and I become ugly. Please tell Mama Asuquo to change our name to ‘Waterafang.’ I want my input to be known, too! I want to feel important, too! Even if I’m called Waterleaf, I do not have watery feelings. My feelings are genuine just like yours. I will be grateful if you can help me…
RACHEL IYOKHO
is a graduate of English from the University of Lagos. She is enthusiastic about the least important things. She is working towards being a voice-over artist.