Abban Sojoji – Part 1
The story begins with the sound of marching boots, echoing across the military parade ground. Soldiers in full uniform stood in straight lines, the sun blazing overhead, their faces firm and disciplined. Among them was Abba, a young man known by everyone as Abban Sojoji — “The Father of Soldiers.”
He was not just a soldier by profession, but one by spirit. His courage, obedience, and loyalty to his country made him different from the rest. But deep within his chest, beyond the soldier’s uniform, lived a heart full of love — a heart that belonged to someone special.
Her name was Zainabu, a beautiful and humble girl from a quiet northern village. Abba first met her during his short break from service, when he visited home to see his mother. It was one of those quiet evenings, when the sun was setting, painting the sky red. Zainabu was at the well, fetching water, when Abba passed by.
Their eyes met — and something unexplainable happened. Abba, who had faced war and danger, suddenly felt weak. The strength that made him a fearless soldier couldn’t stop his heart from racing. Zainabu too felt something strange, though she tried to hide it. She greeted him shyly and lowered her gaze, as tradition demanded.
From that moment, Abba couldn’t stop thinking about her. During his time in the barracks, while others talked about war, he was lost in thoughts of Zainabu — her smile, her eyes, and the innocence in her voice.
One day, he made up his mind. When next he got a pass from duty, he would go to her father’s house and speak his heart. But life had other plans.
Just a week before his leave, news came that his battalion had been deployed to a dangerous mission in the northern border. The war against insurgents had grown stronger, and Abba’s team was needed immediately. He couldn’t refuse the call of duty.
He stood at the edge of his bed that night, holding his gun, thinking about Zainabu. He whispered softly,
“If it’s destiny, I’ll come back. If not, at least my heart has known love.”
The next morning, they set out in armored vehicles, dust rising behind them as the sound of engines filled the air.
Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. Battles were fought and lives were lost. Abba remained strong, a true warrior. Yet in his dreams, he still saw Zainabu — waiting by the well, smiling.
Back home, Zainabu prayed for his safety every night. She kept his memory alive in her heart, refusing every proposal that came her way.
After six long months, Abba finally returned, tired but alive. When he arrived in the village, word spread fast — Abban Sojoji had come home. Children followed him, singing songs of bravery. But in his eyes, he was looking for only one thing — Zainabu.
And when he finally saw her again, their eyes met just as before, and everything stood still.