Moria and Mulika begin their journey. A journey that will take them from Ibadan through Akanran to Ijebu-Igbo to interview and obtain information about Agbekoya from those who are still living and have first account of the story
As Moria reconnects with familiar streets and childhood landmarks, her bond with Mulika deepens, revealing painful truths and shared resilience. Their stay at the Premier Hotel becomes a sanctuary for reflection, laughter, and healing, where Mulika’s trauma is met with compassion and a promise of renewal. Beneath the surface lies a story of rediscovery—of a city, of friendship, and of the courage to begin again
Though Moria had always known that fate had placed her and Mulika on separate paths, her warm welcome hadn’t driven home the reality of their divergent lives. It wasn’t until she stepped into Mulika’s room that the differences became painfully clear. The difference between Mulika’s living conditions and her own comfortable Massachusetts life was immense. Life, she was sure, had dealt her a far gentler hand. And here they were, years later, reunited by the very story that had changed their lives in different ways, a story Moria was only now beginning to grasp fully.
Twenty-seven years after, Moria arrives Ibadan to revisit the event that changed her life permanently. As unfortunate as the event was, it gave her the remarkable life she now has
"Stepping on a Viper" centres on the tragic story of Mulika. Her promising future was shattered when she was forced into a child marriage, a decision that crushed her dreams of getting an education. Following the marriage, she gave birth to a son. Overwhelmed and seeking a new path, Mulika eventually fled her village, and her current location is unknown. This event, which led to the dissolution of the forced marriage, ignites a deep and lasting feud between Ajireni and the Baale, making them sworn enemies.
Moria returns to Lagos after 27 years, filled with anticipation and uncertainty, and is greeted by Denrele, who escorts her through the city’s chaotic yet vibrant streets to a luxurious Ikoyi penthouse. As she takes in the stark contrasts of Lagos—from bustling markets and Makoko’s stilt houses to opulent high-rises—she reflects on her mission to reconnect with her roots and uncover the truth about the Agbekoya Uprising. Gazing over the lagoon with a glass of wine, she feels an unexpected sense of belonging in the city she once left behind.