Chapter 9: Voices on the Podium
The entire school of Bosol was on edge. From the youngest JSS1 student to the tallest SS3 boy, everyone knew that Manifesto Day was more than just a few speeches. It was a moment that could shape the next academic year. Students would rise—or fall—on the strength of their voice, their poise, and their heart.
The multipurpose hall was packed before 9:00 a.m.
Teachers sat at the front: Mrs. Ayoade with her notepad ready, Mr. Daniel calmly sipping from a small bottle of water, and Mr. Rasheed checking the order of speeches. The Director and Directress sat in the middle, watching everyone with steady eyes.
The prefectship hopefuls, dressed in spotless uniforms, sat in a separate section at the front. The Head Prefect candidates would go last.
As the National Anthem echoed through the hall and the students settled into silence, the event began.
Sanitation Prefect speeches were first.
A short SS2 boy named Kolade walked to the stage with shaky hands. "Good morning…" he began. His voice cracked, but he pushed on. "If elected, I will ensure that the toilets are cleaned regularly and the school environment is tidy every day."
A few chuckles rose from the back, but Mr. Rasheed's stern glance silenced them.
Next came the Time Keeper candidates. Elumezie stepped forward with a proud grin. His voice was confident.
"Being punctual is not just about time," he said. "It's about discipline, self-respect, and respect for others. If chosen, I'll make sure the bell rings on time—every time. No teacher, no student, will be left guessing."
Applause rang out. Even some teachers nodded in approval.
After that came the Social Prefect category. Victory stood and walked to the podium. She looked around, took a breath, and smiled.
"I'm not here because I talk the most or know everyone's birthday," she began. Laughter broke out. "I'm here because I know how to bring people together. Bosol deserves fun, safe, and meaningful events. If you vote for me, I'll make sure every special occasion is one we never forget."
She bowed, returned to her seat, and was met with a fist bump from Bimbo and a thumbs-up from Ayomide.
By the time Sports, Library, and Dining Prefect candidates had spoken, tension in the hall was mounting.
Now came the moment everyone had been waiting for.
"Head Prefect candidates," Mr. Rasheed announced, "step forward."
Four students rose: Ajiboye, Ayomide, a bold boy named Michael from SS2C, and a quiet but smart girl named Ruth from SS2B.
"Ladies first," Mr. Rasheed said.
Ayomide walked up to the podium slowly. She placed her two hands on the wooden stand and scanned the crowd. For a moment, the room was still.
"Good morning, staff and students of Bosol," she said clearly. "My name is Adeniji Ayomide from SS2A, and I'm standing here not just to ask for your votes, but to show you what leadership can be."
She continued:
"I believe leadership is quiet service—not loud commands. Leadership is when you help your classmate finish her punishment quietly, not for praise but because it's right. Leadership is being the first to arrive and the last to leave—not because you're forced, but because you care."
She paused and looked at the Directress.
"I don't claim to be perfect. But I promise to listen, to act, and to lead with honesty. Thank you."
The applause was thunderous. Even some SS3 students murmured, "That girl's sharp."
Next came Ajiboye. He smiled broadly and gave a small wave as he reached the microphone.
"My name is Precious Ajiboye from SS2A," he began. "I believe in unity. I believe in kindness. And I believe in excellence."
He stepped forward.
"In Bosol, I've served by helping organize class notes, mediating small fights, and even waking boys up for morning assembly—ask the hostel warden." Laughter filled the room.
"But beyond that, I want to be a Head Boy that listens. I want to represent both students and staff. I don't want to be feared—I want to be trusted. I want to make every student proud to wear this green uniform with white socks and black shoes."
He ended with a smile and the motto: "Because God is our Refuge."
Cheers erupted.
Michael and Ruth also gave decent speeches, but it was clear the real competition was between Ajiboye and Ayomide. Their calm confidence, school service, and connection to their peers made them favorites.
After all the speeches, Mr. Daniel stepped up.
"You have heard their voices. Now, it is time to make your choice," he said. "Voting will take place next week Monday. Think. Pray. Choose wisely."
As students walked out in their lines, murmuring about who they would vote for, a small scene unfolded near the hallway.
"Victory," Ayomide said, "thank you for standing with me."
"You've always stood with me. That's what friends do."
Behind them, Ajiboye caught up. "No matter what happens," he said, "we all win. Bosol is in good hands."
The three friends stood at the edge of the hallway, looking out at the school they loved.
The sun was rising higher now, casting golden light on the motto above the hall's entrance:
> "God is our Refuge."
And somewhere, just beyond that rising sun, the future of Bosol waited—shaped by the voices of today.