Apo Filling Station, Gariki, Enugu: A Den for the Wayward Ones
by Uchenna Kaiser Egbujie
For all who have had the experience, the very mention of Apo Filling Station rakes up bitter memories that leave ashes in the mouth. It is not a filling station as the name implies, do not be deceived.
This corner of the universe is a popular junction situated around the outskirts of Gariki, Enugu and locally regarded as bandit territory.
It is the default grooming ground for thieves and pickpockets who well trained for coordinated snatch-and-run. It is a den and home for many youths, who continue to seek and sample power as it gives them permission to converge and practice numerous street learned crafts.
Even as society frowns on such learning as the wrong kind of craft. Here, minds are bent, heads are turned, promising hands are taught to handle contrabands, smuggle weapons and smoke weed. The young, old, homeless and/or exploring are welcome. It allows for experimentation and learning. Most importantly, they are taught how to survive on the streets.
It calls out to so many inquiring, “Come for fun, leave with power”.
If you ever come visiting or pass through the route, the first thing about Apo filling station that catches your attention is the supercharged energy in its environs with its teeming population that continues to swell and build, especially by the evening hours.
The blaring loudspeakers from vendors and record stores, the incessant honking of vehicle horns trapped in traffic, the chatter of children, and catcalls from street boys. They all contribute to the variegated sounds of Apo. A pulsing place of music, noise, and people.
It is the nerve center for commercial activities within the Gariki axis, but when you pass by, don’t let anything distract you.
Even if you are driving and stuck in traffic, do not even let the sound of your own car stereo distract. Keep it down!
Keep your eyes peeled, ears pricked, and sensitivity level at a hundred and ten.
Ensure valuables like jewelry, phones, tablets or laptops are not within sight, especially if you are seated close to the window. If possible, wind up.
The miscreants of Apo Filling Station are well-trained in spotting a potential snatch. They know the regulars versus those just passing through.
If ever the bright glow from your phone’s screen catches their attention, you will be approached with careful stealth. They become the hunter, and you, soon to be bushmeat.
Following behind you, they will trail, waiting for the perfect second to engage their fast fingers, and that will be the end of it. Their strike is always lightning-fast, you never see it coming. Gifted with perfect reflexes and quick legs, they will disappear into the nearest street corner before you even get a chance to protect yourself.
And if you do decide to chase after them, be sure to have more than your own legs. Engage the services of about four to six more legs. Only that way, may you stand a chance of apprehending the thief.
Considering, the congested neighborhood and complex road network, you will find it challenging staying close to their heels. They cut corners fast as they know every street corner and hideouts like the hand knows its way to the mouth even at night.
At Apo filling station Enugu, valuables change ownership within minutes. This is not a fabricated tale. It is real and Apo continues to pulse and teem with villans and victims to date.
And while every town has its dreaded territory, I can only bring to light for the unaware, my own.
Be safe and vigilant.
