Eid road trip with Epa and friends

Vacation is what you give yourself when your soul says “go,” even when your pocket is whispering “are you mad?”

Adventure, on the other hand, is second nature to me.

So, here’s a recap of my Eid road trip with Epa – a trip filled with unexpected detours, laughter, monkey sightings, fuel drama, and a mountain climb. Buckle up.

Cuddles, Wake-Up Calls, and 3:00 a.m. Alarms

My day began with my emotional fur baby, Moori, deciding that cuddles and kisses were more urgent than sleep. She licked and bit my face lovingly like she knew I was leaving. I miss her already 😢.

After feeding and cleaning up, I packed up and was ready to head to our muster point. I'd made arrangements for a bike to take me to the junction where I'd meet T. ride. But of course – plot twist – T. ride cancelled. I called the bike guy at 4:15 a.m.; he said he was on his way. I booked an Uber in the meantime, but guess what? The bike didn’t show. I had to beg the Uber driver to come in and pick me from my end – God bless that man.

25 minutes later, the bike guy finally arrived, explaining he was delayed because of police patrols. Nigeria and wahala = 5 & 6. Anyway, I made it to the muster point before anyone else (yes, the irony). These same people had been screaming "be punctual" and even called us at 4:00 a.m. sharp. Please, somebody clap for me.

And We’re Off! (Almost)

We were supposed to leave Abuja by 5:30 a.m. I was there on the dot, joined by the bus pilot, then Jay Fancy, Valery (who showed up even though she wasn’t feeling great), Maxy, France, Eniola, Mally, Peruzzi, Chef Titi, and of course, Epa – our trip MVP – who arrived late thanks to his boys, Hercule and Siefiey. Mr. Jossie and a few others came shortly after.

Our trip officially kicked off at 6:20 a.m. on Eid day, heading to Obudu. We stopped at Abacha Road Junction to pick up "Man of Faith" and "Amazing" (nicknames, I promise).

Let me take a moment to salute Epa, the real MVP. This man went out of his way to ensure everyone was comfortable. A true leader and father figure. Sir, may your rivers of blessings never run dry. Amen.

19 Souls, One Coaster Bus

We were 19 vibrant human beings in one AC-powered coaster bus, complete with legroom and vibes. Music, food, laughter, and banter filled the bus like party jollof. As a Muslim, I was looking forward to observing my Eid prayer on the road, so I kept an eye out.

In Toto village, I asked a kind elderly man when they’d be praying – 9:30 a.m., he said. While my people teased me about missing out on Eid meat, I exchanged smiles and greetings with Eddie and Blazzier (still not sure if that’s his real name or a stage name). They bought goat meat and other essentials, and we moved on.

Ten minutes later, we found a group of Muslims gathering to pray. I hopped out, joined the prayer, and was deeply grateful to my squad for waiting. I was the only Muslim lady in the group, and their tolerance and support meant everything. Thank you, again.

Of Banter, Monkeys, and Tyre Trouble

Now let me tell you – these my people and banter? Like bread and butter. There was so much laughter that sleep had to take a back seat.

Somewhere along the way, one of the convoy cars had tyre issues. Then it was a fan belt issue. We ended up stopping near a police station, chilling under a tree. Suddenly, a monkey appeared. Yes, a real monkey. A local boy had it on a leash. Maxy, true to his adventurous spirit, climbed up a tree branch like Tarzan’s cousin.

Once the car was fixed, we hopped back on the road. Hercule kept us entertained with dance moves. Even Maxy served some early-morning choreography.

Religious Debates and Fuel Drama

An interesting argument broke out  the type I usually avoid but this one was worth it. It was deep, thought-provoking, and respectful: religion and personal beliefs. Let’s save the juicy details for another day 😉

Then came another plot twist – we ran out of fuel. How? Nobody knows. With no station in sight, one of us took a bike to fetch some. We eventually filled up, and everyone used the opportunity to pee, stretch, and stock up on snacks.

By this point, we had been on the road for 7 hours. At the fuel station, Mr. Solomon took photos, I had a lovely chat with Mrs. Vivian (my fine wine), Miss Mary, and our media guy, Mr. Bala.

My seat buddy? Waka Waka Diamond  Abuja’s finest nail artist, a gentle introvert with the sweetest soul. Chef Titi also pampered me in the bus – she gave me coffee and toasted bread. I shared my cookies and biscuits in return. It was giving “road trip communion.”

Obudu at Last! Or Not Quite...

We finally rolled into Obudu town, topped up fuel again, got essentials, and filled cooking gas. I forgot my bathing soap, so I picked that up too. My two sweet girls got food, and even though I didn’t feel like eating, I ended up sharing their meal. Teamwork, right?

Suddenly, the bus turned into worship service on wheels! My crew broke into spontaneous worship – even the ones who claim not to go to church were singing along. My guy was even leading. Goosebumps, y’all. Such an unforgettable moment.

6,000 Feet Above Sea Level, Please and Thanks

We finally reached the mountain gate. Epa asked that we pray for a safe climb – 6,000 feet above sea level isn’t beans. Security checks were done, and the ascent began. It took about 35 minutes. When we reached the top around 8:45 p.m., we settled into our cabins. Others were at Donald Duke Lodge.

Then came the hot water saga. Apparently, there's NEPA with a schedule on this mountain. But no wahala  I still managed a hot bath.

That night, we sat down for a heart-warming and slightly chaotic conversation about love. But that? That's a blog post on its own.

1. Gratitude for Moori’s Love and Intuition

I deeply appreciated how your emotional pet, Moori, woke you up at 3 a.m. with cuddles and play almost as if she sensed I was traveling. Her affection set a loving tone for my day.

2. Gratitude for Kind Strangers and Helpfulness

Despite the transportation mix-up, I am grateful for the Uber driver who kindly agreed to drive into my street when the bike didn’t show up and even though there were delays, I made it to the muster point on time.

3. Gratitude for Epa’s Leadership and Kindness

I acknowledged and appreciated Epa, who went out of his way to ensure everyone was comfortable during the road trip. His fatherly leadership made the trip extra special.

4. Gratitude for Religious Tolerance and Supportive Friends

I am  the only Muslim lady on the trip and felt thankful for your companions who patiently waited for me to observe my Eid prayer, showing respect and tolerance.

5. Gratitude for Shared Laughter and Joyful Companionship

This  trip was filled with jokes, banter, dancing, and heartfelt moments like group worship reminding me how laughter, fun, and fellowship make life’s journey richer.

6. Gratitude for the Beauty of Obudu and a Safe Journey

From nature sights to overcoming travel hiccups (like the car breakdown and fuel issues), I felt thankful for arriving safely at the mountain resort and for the collective prayer offered before ascending.

P.S. I'm already missing Moori. Please tell her to wait for me.

From me to you, peace and love live from Obudu Cattle Ranch.