During my short trip to Onitsha, Anambra state, I observed that a certain kind of fear exists.

This fear hangs in the air like a fan clipped to the ceiling. Apparently, it seems to have been accommodated as a way of life.

Everywhere I go I was told by people I haven't met except for the first interaction advise me to be careful while in the city.

While I walk I could see gestures from both cyclists, Okada, and commuters urging me to act in a certain manner.

I still did not get it. Discerning the gestures from these people in motion was not easy since I can neither hear them nor pick the information behind the demonstration.

I did not know why these gestures were commonplace until I witnessed a surging cyclist with two occupants intercept a man at Upper New Market road in daylight, shooting. And then snatching his phone off his ear.

Until, I was told a day later, that a Nairabet attendant at Ozomagala road by Onojoboli street was shot and robbed. It later became not-a-false alarm.

Until, I took note of how quick the shops close as dawn descends, and how people rush home before darkness began to shield evil.

Until, I ran to safety, after being intercepted by a bike with two occupants, at Awka road by Okosi road.

I now know, that indeed, Onitsha has returned to the heavy crime period, the Constable Femi of inland town era.