Summary

Chapter 16: The Codex Seraphinianus begins by describing Menka’s acclimation to life in Badagry. Duyole is on hand to help him get his bearings. But the engineer is also rapidly making preparations for his imminent departure for the United Nations in New York. Menka’s presence in Badagry is actually quite a boon to Duyole in this regard, as Menka can be mobilized to help him get his affairs in order and see to certain things while he is away at the UN. To emphasize his gratitude for the fortuitous circumstances, Duyole jestingly says to Menka, “’ “I did have my suspicions, but now I have solid proof. It was I who set fire to Hilltop Mansion, just to get you down in Badagry’” (360).

The bustling urban chaos of Lagos is contrasted with...