*LEKKI HEADMASTER CHAPTER 1 SUMMARY* The novel opens with an unusual scene at Stardom Schools’ morning assembly. Mr. Bepo Adewale, the principal, displays strange behavior as he walks to the podium. Usually a confident and lively figure, Bepo seems distraught, avoiding eye contact with students and staff. Despite several attempts, he fails to deliver his speech and eventually breaks down in tears, much to the shock of everyone present. The Vice Principal, Mrs. Grace Apeh, quickly steps in to manage the situation. She instructs staff members to conclude the assembly and leads the principal, along with the school nurse, Mrs. Titi, to his office for assistance. Consolations and questions about his distress fail to yield any explanation as Bepo continues to sob uncontrollably. As the morning progresses, news of the principal’s breakdown spreads. Mrs. Apeh decides to contact the Managing Director (MD), Mrs. Ibidun Gloss, who arrives promptly. The MD reflects on the principal’s years of dedication and wonders about the sudden change in his demeanor. She highlights Bepo’s critical role in the school’s success and expresses concern about the potential impact of his situation on the school’s reputation.Meanwhile, Bepo mutters incoherently, occasionally saying phrases like “Oluwa gba mi o!” (“God, save me!”). Mrs. Gloss and the staff try to get to the root of his distress, but Bepo offers no clear explanation. The MD eventually involves Mr. Wande, a pastor and physics teacher, to counsel the principal. Wande suggests contacting Bepo’s wife, who is living in London. This idea hints at possible marital or emotional troubles as the source of Bepo’s distress. Despite efforts to console him, Bepo remains deeply upset. The MD decides to send him home under the care of the guidance counselor, Mrs. Beke Egbin, emphasizing the need for professional help to address his mental state. The chapter closes with the MD’s determination to maintain the school’s focus on education while handling the situation discreetly to avoid causing alarm among parents and students. This chapter introduces the central character, Mr. Bepo Adewale, and sets the stage for exploring themes of mental health, leadership, and the pressures of running an elite school. It establishes the tone of the novel, balancing humor and seriousness, as well as the dynamics between staff members at Stardom Schools.