The narrator recounts much of Rayo's life. The younger brother, by a year, Rayo is exceptionally intelligent and was promoted to the same class as his brother. Likely, he had too many ideas for a person of any size. The horrors of school are well-described, but diminutive Rayo navigates them better than most. Later, at university, the powers are more indomitable, and the completely corrupt and violent government system which Rayo also attacks easily brushes off his flailing assaults.
Madness plays a role from beginning to end.
He isn't the only one who feels that way. But the Nigerian wrongs aren't easily set right, as Sosoman's tale of wanton violence shows. Rayo is fairly easily broken by the regime when he is arrested. Rayo also tries, unsuccessfully, to commit suicide, but he fails in that escape attempt. But madness itself seems to have taken root, perhaps the only out.