Why does Veronica attempt to poison the Emenikes' baby in the novel, Vengeful Creditor?

Veronica is so anxious to resume her education that she misinterprets Mr. Emenike's suggestion that he might send her to school when the baby is older. Although this is merely small talk offered by Mr. Emenike to Veronica's mother, the girl takes it at face value and becomes impatient when the baby does not grow fast enough to suit her plans. In her eyes, the baby stands between her and an education, and finally, in desperation, she tries to poison the infant.