Shall We

Shall we be able to boldly say we tried
Or shall we in shame seek a place to hide
When the children born to us today take us to task
Look down on us with derision and without regard ask

If we gave our best to build our country, nation
Make it a pleasant much desired habitation
A place where the citizens would seek to remain
Not one looked down on with revulsion scorn disdain

If we devoted the time of our youth
To the noble and glorious pursuit
Of forging a union that would indeed last
Not one full of pain from grim memories past

If we chose from amongst us to govern and rule
Men who saw leadership as an instrument a tool
To build for their people a better tomorrow
Not one darkened with affliction and sorrow

If we held to account those that we chose
Whether they were close friends or our foes
Not mindful if we were of one faith or tongue
Boldly reproving them when they did wrong

If we demanded for the needed change
To bring prosperity within the range
Of those engaged in sound honest pursuit
Not walking the path of vain pilferage and loot

If we refused to lend our voice
To the cacophonous din and noise
Of sycophants who choose to sing the praise
Of men despite knowing their evil ways

If we chose to feign blindness look away
When it was required of us to say
The truth that medicine of the soul
Needed to heal make our nation whole

What would be our firm ready reply
Would we look foolishly up to the sky
In regret of what could have been
If we were more mindful and keen

Let us think and reflect on that day
For it surely lies ahead on our way
That is, if we fail to do our part
To steer our nation unto a right path

A path of peace and prosperity
One in which our posterity
Will long enjoy and savor
The good fruit of our labour

Opeyemi Iyekolo