Zone Poetica

(TO THE NINE MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL YOUTH SERVICE CORPS; {NYSC}, WHO WERE VICTIMS OF POST- ELECTION VIOLENCE IN SOME PARTS OF NIGERIA, IN 2011. )

FOR NINE AND A HALF

For nine and a half
For less of self, more of country
On a tour of duty
Did they not become?
Signposts for the revival
Of stunted dreams, flailing hopes,
Stillborn aspirations,
In a land begging
For a dire re-awakening.

For nine and a half
Will they not become?
‘Super Citizens’
Models of unflinching patriotism
Holding up National bulwarks
By the strands of their
Beliefs, strengths and fears

For nine and a half
Will they not embark on quests?
In addition, seek conquests
Over enemies, within and without
Pressured by labours of heroes past
Burdened by the sure
Inquisitions from posterity.


For nine and a half
Do they not become?
‘Responsible Schemers’
Plotters and planners
Situating personal dreams and goals
In the maze of
National yearning and expectation

For nine and a half
They may be transformed
To proverbial beasts of burden
Turning canon fodders for critics of the scheme
Receiving restrained accolades
All the while comprehending their place
In the scheme of things?