The drum beats are on
Luring the youth to the “Suru gedee” dance.
It is only the healthy, strong man
That can cope with the rhythm of “Ekpe anya oku”
“Ekpe anya oku” has a hot and fast tempo
Like the “Atilogu” or “Gboo gboo dance
“Ekpe anya oku” links with the gods and the ancestors
But “Suru gedee” is the dance of the spirits.
On one sunny morning after rain,
The python rolled its body around the “Aboshi” tree
To enjoy the warmth of the morning sun.
Then came the squirrel to the “Aboshi” tree top
Recklessly chuckling and squeaking.
The python saw a hunter approaching,
Then it warned the squirrel to be quiet
In the interest of the squirrel, the python and the “Aboshi” tree
“Aluma Echee Ndu” celebrated in traditional music
Was an only son, strong, courageous and energetic
Under provocation, he ran to the battle field
– – but never came back.
In the song, “Aluma Echee Ndu” was cautioned
To remember that “ogu wu onwu”.
The inferno could be terrific.
From the distance, we can hear the ragging storm.
Those who had witnessed it shrink in consternation
But the blood is hot, the youthful blood.
How can he hear ‘hold on’, when his future is bleak?
How can he hear ‘wait’, when his right is trampled upon?
How can he fold his hands, when he is humiliated?
There are a hundred and a thousand voices crying
But what can one do
when one cries this
and another cries that
and another cries that which is neither this nor that ?
Why must leaders always turn to tyrants?
When will they ever learn?
Why must wars always lead to ruins and regrets?
When will we ever learn?
*Cry the beloved country – – Alan Patton.
© Anuforo Kingsley A. 20-10-20.
