By Uchenna Okwundu
War ends when another war begins,
So do terror when another terror knocks.
The cardinal points now show South-East
But elements of North engulf our place.
As kids, we used to look up to fly kinky kites kit,
But today, we run at sound of aircraft in the sky.
Men bow down discussing in low tones,
While women hold loose wrapper in fear.
Bullets tear skin as blood flows like river.
News walk into our midst to announce dead torsos,
As bodies detached and missing vital parts Disappear to unknown terrains.
What happened to once serene Eastern region?
Today, blames pour on uniform and urchins,
As we know not who is culpable of the evil.
We hear guns’ thunderous report.
They clap while singing deadly dirge,
And many souls dance into eternity with pains,
Leaving widows, widowers and orphans unprepared.
Why did South-East turn to North-East?
Who brought upon us this debacle?
In our eyes, terror takes over our joy
As we pray for redemption.
South-East, why is your back bent badly?
What malignant nemesis captured you?
Why is your face painted crimson?
Our leaders deafening silence elicit no response
As we hope for peace to come soon.
