For as long as we can remember, corruption has had its claws dug deep in our nation, and this has affected every area of our lives. From bad governance, to poor service delivery, to misappropriation of funds and embezzlement, we see its costs everywhere.
Crude Oil, our major national resource has become a curse for the Nigerians in producing states. Till date, the Niger Delta region continues to be riddled with oil spills, causing healthcare emergencies in communities with poor medical infrastructure, while simultaneously destroying aquatic life and the means of livelihood for the people that live there. Yet, nothing is being done about any of these issues.
The time is upon us, it’s campaign season. Every four years, greedy men and hungry citizens make an exchange of money and gifts for votes. Votes become currency; intimidation and violence, its companion until the next election. Wash, rinse, repeat!
Monster is a short poem by Vanessa Emeadi about the ills of corruption and the need to continue to speak up to fight against corruption. Take your stand to end this menace today.
HE is filled with greed Stuffing his mouth with the spoils of an unjust war His hands, bloodied from the souls lost on that dirt road Spent tyres against jagged asphalt Wails and screams of lost souls echo… They mean nothing to him HE slow dances with pride Avarice, his sole desire A secret storeroom filled with stolen goods He revels in their splendour His eyes are blind to the oppression of the poor His gifts are hunger and strife How long will cries bounce off his ears, Stuffed deaf with gains from lives stolen May his pockets be filled with mites His lips stretched to his ears From the mouth of babes To the heavens above