Living In Death Poem by Tobi Adebowale

In their veins
flowed the patriotic
blood of ancestral spirits
that laced their hearts
with pain
for their nation’s gain.

In harm’s way
they chose to stay
giving expression
to many’s muted speeches
against political oppression
that daily threaten
their nation’s well being.

Soles ached under feet
minds faced the heat
fists waved in agitation
defying frustration
and on history’s page
blood etched their rage.

In jail
thinking brains
graced by batons
chose not to wail
but envision pain’s gains
rejected compromise
and chose sacrifice.

They embraced the earth
with love in their hearts
even for the piercing bullets
gifts from bloody berets.

To MKO and to Bhutto
To Giwa and to Saro Wiwa
To Kudirat and to Luther
Even to others
Accept this a tribute
You live in death
As ever lives the truth