The Journey Of A Gentleman (Dedicated To Goodluck Jonathan) Poem by EZEKIEL HARUNA DANBAKI

The journey of a gentleman-
When it begin and end at the beginning
It only ends to begin again
When the sun dive into the west-gate of Aso Rock
Darkness hurries to wear the crown
Suddenly the sun rise from the east to give vision to the country whole

Jonathan
Yours was not war of swords or a muscle might display
But of gentleness so rich and rare
You chosed not to fight even when you still have arrows flaming
You mopped your wounded foes with flags of truce and brotherliness
You spewed few words embalmed in plethora of foresight

Jonathan
Despite the fussilades of fiery sparks hurled at you from the bivouac at sambisa
Your faith did not wane
Through the missiles of clueless criticisms and oppositions - you guided you pledges to fulfilment
Your lips were sealed - yet you spoke
Your limbs fettered - still you led
Yours was not power show but thoughtfulness

Jonathan
I dare not sing you a dirge
'no ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian'? Wow! you are a hero on a greater duty
The 'backward never forward ever' journey you set out with Yar'adua is in circle - it ends to begin again
Many mothers saw your luck and have it for their babes' baptistery


You conceded defeat with such beauteous smiles
You did not as others clench fists of hostility, but opened them to allow handshakes of friendship to survive - Buhari felt the vibes race down his spine when he shook you
And your smiles - i shall teach them to my children
Just as Abraham Lincoln's famous letter to his son's teacher read 'teach my son to smile even when he is angry'
You lost the race
But got our hearts locked up in your briefcase!