Leave No One Behind (Onye Aghala Nwanne Ya) Poem by Emeka GOC

Leave No One Behind
(Onye Aghala Nwanne Ya)


Remembering yesteryears,
When unity was the beating heart and strength
Of our community's cultural and social network.

When everyday conversations carried mutual blessings,
And the profound desire to belong
Was a genuine longing shared by all.

It was a natural calling: 'Please call, don't fall'
Now a standard hospital safety slogan,
Born from a community with proactive rhythms

Designed to shield its own from pain and injury
Where neighbours stood ready, offering open hands.
Please call. Do not fall.

The Ekwe drums once threw those desperate, distant cries,
While the Ogene the singer chimed through day and night,
Chanting the pulse of our daily growth.

Today, I paced the wards of a massive Western hospital,
Staring at signs urging patients to ring the bedside bell.
A sudden truth struck me:

My people had perfected this safety net long ago,
Weaving it deeply into the very fabric of family.
Please call, do not fall.

In the words of Chief DN Ogaraku;
Ana agboso, ana akpoku, Oso ga eru, Oku ga eru.
While running for safety, do also call out,
While the energy might slow you,
Your call might reach and secure you the needed support.

Leave No One Behind
Onye aghala nwanne ya.
Igbo Kwenu:
Igbo Kwennu
Igbo Kwezuenu