Mami Wata Poem by Saint Chidi

Recite every rhythm of our childhood folklore
Whether myth, fiction, or real-life stories
Mami Wata comes to heart
Once dreadful tale of our village Akọ̀tàn
The deep mysteries of Olokun, feared god of the sea
And the river goodness chanting from the blue

Mami Wata
Every fisherman's delight and nightmare
Her eyes glow like the polished full moon
Hair darkens and falls like the early spring
Skin like a sculptured beauty oil mask
With her golden comb that mirrors wealth
Drawing a burning desire from all seafarers

Net casters are reminded to offer liberation
At dusk, they throw gin and coins into the sea
As Mami Wata sings and the rivers listen
She answers your call but doesn't forget
Her answer is yes, but yours can't be no

A beautiful lover, but her love has a tide
A truce that must never be broken
She gives you what you asked for
But takes from you what you most treasure
Else your wealth that once flowed sinks

At night
When the moon goes thin
No wave, no storm, no crickets
Mami Wata calls
She takes your dry land and makes the river your home
She claims she is in love with you
And there comes your biggest nightmare