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

Onye Aghala Nwanne Ya
(Leave No One Behind)


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.
Press and call. Do not fall.

The Ekwe drum once threw those desperate, distant cries,
While the Ogene 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.

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