USA Africa Dialogue Series - "Omimi Ejo: An Acrostic": Azikiwe's Elegy for Okotie-Eboh

Farewell, my bosom friend, and rest in peace,
Eager were you to serve the nation's cause,
Sincere and loyal friendship I will miss,
The forward march of freedom will now pause
Under a new order of discipline
Sceding a future from the shifting scene.
 
Of all the tragic deeds on that bleak day,
Killing the portly servant of the state
On flimsy ground, to have their devilish way
Transformed our land into a den of hate,
Instilling prejudice and fear galore
 
Enfeebled by this tragic will of fate,
Be brave, Victoria, for the sun still shines
Over the clouds, to foil evil designs.
His life endures with those of us who wait.
 
 
-Onuiyi Haven, Nsukka,
February 26, 1966