Niger Delta

Picturesque islands

As in a children’s storybook

Radiant rivers, pristine landscape

Soothing white beaches, swamps and seas

Play good hosts to boats rowed carefree

Whilst the giant, ageless trees

And price birds and beasts

Merrily chirp away

Witnesses of Nature’s sublime venture

Verdant plantain plantations

Lush mangroves and vegetation

Tangible unadulterated air

A vista like no other

No hurtful animals marauding

No head-hunters prowling

No angry, greedy seas

No devouring creatures within

Schools of fishes, periwinkles, crabs

Of sundry shapes, sizes and colours

Ready for Nature’s call

Pure serenity abound

Such inconceivable quietude

Peace reigns supreme

Pure balm to the soul

A paradise on earth

Alas, strangers have stripped you,

Oil! Oil everywhere!

Faith Brown