The Courageous Queen
(for Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan)
By Clement Odia
OH, Courageous Queen, Natasha divine,
Grant me your radiance to illuminate my land’s confine.
Infuse my nation with your beauty’s gentle might,
Like sunrise over savannas, banishing the dark of night.
Bestow upon me your courage, forged in the fire of right,
To confront the demigods who wield oppressive might.
Like a lioness defending her pride, fearless and bold,
May I stand against the tyrants, young and old.
Grant me your eloquence, a gift from the gods above,
To speak truth to power, with a voice that echoes with love.
Like a river flowing effortlessly to the sea,
May my words cascade with conviction, setting the captive free.
Oh, Courageous Queen, lend me your influence, I pray,
To mingle with the mighty, and challenge the status quo’s sway.
Like a thunderstorm awakening the forest, shaking the trees,
May I disturb the complacent, and stir the hearts of the breeze.
Thou Courageous Queen, let me be your feet, swift and true,
To run your errands, carrying your voice, anew.
Like a marathon runner, I’ll pace myself, steady and strong,
Till the world bends to listen, and your message is sung.
Let me be your hand, a messenger of hope and light,
To carry your petition to the United Nations’ hallowed sight.
Like a dove bearing an olive branch, symbolizing peace and rest,
May your voice be heard, and justice be served, at last.
