For African Youths

Leaders and not dealers

Youths have learned nothing
About democracy and politics,
But hatred and bitterness
Of opposing political parties
That lack morals of public life.

Youths have not learned to talk.
Their mouths are sealed
And tongues, tied
Like that of ancient slaves
In the sugarcane plantations.

Youths have not learned to act, 
to share what they have in common.
They are in the dealership kitchens
Learning how to cook up profits
With social irresponsibility burners.  

Today’s youths are troubled enough.
They want to become leaders and not dealers
Break free from chains, pains and inertia.
To reshape their collective destiny.

They want to learn from adults
The best practices and morals of life.
Not in the marketplace,
But in the public space.

Folorunsho Moshood