Just after dusk yesterday
The news filtered in
That Sadiq Daba had passed away
Never again to hear the birds sing in the morning
Or even the cock crow at dawn.
I first thought it might be another fake news
But alas, I woke up this dawn
To the sound of a cock crow from my neighbour’s
Now the birds are singing
And neighbours will soon say hello
But there will be no Bitrus in the mix.
Now I know truly that Sadiq Daba is gone
After all, some day and with certainty
The cock that crows at dawn
May yet not make it to dusk
And for Uncle Sadiq it is dust to dust.
Now we thank God for Sadiq Daba
Who came, crowed and is gone
Leaving us fond memories
Of one whose presence on the screens
Brought us joy.
(OE, March 4, 2021)
