I HAVE 2 PASSPORTS

Born in Nigeria, adopted by Britain, I have fond memories growing up in Nigeria.
It was glorious until my teenage years When the country lost its way and hell broke loose.

I watched a glorious nation plundered into oblivion.
At eighteen, I wanted to go anywhere outside of Nigeria.
I watched as mediocre rose and intelligent people were unemployed
I watched as hard working people went hungry.
The only people that thrived in my world were connected to someone in power.
I graduated and my father retired. Life got worse.
I hustled the length and breadth of Nigeria.
I made lots of money but could not keep it because of inhospitable surroundings.
I was getting ready to join the rot when a miracle happened.
My love suggested we move to Britain.
By this stage I was sceptical considering my age and experiences
But more by the tales of people doing menial jobs to stay alive.
I finally agreed and came to this other land.
In a short time my talents were spotted and developed.
I traveled the world and set roots with people I had nothing in common with.
I was amazed at how quickly I succeeded in a strange land.
I was angry at my homeland and how many lives are being destroyed.
I thought about moving back then a senator reached out to me to buy a house here
Then a company director, then a senior civil servant, then a senior pastor.
All my friends I left back home agitating to send their kids to school here
Many that have risen come here frequently on holiday
Many of my friends as we grow older come here on medical check ups
I was conflicted, should I go back or stay here?
I took many investment opportunities back but was frustrated by corrupt officials.
I was almost giving up, then Buhari contested on the right party platform.
I went back and motivated support for him.
I believed in him as a military ruler and was going to trust him as a politician.
I was looking forward to his tenure and hoping to go back to a saner Nigeria.
I was making plans to come back home
Then the president fell ill and was brought here
Like I said, I have two passports.

Matthew A Daniel
2017