The Last Salute Poem by Raimi Babatunde

Why did God take our 21st COAS
on the 21st, in the 21st year
And in the 21st Century? Please tell me, why?
He was fearless, a beacon of hope
But the road ends here for them all
Goodnight General Attahiru and compatriots.

We doubted our doubts
Wallowed in extreme insecurity
We slept and woke like Owls
Until you became COAS
Goodnight General, Goodnight.

Something must kill a man
But Soldiers never die...
They transit to a better beat
And stand with the celestial army
Guarding us from above.

We'll put our pains behind us
We will fold the flag neatly
And deliver the duffel with honours
And to those who transited with you
Your labour shall never be in vain.

When death comes knocking
Even the most powerful must bow
You and others died in active service
What a way to exit with imprints in our books
Imprints written in pens of gold and points of silver.

You all left with amazing goodwills
Nigeria thanks you for your service
Now that you've tendered your last salutes
To all that died in that aircraft
We hereby accept your last salute.
Goodnight.