The patter of rain pounding on the roof pierced into my subconscious
making me awake in the early hours
of the day.

From one region to another,
it’s the same deafening pattern in varying degrees.

Apartments are buried in cold fright at nightfall,
putting blankets and heaters
to task round the clock.

Laterite roads are soaked in messy mud,
making motoring a harrowing experience.

Commuters are stranded at bus stations,
passengers trudge through the rough and tumble of muddy patches;

Aviators are held down at airports,
leaving travelers to gulp the air in vain for flights.

Umbrellas, sweaters, raincoats, and boots are a noticeable sight on various roads.

Scenes of thoroughly drenched humans
defying the rain,
gnashing teeth,
shivering, and quivering are all over.

Plants blossom in resounding health
with bright flowers at astonishing speed.

Rivers overflow the brims,
streets, parks, drainages, and culverts
making inroads into houses with frightening scare.

The aged wrestle with might and dread,
serrating moist, helplessly
breathing last in an aura
of uncontrollable discomfiture.

Everywhere, every time, every region,
rain, rain, rain.

By Jimoh Ibrahim