Our Yoruba political dictionary is expanding by the day with various entries into it. Most prominent are Emi lo kan (it’s my turn) and “Jagba” (to snatch something ). Both word were unconsciously added for our daily use.
“Jagba” is a metaphor for fierce snatching which provides an insight into covetous prize to which every man keeps an eye.
“Jagba” doesn’t come by happenstance, it can only be when preparation meets opportunity and you take prompt action.
Hear the famous Seneca, the Roman philosopher, “when opportunity meets preparation and no action is taken, nothing will happen, grab it!
World over, politics is a game played by the smart alecs, in which in Dawwinian terms, “the strongest survives”
The Americans say “being fierce should be a compliment, not an insult”. Remember, in a horse race, the highest prize is won by the strongest. Strongest here implies “well determined” not most trickish or cardsharp.
It’s crystal clear that in today’s Politics, every player has the mind to “Jagba” if you don’t hold it tight.
When next you accuse TKF of Jagba, always ask yourself poignantly, does he sit down coldly in the comfort of his room and snatch the prize, or he fights doggedly and earn it on merit?
With the concept of “Jagba” well understood, no politician will be the first to point accussing finger on the other as “jagba” agent or else, people will ask, why do you allow yourself to be taken unawares and allow others to “jagba” when you are competing for it?
Our history repletes with story of political ” Jagbaism “few instances will suffice here
Late Alao Akala “jagba” from Chief Ayantayo Ayandele of blessed memory who was highly favoured to be the deputy Governor of Oyo state then. In another instance, how GSM emerged as PDP Governorship candidate preparatory to 2019 election in lieu of well prepared Senator Ayo Adeseun is still fresh in our memories. Also, how Olasunkami Tegbe now in PDP lost to Chief Adelabu Adebayo in 2019 primary election also rankles in our memory.
And some people are skulking, saying “Jagba”, when they should rather praise who has paid his price (make spirited efforts) to get the prize .
Even the Holy Books warn us to hold whatever we have tight, lest another man gets our crown.
Expectedly, when everyone sets his gaze on the prize, one outsmarts the other and the winner is euphemically labelled “Jagba”.
Whereas “Jagba” should be a compliment for the successful one, it has turned out to be an abusive word to cast aspersion on them.
If you don’t exercise caution, other parties will always wrench power from you. And shout of “Jagba” will rent the air the next moment. Always be prepared!
Okunola Adekunle writes from Ibadan.
