THE LAST STRAW: Understanding the Breaking Point
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| Apagun |
It is often said, he who undermine the cotton wool to the effect that it cannot amount to a load, simply indicate that such is having just a trimmed piece to be soaked in oil for illumination of his room. In life, we often encounter a myriad of challenges and frustrations. These can range from minor annoyances to significant obstacles that test our resilience. However, there comes a moment for many when a seemingly small issue becomes the proverbial “last straw,” leading to a breakdown or a decisive change. This concept, illustrating the tipping point in various situations, is crucial to understanding human behaviour and societal dynamics.
The Origin of the Phrase
The phrase “the last straw” has its roots in the idea of a proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back. It evokes an image of the cumulative effect of many small burdens, considered to be lightweight, leading to a breaking point. Historically, it has been used to convey how a single, seemingly minor issue can lead to significant consequences when added to accumulated stressors. The Yoruba's conclusion of the matter asserted that a shrimps eater will never be satisfied by a piece while Wisdom cried out through the scripture that: "Three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things says it's not enough: The grave, and the barren womb; the earth that is not filled with water, and the fire that says it's not enough.
Political Perspectives
In personal relationships, the last straw can manifest as the breaking point of patience and tolerance. For example, in a friendship where one party continuously neglects commitments or exhibits self-centered behaviour, a trivial incident—like forgetting a significant date—might provoke an intense emotional reaction. This reaction serves as a catalyst for reevaluation of the relationship’s viability, prompting discussions about boundaries and expectations.
In the political space, the last straw can occur when a contestant, or a political leader feels overburdened with responsibilities, coupled with inadequate recognition or support. A small miscommunication, misconception, misrepresentation or a political miscalculation or disappointment may trigger feelings of frustration, leading the assumed or presumed political genius to reconsider their role and stand within the political party. This notion underscores the importance of fostering a supportive political environment, where individuals feel valued and their contributions recognized.
Societal Implications
The concept of the last straw extends beyond political experiences and infiltrates societal issues. Social movements often arise when nations reach a tipping point, catalyzed by a series of injustices. The recent global focus on social justice movements can be traced back to numerous incidents—each a straw added to a heavy load—culminating in widespread outrage and demand for change. For example, in cases of systemic inequality or police brutality, a single incident often mobilizes communities to rally together, highlighting the profound impact of cumulative frustration. The consequences is best known by the government of the day, as "Sọ̀rọ̀-sókè" within moments birthed "End SARS Movement" which Mr. Peter Obi amongst some notable politicians, human right and social activists benefited largely from and used as a launch pad.
Coping with the Break Point
Recognizing the signs of nearing a breaking point is crucial for maintaining emotional well-being and a political spring board. Getting prepared to take advantage of opportunities that presented itself and making the best use of it sometimes makes a ready man steady in an acrobatic political achievement and pedigree, but when the refiner's fire comes, all rudimentary elements and attachments will be done away with leaving such with the real man under the masquerade. But for some whose presence is no longer essential, it's better to bow out honourably when the ovation is loudest. What you do during your appointed time that brings honour and ovation may likely be the same thing you do to be dishonoured when your time is overdue.
In the last couple of years, we've all witnessed the rise of Julius Abure ni Nigerian political space alongside Mr. Peter Obi, but the last couples of days have been very turbulent for him as he sinks deeper by the day for his overtures, overtime and overbearing influence and grip on the Labour Party, his unabated tight fisted control wall of the party has been bombed by his dumb sycophants surrounding him, having fumbled, the political wall built around him crumbled through aerial missile warplane, while the foot soldiers are taking charge on ground. Severally he has been offered soft landing, but a head that will receive a butt, if placed in an SUV, will definitely stretched the head out of the car at Oshodi or Mushin-Oloosha. Just like Maduro, weeks before his capture, he had been offered asylum in Turkey with his wealth intact and protected, but the head that will eventually eat Vulture for dinner will not accept Turkey in the daytime.
Obi and his New Cross
The issue of politicians switching parties and the challenges facing Nigeria are complex topics. Party switching can be driven by various factors, such as:
- Personal ambition
- Disagreements with party policies or leadership
- Seeking better opportunities or alliances
In the case of Mr. Peter Obi, it is all of the above and some many more that are not visible but feasible. And it should be noted that this is not the first time he will be switching a political platform, leaving such party's licking their wounds. One of the Yoruba proverbs has stated that a woman courted through dancing skills will surely be drawn away while watching a public show.
Regarding the ability of a leader to fix problems, it's true that a leader's track record and experience can impact their effectiveness. However, it's also important to consider the role of systemic issues, institutional challenges, and the need for collective effort in addressing complex problems like those facing Nigeria. A leader is supposed to be a problem solver not the one who runs away in face of danger. Peter Obi as a political leader of Labour Party for more than three years without profering solution to the party's lingering issues has exposed his weakness and vulnerability. Like a general statement in Yorubaland, someone just returned from a warfronts, and claimed to have killed six men in the cause of fighting for his nation, as he was about stepping out, he stepped on six chicks, killing them instantly, he saw some group of people at the village square playing 'Ayo', s kind of African game and defeated six people at a row, the general opinion of the Yoruba's was that if we are not witnesses to the six men he acclaimed to have killed in the warfare, we can bear witnesses to his present exploits.
The present arrangement of using ADC as a political platform for coalition is questionable as it is a subversive subtle merger of opposition political parties, the truth was that ADC was acquired by groups of political stalwarts for the purpose of acquisition of power. This is not the first time we will be having a coalition in Nigerian political arrangement, like in 1999, Chief Olu Falae did not relinquish his membership of Alliance for Democracy before he contested using the platform of All People's Party. With this present arrangement, the identity and ideology of all political parties participating will go into oblivion without categorically stating it's a merger.
Ever since, ADC have been hustling and bustling with activities, the membership of other parties are now being subverted to build another one without any agreement by the party structures and leadership at the highest level just because those who are behind the arrangement knew they do not have a political party they could call their own. Is it not foolhardy, for a political party who has millions of vote in the last general elections to now enter an arrangement using a party in numbers of thousands? Will the foundation of this unholy alliance stand the test of time? Only time could tell. When ACN, nPDP, CPC and faction of APGA came together in 2014 to defeat the ruling PDP, what has Nigerians benefited from the arrangement? More Poverty, and the likes, and in this case most of those who are together today do not have the political pedigree to be entrusted with the Commonwealth of Nigeria.
The last straw serves as a powerful metaphor for understanding human reactions to cumulative stressors. By recognizing the potential for small issues to escalate into significant emotional responses, we can foster healthier relationships, create supportive environments, and promote societal change. Most importantly, understanding this concept empowers us to take proactive measures to prevent reaching our own breaking points, ultimately leading to a more resilient life. The Nigerian political space has been overstretch to the breaking point, which will eventually necessitate the emergence of the newest political leaders we can trust, as the old bunch of politicians are settling age long scores amongst themselves, God will in his infinite mercies appoint unto us a shepherd that will not run away when the predators are on rampage.
Apagun Olaolu Samuel Babatunde
Chairman, Labour Party
Ogun State.
|
| Apagun |
It is often said, he who undermine the cotton wool to the effect that it cannot amount to a load, simply indicate that such is having just a trimmed piece to be soaked in oil for illumination of his room. In life, we often encounter a myriad of challenges and frustrations. These can range from minor annoyances to significant obstacles that test our resilience. However, there comes a moment for many when a seemingly small issue becomes the proverbial “last straw,” leading to a breakdown or a decisive change. This concept, illustrating the tipping point in various situations, is crucial to understanding human behaviour and societal dynamics.
The Origin of the Phrase
The phrase “the last straw” has its roots in the idea of a proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back. It evokes an image of the cumulative effect of many small burdens, considered to be lightweight, leading to a breaking point. Historically, it has been used to convey how a single, seemingly minor issue can lead to significant consequences when added to accumulated stressors. The Yoruba's conclusion of the matter asserted that a shrimps eater will never be satisfied by a piece while Wisdom cried out through the scripture that: "Three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things says it's not enough: The grave, and the barren womb; the earth that is not filled with water, and the fire that says it's not enough.
Political Perspectives
In personal relationships, the last straw can manifest as the breaking point of patience and tolerance. For example, in a friendship where one party continuously neglects commitments or exhibits self-centered behaviour, a trivial incident—like forgetting a significant date—might provoke an intense emotional reaction. This reaction serves as a catalyst for reevaluation of the relationship’s viability, prompting discussions about boundaries and expectations.
In the political space, the last straw can occur when a contestant, or a political leader feels overburdened with responsibilities, coupled with inadequate recognition or support. A small miscommunication, misconception, misrepresentation or a political miscalculation or disappointment may trigger feelings of frustration, leading the assumed or presumed political genius to reconsider their role and stand within the political party. This notion underscores the importance of fostering a supportive political environment, where individuals feel valued and their contributions recognized.
Societal Implications
The concept of the last straw extends beyond political experiences and infiltrates societal issues. Social movements often arise when nations reach a tipping point, catalyzed by a series of injustices. The recent global focus on social justice movements can be traced back to numerous incidents—each a straw added to a heavy load—culminating in widespread outrage and demand for change. For example, in cases of systemic inequality or police brutality, a single incident often mobilizes communities to rally together, highlighting the profound impact of cumulative frustration. The consequences is best known by the government of the day, as "Sọ̀rọ̀-sókè" within moments birthed "End SARS Movement" which Mr. Peter Obi amongst some notable politicians, human right and social activists benefited largely from and used as a launch pad.
Coping with the Break Point
Recognizing the signs of nearing a breaking point is crucial for maintaining emotional well-being and a political spring board. Getting prepared to take advantage of opportunities that presented itself and making the best use of it sometimes makes a ready man steady in an acrobatic political achievement and pedigree, but when the refiner's fire comes, all rudimentary elements and attachments will be done away with leaving such with the real man under the masquerade. But for some whose presence is no longer essential, it's better to bow out honourably when the ovation is loudest. What you do during your appointed time that brings honour and ovation may likely be the same thing you do to be dishonoured when your time is overdue.
In the last couple of years, we've all witnessed the rise of Julius Abure ni Nigerian political space alongside Mr. Peter Obi, but the last couples of days have been very turbulent for him as he sinks deeper by the day for his overtures, overtime and overbearing influence and grip on the Labour Party, his unabated tight fisted control wall of the party has been bombed by his dumb sycophants surrounding him, having fumbled, the political wall built around him crumbled through aerial missile warplane, while the foot soldiers are taking charge on ground. Severally he has been offered soft landing, but a head that will receive a butt, if placed in an SUV, will definitely stretched the head out of the car at Oshodi or Mushin-Oloosha. Just like Maduro, weeks before his capture, he had been offered asylum in Turkey with his wealth intact and protected, but the head that will eventually eat Vulture for dinner will not accept Turkey in the daytime.
Obi and his New Cross
The issue of politicians switching parties and the challenges facing Nigeria are complex topics. Party switching can be driven by various factors, such as:
- Personal ambition
- Disagreements with party policies or leadership
- Seeking better opportunities or alliances
In the case of Mr. Peter Obi, it is all of the above and some many more that are not visible but feasible. And it should be noted that this is not the first time he will be switching a political platform, leaving such party's licking their wounds. One of the Yoruba proverbs has stated that a woman courted through dancing skills will surely be drawn away while watching a public show.
Regarding the ability of a leader to fix problems, it's true that a leader's track record and experience can impact their effectiveness. However, it's also important to consider the role of systemic issues, institutional challenges, and the need for collective effort in addressing complex problems like those facing Nigeria. A leader is supposed to be a problem solver not the one who runs away in face of danger. Peter Obi as a political leader of Labour Party for more than three years without profering solution to the party's lingering issues has exposed his weakness and vulnerability. Like a general statement in Yorubaland, someone just returned from a warfronts, and claimed to have killed six men in the cause of fighting for his nation, as he was about stepping out, he stepped on six chicks, killing them instantly, he saw some group of people at the village square playing 'Ayo', s kind of African game and defeated six people at a row, the general opinion of the Yoruba's was that if we are not witnesses to the six men he acclaimed to have killed in the warfare, we can bear witnesses to his present exploits.
The present arrangement of using ADC as a political platform for coalition is questionable as it is a subversive subtle merger of opposition political parties, the truth was that ADC was acquired by groups of political stalwarts for the purpose of acquisition of power. This is not the first time we will be having a coalition in Nigerian political arrangement, like in 1999, Chief Olu Falae did not relinquish his membership of Alliance for Democracy before he contested using the platform of All People's Party. With this present arrangement, the identity and ideology of all political parties participating will go into oblivion without categorically stating it's a merger.
Ever since, ADC have been hustling and bustling with activities, the membership of other parties are now being subverted to build another one without any agreement by the party structures and leadership at the highest level just because those who are behind the arrangement knew they do not have a political party they could call their own. Is it not foolhardy, for a political party who has millions of vote in the last general elections to now enter an arrangement using a party in numbers of thousands? Will the foundation of this unholy alliance stand the test of time? Only time could tell. When ACN, nPDP, CPC and faction of APGA came together in 2014 to defeat the ruling PDP, what has Nigerians benefited from the arrangement? More Poverty, and the likes, and in this case most of those who are together today do not have the political pedigree to be entrusted with the Commonwealth of Nigeria.
The last straw serves as a powerful metaphor for understanding human reactions to cumulative stressors. By recognizing the potential for small issues to escalate into significant emotional responses, we can foster healthier relationships, create supportive environments, and promote societal change. Most importantly, understanding this concept empowers us to take proactive measures to prevent reaching our own breaking points, ultimately leading to a more resilient life. The Nigerian political space has been overstretch to the breaking point, which will eventually necessitate the emergence of the newest political leaders we can trust, as the old bunch of politicians are settling age long scores amongst themselves, God will in his infinite mercies appoint unto us a shepherd that will not run away when the predators are on rampage.
Apagun Olaolu Samuel Babatunde
Chairman, Labour Party
Ogun State.
