ONÍYANGÍ – Avoid any conflict with those who have nothing to lose” :  Banji Alabi Esq

ONÍYANGÍ – Avoid any conflict with those who have nothing to lose” :  Banji Alabi Esq
(Traditional Yorùbá Tale)

MEMORY VERSE – “Avoid any conflict with those who have nothing to lose” – Banji Alabi Esq

This saying finds its roots in a captivating story from Yorùbá folklore.

Long ago, in a time lost to memory, there were two men: one known as ‘Elépo’ for his trade in palm oil, and the other as ‘Oníyangí’ for his sharp sand business.

One day, they crossed paths on a narrow trail known as “Ẹsẹ̀-kò-gbéjì”, where only one person could pass at a time.

Elépo insisted on his right of way, but Oníyangí refused to yield. Their argument drew a crowd of travelers, yet neither would relent. It was said that both men were stubborn from birth; legend has it that they were bathed and given their first water from the same river, a water called ‘kain-kain’.

Unable to resolve the dispute, wise travelers proposed a contest: the winner would claim the path. Both men agreed. They set down their merchandise and faced off.

The battle was fierce, and Elépo emerged victorious, toppling Oníyangí to the ground amidst cheers.

However, as Oníyangí fell, his leg knocked over Elépo’s palm oil, spilling it onto the ground.

Enraged, Elépo retaliated by overturning Oníyangí’s sharp sand, scattering it as well.

Oníyangí, undeterred by his defeat, calmly gathered his merchandise and stepped aside, honoring the agreement.

But Elépo stood frozen, realizing his palm oil was ruined beyond repair.

Though Elépo won the contest, his victory was hollow. He gained the right of way but lost all future trade as his goods were wasted.

Thus, the Yorùbá saying was born: “Epo ni mo rù, kí oníyangí má ba tèmi jẹ́.” — “I’ve spilled palm oil, let Oníyangí not consume me.”

Moral of the story: Engaging in conflict with those who have nothing to lose often leads to Pyrrhic victories.

Always avoid fight : Let them win the argument while you win your honor & return home to your loved ones in one peace

Be like David – Choose your battle — fight ONLY the battle that will propel you into Greatness , into the presidency

“ LESSON*: Be Wise : Never let down your Emotional Intelligence.

AVOID THAT FIGHT – You will succeed

Banji Alabi Esq