Igbo for “Ara Agbala” is “madness has caught.”
In particular in Nigeria, the Igbo expression “Ara agbala”—which means “madness has caught”—and its Pidgin version, “madness don catch mad people,” have been circulating online. This phrase emphasizes the idea of nemesis and has a profound significance that cuts through linguistic and cultural barriers.
Basically, the saying “madness don catch mad people” means that individuals who act wickedly and dishonestly will eventually pay for it. The expression implies that these offenders have lost their senses and are now open to their fate. Anyone who chooses to act unethically should take note of this as a warning, as it serves as a reminder that they will be held accountable for their choices.
Nemesis is not a novel idea; rather, it is a long-standing, centuries-old belief in justice and fairness. It maintains that everyone will eventually pay for their decisions, either in this world or the next. The adage “madness don capture mad people” is just one example of how this widely held idea is articulated.
The expression is becoming more common on social media, especially among young people, which is a sign that more people are becoming aware of the importance of justice and accountability. This proverb serves as a reminder that there is always a cost to pay for one’s activities in a society where many people get away with unethical activity.
In conclusion, the adage “madness don capture mad people” is a potent embodiment of the nemesis notion, which has a long history in many different civilizations around the world. It warns those who do wickedness that their deeds would eventually catch up with them. The statement also underscores how crucial responsibility and fairness are to any society.