A Call for Justice: Okanga’s Visionary Push for Apa State and Local Governance in Enone

Chief Dr. Philip Agbese, fondly known as Okanga, is leading from the front — with purpose, courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice. His latest advocacy for the creation of Apa State and new local governments in Enone is more than a political initiative. It is a landmark stride towards fairness, inclusion, and meaningful development for the long-marginalized people of Benue South (Zone C).

For far too long, the people of Zone C have remained spectators in a system that was designed to serve them. They have been underrepresented, underdeveloped, and undervalued. But Okanga is determined to change that narrative. With clarity and boldness, he has stepped into the arena to proclaim:

“Our people deserve more, and I will not rest until they get it.”

His support for the creation of Apa State and the proposed local government areas—Avovo, Ari, Ufia (from Ado), Okam and Owukpa (from Ogbadibo), as well as Edumoga Ehaje and Edumoga Itso (from Okpokwu)—speaks volumes of his visionary leadership and unyielding dedication to the people he serves.

This movement is not about merely drawing new boundaries on a map. It is about creating access, ensuring equity, and expanding opportunities. It is about bringing government closer to the people—not just in rhetoric, but in practical, life-changing ways.

Okanga deeply understands the burdens that come when communities must travel long distances to access essential services. He hears the silence of villages whose voices are lost in distant, indifferent bureaucracies. And he knows that true development starts when governance becomes local—when it meets people where they live, work, and hope.

By championing this cause, Okanga is doing more than advocating for structures; he is demanding justice. He is fighting for a future where:

• A child in Owukpa or Edumoga grows up feeling seen, heard, and valued.

• A farmer in Utonkon knows his concerns are not just registered but acted upon.

• An elder in Ari has leaders nearby who can listen, respond, and deliver real solutions.

This is what real representation looks like.
This is what visionary leadership looks like.
This is why Okanga must be commended.

He is not just speaking for his people; he is speaking with them.
He is not just opening doors; he is tearing down the walls of exclusion.
He is not writing history—he is reshaping the future of Zone C with dignity, equity, and hope.

Let us not merely applaud his courage—let us match it with action. Let us echo his call for justice and rally behind this vision of a more inclusive and empowered Benue South.

Because when a leader rises to defend the forgotten,
When he sacrifices comfort to pursue justice,
When he fights for dignity with such relentless conviction—
He is not just representing his people.
He is honouring them.

Chief Dr. Philip Agbese (Okanga) is not seeking applause.
He is demanding justice.
And for that, he deserves our respect, our support, and our full commendation.