OKANGA 2027: Why I Fully Support Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese’s Re-election Bid
I am delighted to publicly declare my full support for the re-election of Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese, fondly known as Okanga K’Agila, as Member representing Ado, Ogbadibo, and Okpokwu Federal Constituency in 2027—by the special grace of God.
As a proud son of the Owukpa community in Ogbadibo Local Government Area, I am overjoyed by the inclusion of numerous developmental projects for Owukpa in the 2025 federal budget. These projects, set to commence soon, are a clear demonstration of Hon. Agbese’s commitment to the grassroots. While his two years in office have yielded visible and commendable progress, I objectively rate his performance at 60%—a score that shows both appreciation for his achievements and room for even greater impact.
Having previously contested for the same seat in the 2023 election, I have observed Hon. Agbese’s leadership up close. I must admit that he has surpassed expectations, and I doubt I could have done better in his position. His youthfulness and dynamic approach to governance are a breath of fresh air—an indication that it’s time to entrust leadership to the younger generation.
Respecting the Spirit of Zoning
From 1999 to 2023, our federal constituency has operated an informal zoning arrangement in which each local government takes a turn at the National Assembly for two terms. Ado had its turns in 1999–2003 and 2019–2023; Okpokwu from 2003–2011; and Ogbadibo from 2011–2019. My decision to contest in 2023 was premised on this rotational understanding, arguing that Ado had completed its share—albeit split into two.
It’s worth noting that no local government has ever voluntarily relinquished power after completing its two terms. In fact, attempts by Okpokwu and Ogbadibo to secure a third term in 2011 and 2019, respectively, were defeated through electoral processes. Ado Local Government, despite dividing its tenure, has technically fulfilled its two-term quota.
In 2022, after several high-level stakeholder meetings, leaders across the constituency convened in Okpoga and reached a gentleman’s agreement known as The Okpoga Accord 2022. It was resolved that all three local governments would be free to contest, with the understanding that zoning would recommence from the winner’s local government. That election saw all three LGAs participate under different platforms—PDP (Ogbadibo), Labour (Okpokwu), and APC (Ado). Ado emerged victorious.
Why Agbese Deserves a Second Term
In line with the Okpoga Accord and the principles of fairness, Ado should be allowed to complete a second term. Unless a new consensus emerges that every LGA should now serve only one term—a proposal I find unfeasible—Hon. Agbese’s mandate should be respected and renewed.
Though some individuals have approached me to run against him in 2027, I remain steadfast in my belief that leadership is divinely ordained. As I always say, “A man can receive nothing except it is given to him from above.” My focus now is on supporting Hon. Agbese to finish strong, while I continue to prepare myself for greater responsibilities in the future.
His blueprint is clear. The 2025 budget reflects his inclusive vision, with impactful projects planned across all 35 wards. I pray for his continued success and offer him my full, undivided support as he seeks re-election.
Let’s give the younger generation a fair chance to lead and transform our society for good. I am 100% behind Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese—OKANGA 2027 is a movement whose time has come.
