By Sunny Green Itodo
In the shadow of the Sahara, there is a drum that beats year-round! The melody of this esteemed and revered drum attracts birds of the air to a feast, fish in the water to a celebration, and beasts of the earth to a banquet, uniting brothers for the grand opera of moonlight.
This drum serves as a metaphor for the Honourable member of the House of Representatives representing the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency and Deputy Spokesman of the House, High Chief Philip Agbese (Esq), known as the Okanga Isinabo (Talking Drum) 1 of Agila. He is a man whose philanthropy resonates throughout the year.
In the spirit of Christmas and its tradition of giving, I truly admire Okanga’s distinctive approach to philanthropy, which is not limited to a specific season. The main difference between Okanga and the legendary Santa Claus is that while Santa brings gifts to children only on Christmas, Okanga provides support and gifts to people of all ages throughout the entire year.
In contrast to many Nigerian philanthropists and politicians who fit the Santa Claus stereotype, offering seasonal philanthropy, Okanga stands out as a selfless and constant giver. His name represents not just an identity but also a beacon of hope, kindness, and joy.
Interestingly, philanthropy is a fundamental part of Okanga’s lifestyle rather than simply a political endeavor. Long before he was called to represent his community in the Green Chamber, he had already embraced a lifestyle of giving. I recall many of his acts of kindness even before his political rise. For instance, he gifted a brand-new motorcycle to the long-forgotten Idoma folk singer, Madam Igbe. He provided financial grants to elderly individuals and those less privileged in Enone. He also offered scholarships to hundreds of Enone students and empowered the youth while promoting community service. There are numerous other acts of generosity that I cannot recall at the moment, but his contributions are abundant and noteworthy.
Many people who were unaware of the unique phenomenon known as Okanga initially believed that his generous philanthropic efforts were merely a way to attract public votes. However, to their surprise, his acts of kindness only increased with the new responsibilities and opportunities that accompanied his position in office.
In addition to the unprecedented infrastructure and development projects he is implementing in Enone, the visionary Okanga has actively engaged in numerous humanitarian and human development initiatives. One such project involved training over 100 youths in information and communication technology (ICT), of which I am a grateful beneficiary. The trainees received ICT equipment and stipends to support their learning.
Okanga has empowered thousands of his constituents by providing them with motorcycles, tricycles, grinding machines, and other business equipment within just one year in office. Additionally, hundreds of students have benefited from his scholarship program during this time.
Even during this ‘season of giving,’ Okanga continues to be active. He is quickly becoming Benue South’s leading philanthropist this season. He has started distributing bags of rice, gallons of cooking oil, cartons of seasoning cubes, and various other food items to help alleviate the effects of the current economic hardship on his constituents.
As a consequence of Santa Okanga’s extraordinary philanthropy, “Okanga 4+4” is poised to become the new Christmas song in Enone. There is a widespread consensus urging for the amiable lawmaker to be reelected in 2027 as a gesture of appreciation for his unwavering leadership and sagacity. As the saying goes, one good turn deserves another.
The key lesson from High Chief Philip Agbese’s philosophy is that giving should not be limited to a certain season. It should occur at all times, as hunger and needs do not follow a seasonal pattern. His exemplary lifestyle serves as an inspiration for everyone.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance!
Sunny Green Itodo, a Public Affairs commentator writes from Otukpa, Ogbadibo LGA, Benue State.
