The member representing Ado, Okpokwu and Ogbadibo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has been confirmed as the Labour Party’s consensus candidate for the 2027 House of Representatives election.

Agbese has been endorsed by members of Labour Party from the three local government areas that make up the federal constituency at a stakeholders meeting attended by thousands of party faithful on Saturday.

The affirmation is coming months after Agbese defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC to the Labour Party in face of the lingering internal crisis rocking the Benue State chapter of the ruling party.

Party officials and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, monitored the exercise.

The Returning Officer said the affirmation process was participated by members across the constituency and results showed that Agbese scored 17,789 votes in Ogbadibo Local Government Area, 17,767 votes in Okpokwu Local Government Area and 17,750 votes in Ado Local Government Area.

More than 53,306 votes were cast by party members and supporters across the three councils in the exercise.

Party leaders said the emergence of both candidates demonstrated unity and resolve to boost the Labour Party’s presence in Benue South.

Speaking shortly after his affirmation, Agbese thanked the party members for the confidence reposed in him and promised to continue to provide effective representation to the people of Ado, Ogbadibo and Okpokwu Federal Constituency.

He assured party supporters of his readiness to deliver the democratic dividends and the interest of the constituency at the National Assembly.

“I am very humbled by the overwhelming show of confidence by members of the Labour Party across Ado, Ogbadibo and Okpokwu.

This affirmation is not just for Philip Agbese; it is a mandate to continue serving our people with dedication, integrity and results.”

The journey to 2027 has started and together we shall build a stronger, more united and more prosperous Enone Federal Constituency .

“Politics is supposed to be about service, not personal ambition. I remain committed to attracting more development projects, creating opportunities for our youths and ensuring that the voice of our people remains strong in the National Assembly.”

Some party stakeholders who spoke at the event expressed confidence in Agbese’s leadership and performance, saying his legislative interventions and constituency projects have endeared him to the people.

They said his confirmation was a demonstration of the massive support he enjoys across the federal constituency and expressed optimism that the Labour Party would win big in the 2027 elections.

Meanwhile, a former Chairman of Ogbadibo Local Government Area, Prince Onuh, had emerged as the consensus candidate of the Labour Party for Benue South Senatorial District for the 2027 general elections.

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In a significant stride toward sustainable development, Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese, the distinguished lawmaker representing Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, has once again demonstrated his commitment to grassroots empowerment with the installation of three 10kva solar mini-grids in strategic locations across Ogbadibo Local Government Area.
Fondly called The Enone Servant and popularly known as Okanga 1 K’Agila, Hon. Agbese’s latest intervention promises to revolutionize access to electricity in rural communities, directly impacting healthcare delivery, education, and social cohesion.
1. Solar Mini-Grid at Nkwo Owukpa Health Center: A Lifeline for Quality Healthcare
For years, the Nkwo Owukpa Health Center grappled with erratic power supply, forcing medical personnel to rely on fuel-powered generators, an expensive and unsustainable alternative. The newly installed solar mini-grid now guarantees uninterrupted electricity, enabling the refrigeration of vaccines, powering critical medical equipment, and enhancing nighttime emergency response.
Dr. Ameh Oche, a visiting physician at the center, lauded the initiative: “This solar project is a game-changer. We can now store medications safely and attend to patients even after sunset. It’s a huge relief for our community.”
2. Solar Mini-Grid at Oladam Community School: Illuminating the Future of Education:
Education in rural Owukpa has long been hampered by inadequate infrastructure, particularly the absence of reliable electricity. The solar mini-grid at Oladam Community School is set to change this narrative by providing consistent power for lighting, digital learning tools, and administrative operations.
One of the teachers at the school, expressed her optimism: “Our students often struggled to study after dark. With this solar power, learning doesn’t have to end when the sun sets. We’re grateful to Hon. Agbese for this transformative project.”
3. Solar Mini-Grid at Ai Odu Community Hall: Energizing Social and Economic Activities
The Ai Odu Community Hall, a vital hub for meetings, ceremonies, and youth programmes, previously faced limitations due to power shortages. With the new solar installation, the hall can now host evening events, fostering greater community engagement and economic activities.
Chief Emmanuel Adah, a community leader, remarked: “This hall is the heart of Ai Odu. Now that we have light, our women can hold meetings at night, our youths can organize skills training, and our cultural events will be more vibrant. Hon. Agbese has truly served his people.”
Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese’s solar mini-grid initiative aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). By prioritizing renewable energy, he is not only addressing immediate power needs but also promoting environmental sustainability.
In his remarks, the lawmaker emphasized his dedication to rural development: “Electricity is a catalyst for progress. These solar projects are just the beginning. We will continue to implement initiatives that uplift our people and pave the way for a brighter future.”
The excitement among residents is palpable, with many calling for the expansion of solar projects to other underserved areas in the constituency. As Owukpa basks in the glow of reliable electricity, the question on everyone’s mind is: What will Okanga 1 K’Agila do next?
For now, the people of Ogbadibo are celebrating a new era of possibilities; powered by the visionary leadership of Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese.

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Chief Hon. Dr. Philip Agbese, fondly called the Okanga of Enone, continues to distinguish himself as a dynamic lawmaker and an exemplary leader whose influence transcends his constituency and Nigeria’s borders. The federal legislator, who represents the good people of Enone Constituency—comprising Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo Local Government Areas of Benue State—has once again brought pride to his people and the nation by taking on a prominent role at the Pan-African Parliament Committee on Health, Labour, and Social Affairs in South Africa.

Dr. Agbese’s emergence as a Nigerian representative on such a crucial continental platform is a testament to his sterling leadership qualities, intellectual depth, and unwavering commitment to the service of humanity. Known for his humility, vision, and compassion, the lawmaker has consistently demonstrated that leadership is not about titles but about making meaningful impact in the lives of the people.

Since his election to the House of Representatives, Chief Agbese has been widely acknowledged as one of the most proactive and people-oriented legislators of his generation. Through numerous empowerment initiatives, legislative interventions, and social welfare projects, he has redefined what true representation means. From supporting education and healthcare to promoting youth empowerment and women inclusion, his record of achievements speaks volumes.

At the Pan-African Parliament, Dr. Agbese is expected to lend his voice to issues affecting millions across the continent — particularly in the areas of healthcare reform, labour relations, and social welfare. His background in law, governance, and human rights advocacy positions him as a valuable asset to the African legislative body, which serves as the voice of the African people in continental policymaking.

As a member of the Committee on Health, Labour, and Social Affairs, Agbese will work closely with other African parliamentarians to push for policies that promote decent work, quality healthcare systems, and improved social protection frameworks across Africa. His participation not only raises Nigeria’s profile within the Pan-African Parliament but also opens avenues for intergovernmental cooperation and exchange of innovative solutions to shared challenges.

Beyond his official responsibilities, Chief Dr. Agbese remains a beacon of hope and an inspiration to young Nigerians who believe in leadership built on integrity and service. His philosophy of leadership as stewardship has earned him widespread admiration from both political colleagues and ordinary citizens.

Indeed, the Okanga 1 of Enone has proven that true representation goes beyond the confines of political boundaries. His active involvement in the Pan-African Parliament symbolizes the growing recognition of Nigeria’s role in shaping the future of Africa.

As his admirers fondly say, “Dr. Philip Agbese is not just representing Enone; he is representing the ideals of responsible leadership, the aspirations of the Nigerian people, and the vision of a united, progressive Africa.”

God bless the indefatigable people’s parliamentarian — the amiable leader, bridge builder, and chief servant of Enone Federal Constituency — Chief Hon. Dr. Philip Agbese (Okanga 1).

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By John Unogwu Oche

In celebration of Easter, Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese, Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, has launched a widespread rice distribution initiative for women across the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency (commonly referred to as Enone) in Benue State. This gesture of goodwill aims to bring relief and festive cheer to thousands of households amid ongoing security and economic challenges.

Easter Rice Initiative for Enone Constituency

Easter, a season that symbolizes sacrifice, renewal, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is often marked by acts of charity and kindness. In keeping with the spirit of the season, Hon. Agbese organized the rice distribution program to support families, particularly women, during this sacred time.

Initially planned to take place in Otukpo, the distribution exercise was relocated due to growing security concerns in Benue South. As a safety precaution, Hon. Agbese’s team opted for a decentralized approach, ensuring rice bags are delivered directly to all 35 Council Wards and two additional community divisions—carved from Ado and Ogbadibo Local Government Areas.

Empowering Women Through Community Leadership

To ensure transparency and effective delivery, the distribution is being handled by the Okanga Sisters—a non-partisan women’s group with chapters in all 35 wards of the constituency, plus two additional chapters: Ojigo 1 and Ojigo 2, and a dedicated chapter for the Izzi community in Ado LGA.

Hon. Agbese emphasized the decision to engage women leaders, stating that:

“Women are at the heart of every household. Their commitment to family welfare makes them the most capable hands to ensure equitable distribution of this Easter support.”

This new model aims to avoid past bottlenecks where such interventions often benefited only a limited number of people.

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A Message of Hope and Unity

In his Easter message to the people of Enone, Hon. Agbese—fondly known as The Enone Servant—extended his warmest wishes, encouraging the community to remain united in faith, even in the face of economic and security adversity.

“This Easter, let us remember the love and sacrifice of Christ. Let us reflect that same love within our communities by supporting one another,” he said.

He further reiterated his commitment to grassroots development and people-centered representation.

Community Response

The rice distribution has been met with widespread appreciation across the constituency. Many beneficiaries have lauded Hon. Agbese for what they describe as a “timely and thoughtful intervention” during a season of reflection and renewal.

As the security situation in Benue remains a concern, this initiative serves not only as a humanitarian gesture but also as a morale booster for communities navigating difficult times.

Hon. Philip Agbese’s Easter rice initiative goes beyond charity—it reinforces his ongoing dedication to grassroots empowerment and community resilience. In a time of uncertainty, acts like these remind constituents of the strength found in unity, faith, and leadership that listens.

Source: [Hon. Cletus Agada’s Facebook Page]

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