Hon. Philip Agbese has transformed from Benue’s legislative export into the unmistakable ‘Talking Drum’ of the 10th House of Representatives—but his greatest legacy may lie closer to home.
In the annals of Benue State’s representation at the National Assembly, some lawmakers distinguish themselves through legislation, others through constituency projects, while a select few become defining voices on the national stage. Hon. Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese, Member representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, belongs firmly to that rare category.
Popularly known as OKANGA—the Talking Drum—Agbese has emerged as one of the most recognisable figures of the 10th House of Representatives. His role as Deputy Spokesperson has placed him at the epicentre of communicating, explaining, and defending the decisions and activities of the House leadership. Through television appearances, newspaper interviews, and public engagements, he has consistently bridged the communication gap between Parliament and the Nigerian people.
Yet his influence extends beyond national borders. Through engagements with the Pan-African Parliament and other continental platforms, Agbese has projected Nigeria’s legislative voice internationally, representing not merely Benue but the nation’s democratic institutions.
A Representative Close to His People
Despite his national and international commitments, Agbese remains remarkably accessible to his constituents—a quality that distinguishes him in contemporary politics. His representation transcends party affiliation; he presents himself as a representative for all, regardless of political persuasion. Elections may be contested along party lines, but representation, Agbese appears to understand, should never be partisan.
More Than a Talking Drum
While media visibility has made him one of the most recognisable lawmakers from Benue, Agbese’s record extends beyond television appearances. He has been rated as the lawmaker with the highest number of Bills and Motions among Benue representatives in the 10th National Assembly, demonstrating that his public profile is underpinned by substantive legislative engagement.
His constituency advocacy has yielded tangible results, with many constituents—and indeed beneficiaries from other parts of Benue and beyond—securing employment opportunities through his engagements with federal agencies.
From Advocacy to Development
The ultimate test of political representation lies in what constituents can see and feel. On this front, Agbese has attracted interventions across critical sectors: education, healthcare, electricity, access roads, ICT, agriculture, and women and youth empowerment. Development, after all, is measured not by speeches but by classrooms that improve learning, healthcare facilities that serve communities, roads that connect markets, and programmes that empower citizens.
As the 2025 and 2026 federal budgets move into implementation, these interventions are expected to become increasingly visible across Enone. By then, OKANGA may be recognised not merely as the ‘Talking Drum’ of the 10th House, but as a masterpiece of constituency development.
Benue’s Gift to the 10th House
For Benue State, Agbese’s rise is a source of pride. For the Labour Party, he represents a lawmaker whose visibility has given the party a strong parliamentary voice. For Enone, he is a representative whose name has become known far beyond Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo. And for the 10th House, he has become one of the lawmakers most frequently called upon to communicate its position to the public.
In that sense, Benue did not merely send another member to Abuja. Benue exported OKANGA.
The 2027 Question
As the 11th National Assembly approaches, political conversations in Enone will inevitably intensify. But beyond party politics lies a fundamental question: Has Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo received effective representation?
For those who answer yes, the next question is simpler: Why interrupt what is working? Agbese’s supporters point to his role as Deputy Spokesperson, his legislative engagements, his national media presence, his Pan-African participation, his accessibility to constituents, and his advocacy for federal employment and development projects.
Let the Talking Drum Continue
The talking drum is not merely an instrument of entertainment. Traditionally, it communicates, carries messages, announces important events, and ensures that people hear what needs to be heard. That description fits Agbese’s role in the 10th House perfectly.
But beyond the national stage, he has demonstrated that the sound of the drum can travel back home—carrying opportunities, advocacy, and development. That is why Enone, Benue, and the Labour Party have every reason to be proud.
As the 11th Assembly prepares to take shape, the wish of those who believe in Agbese’s representation is clear: Let OKANGA continue to sound. Let the legislative voice continue to speak. Let the advocacy and development continue.
Because Enone does not merely need a name on the list of members of the House. Enone needs a voice that can be heard, a representative who can engage, and a legislator who can turn influence into development.
And in the 10th National Assembly, that voice has been OKANGA—the ‘Talking Drum’ of the House, and arguably the biggest Benue export to the 10th National Assembly.
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Yemi Itodo, a critical PDP stakeholder, writes from Ai-Oodo Ward 1, Ogbadibo LGA of Benue State via itodoyemi@gmail.com.
