Ososo Agog As Hon Emmanuel Agbaje Returns Thanks To God

BY VICTOR BUORO – The usually serene Ososo Town, tucked between the hills of Northern part of Edo State, was agog with fun and fanfare on October 12 and 13, 2019, as the people came out in huge numbers to celebrate  Honourable Emmanuel Omoladun Agbaje in grand style with all the trappings of a heroic welcome.

In a carnival-like manner that will for a long time to come be on lips of many, Home boy Agbaje, representing the good people of Akoko Edo II State Constituency, moved political office holders, his associates, businessmen, traditional rulers, youths, and women groups to set the quiet town alive in excitement and grandiose celebrations.

While it was not a traditional chieftaincy coronation event, the presence of highly rated traditional rulers in the Local Government added colour and speaks volume with regards to the support Hon Agbaje enjoys in his constituency. The traditional rulers that graced the occasion include; the Otaru of Igarra, Olososo of Ososo, Olojah of Ojah, Onese of Ekedo, Odafe of Ewan and Odafe of Akuku. They participated in the church Thanks Giving and the reception that follows.  

The remarkable get-together flagged off on Saturday evening at the Ultra-modern 3-Star Filani Hotel, that has become a centre of attraction to tourists in the Local Government and adjourning towns, including Ogori, Okenne, Auchi, parts of Ondo state amongst others. The Filinai Hotel did a great job hosting dignitaries and guests, whose illustrious list had members of the Edo State House of Assembly, businessmen and politicians from Delta and Kogi States as well as Abuja congregating in a bash that left many tongues wagging over its exquisite nature and lavish fun memories. Simply put, the town was practically shutdown.

The next morning, being a Sunday, had all roads leading to the Anglican Church, situated at Udurebho Quarters in Ososo for the main event which was a “Thanksgiving Service” for the Almighty God’s faithfulness and mercies that have seen Hon Agbaje triumphed again and again despite several hurdles created on his path by political opponents.

According to the young and vibrant politician, the ‘Thanksgiving’ is his humble way of returning all glory alone to God Almighty and also appreciating members of his constituency for the success story he has so far recorded in his political journey and most importantly, the judicial victories recorded from the High Court, Court of Appeal up to the Supreme Court that gave the result of his party primary election a stamp of authority. He said the development also confirmed that votes of members of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the good people of Akoko Edo II State Constituency were fully in support of his victory at the poll.

While giving his testimony in Church, Hon Agbaje went down memory lane, recalling that he was really taken aback over the Court processes challenging the overwhelming and unprecedented electoral victory that he recorded back in March 2019. Noting that the Party’s primary election was conducted twice which he clearly won with a wide margin on both occasions. It was on this premise that the lawmaker said the legal tussle was therefore quite regrettable, completely unnecessary and uncalled for. 

He said but for the unrelenting support and strong backing of his supporters and good people that kept giving him the needed courage to keep pulling-on, and considering his passion to diligently serve the people, he almost call it quit from the legal tussle at some point.

According to him; “Considering my humble background as a son of a ‘nobody’ in Nigerian politics, it was a difficult one that having won the party primary, the story unfortunately changed when the results got to Benin as some leaders started asking whose son is Emmanuel Agbaje or who were his political godfather? In all these, though I did not belong to their so-called political class, God was there for me and saw me through. I cannot therefore ignore this unmerited favour from the Almighty God. That is the reason I have come back to return all praises, glory and adoration to my heavenly Father, who stood and spoke for me. I remain eternally grateful to Him and the good people of Akoko Edo II that believe in me. To you all, I say thank you. May the Good Lord reward you.”

“I must however say that in spite of all that happened, I hold no grudge whatsoever against anyone. My opponent that took me to court, remains my brother and I am prepared to work with him. That is why I extended my hands of friendship and fellowship as ever before, to him in the service of our people of Akoko Edo, Edo state and Nigeria.”

Not done, Agbaje also gave thanks to his parents, who he said imbibed in him and his siblings, the spirit of contentment and gratitude to God just as he turned to his colleagues in the Edo State House of Assembly that came in their numbers and thanked them for the camaraderie, trust and unity of purpose. And to the royal fathers, the humble Hon Agbaje with a heart of gold, who is known for his philanthropy and willingness to assist the down trodden, words were just not enough to express his appreciation to them for their continuous blessings, support, words of advice and encouragement. To them he said, they remain his fathers and pillars.

Immediately after the church service, guests drove in a long motorcade to Filani Hotel for the reception held inside its multi-purpose Hall. They were all treated to different cuisines, specially prepared by a Chef that travelled all the way from Benin navigating through Nigerian roads that are presently in a sorry state with the journey of an hour now taking about four or more hours to complete.

In all, the consensus among the guests, visitors and the people alike remained that of a weekend to be long remembered as its wonderful memories linger in the community.

This is wishing Hon. Emmanuel O. Abgabje, many more years of committed and fruitful service to his people. 

Indeed, one can happily say there are better years ahead for you as the good representative of your people. Congratulations!