Leadership That Resonates: The Impact of Senator Agom Jarigbe’s Town Hall Meetings BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA 

I have been closely following the town hall meetings convened by Senator Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. These gatherings serve as a platform for his constituents to stay informed about his activities since his inauguration in 2023. What has struck me most is the overwhelming turnout of enthusiastic constituents who thronged the various town halls in large numbers—a genuine demonstration of the love and support they have for their Senator. Unlike the usual political rallies where crowds are sometimes bought or hired, these attendees are genuinely eager to connect with a leader who has established a strong rapport with them and who has been delivering effectively.

I must admit, I am green with envy. How I wish Senator Jarigbe were in my party! Unfortunately, the senators from my party in Cross River State, through hubris and arrogance, have failed to build any real connection with their constituents. They lack the ability to engage the people meaningfully, let alone organize such impactful town hall meetings. This is a stark contrast to Senator Jarigbe’s approach. His actions reaffirm the fundamental principle that true leadership cannot be faked—one cannot give what one does not possess. Leadership is a natural gift, and pseudo-leaders, lacking the charisma and empathy required, will always struggle to resonate with the people.

However, there is one aspect of Senator Jarigbe’s town hall meetings that does not sit well with me—his ability to use his electrifying charm to attract notable figures to his party, including my good friend and fellow alumnus, Professor Zana Akpagu. While I am disappointed by this political maneuvering, I must admit that it speaks volumes about Senator Jarigbe’s influence. His ability to draw competent individuals into his party—one that has been struggling nationally—underscores his status as a crowd-puller and a leader who understands the importance of surrounding himself with strong minds. It is an ability that senators from my party sorely lack.

Ultimately, Senator Agom Jarigbe’s town hall meetings reflect the kind of politics Nigeria needs—leadership built on genuine connections, openness, and the ability to inspire trust among the people. He is setting a standard that others should aspire to, and his approach to governance is one that should not be ignored.
@ Okoi Obono-Obla

Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.