By Akinola J Aladejowo
In a remarkable blend of intellectual depth, spiritual reflection, and political insight, the Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Peace-Building and Conflict Resolution, Rev. Prof. Oke Akokotu, has unveiled a new book titled “The More Agenda With Renewed Hope.”
The publication marks a significant milestone as his 47th contribution to the widely acclaimed Godly Contentment Series, and is dedicated to commemorating the third swearing-in anniversary of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Rev. Prof. Akokotu, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Delta State chapter, and General Overseer of God’s Own Revolutionary Church (GOREC), brings his signature blend of theology, governance, and socio-political commentary into this new work. The 160-page book, divided into twelve compelling chapters, offers a reflective yet forward-looking narrative that aligns the developmental philosophies of both leaders with moral and spiritual underpinnings.
The foreword, carefully crafted by the Executive Chairman of Post Primary Education Board, Delta State, and former Provost of Defunct College of Education, Agbor, now University of Delta UNIDEL, Agbor, Delta State, Prof. E. U. Tibi sets the tone for the book’s intellectual and moral gravitas. Prof. Tibi described the work as a significant addition to contemporary discourse, noting that it adds intellectual capacity and invigorating religiosity to governance, leadership, and fellowship.” He strongly recommended the book to readers seeking deeper insight into leadership shaped by both policy and principle.
Adding further weight to the publication are notable commentaries from respected figures including Taju Isichei, Adekola Yinusa Adekunle, Paul Oweh, Donald Peterson, Jonathan Adudu, and Paxman Abdulsalam Ekpuze. Their perspectives collectively reinforce the book’s relevance across political, religious, and social spheres.
In his remarks, Alhaji Paxman Abdulsalam Ekpuze highlighted the philosophical depth of the work, emphasizing that it serves as a timely reminder that human actions are often driven by two dominant forces—hope and fear. According to him, while hope propels individuals and societies forward, fear can act as a limiting force, a theme that resonates strongly with the leadership narratives explored in the book.
Speaking on the motivation behind the publication, Rev. Prof. Akokotu expressed profound gratitude to all who contributed to the project’s success. He noted that the book was not only written to celebrate the leadership milestones of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori but also to enlighten Nigerians and Deltans on the core policies and developmental agendas shaping governance at both national and state levels.
A key highlight of the book is its detailed exposition of the Renewed Hope Agenda and the MORE Agenda, which form the policy backbone of the current administrations. Through a carefully structured narrative, Akokotu examines Nigeria’s political transition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), as well as Delta State’s own political shift, which he vividly describes as a political tsunami. This analysis provides readers with a contextual understanding of the evolving political landscape.
Adding a cultural dimension, the author employs the symbolic reference of Ukodo—a cherished Urhobo and Isoko delicacy—to describe Governor Oborevwori’s leadership. According to Akokotu, just as Ukodo is indispensable in Southern Delta ceremonies, the governor’s leadership embodies growth, unity, shared responsibility, infrastructural development, and collective prosperity.
Ultimately, “The More Agenda with Renewed Hope” stands as more than just a commemorative publication; it is an intellectual and cultural document that bridges governance, spirituality, and societal progress. The book offers readers a unique opportunity to understand both national and local politics through a lens that is deeply rooted in faith, culture, and visionary leadership.
As Rev. Prof. Akokotu aptly concludes, “this is a must-read for individuals not only in Delta State but across Nigeria, Africa, and the global community—anyone seeking a richer understanding of leadership, policy direction, and the enduring power of hope in shaping a nation’s future”.
