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BY BOLAJI AFOLABI

Back in the days, growing up in the then political capital of the Northern region; Kaduna was communal. Every young child was the “property” of elders, parents in the society as they all play roles in the moral, and physical growth of all of us. One of such was a staff of the defunct National Electric Power Authority, (NEPA) whose real name the writer cannot recall but preferred being addressed as “Okube.” Every evening, we all coalesce in the big outer space of his residence as he treats us to songs, jokes, and music from his small transistor radio. We all looked forward to these, and stories of Joseph, Samuel, Samson, David, Daniel, and a few others. The sit-outs, became permanent fixtures for everyone, not minding our diverse religions. Unlike now, where the elites are deliberately using religion as the basis for political gains, parents, lived harmoniously and encouraged children to participate in such activities as they know there are moral virtues imbued in it.

His teachings, mentoring impacted positively on many of us in several ways. Amid jokes, laughter, and banter, “Uncle Okube” sowed seeds of tolerance, selflessness, empathy, respect for all people, and other moral virtues in us. These noble attributes were added to the numerous character moulding, and attitudinal upbringing ingrained in us by our parents. Among his wise-sayings, one counsel remains evergreen. Decades after, at every discourse, interaction on phone or physical, many of us; “alumni of Uncle Okube school” still recall it. To demonstrate the seriousness of the advisory, there was no “entertainment” that day. With focused comportment, he said, “in life, you must be bold. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind. People may not like what you say but hold on to what you believe.”

From the various comments by people, one can confidently declare that the preceding statements clearly depict the personae and attributes of Solomon Bob, a constitutional lawyer, and politician from Rivers state. Described as a forthright, and brilliant personality who does not approbate and reprobate on issues. He doesn’t dilly-dally around matters but speaks direct from the heart. Known for exhibiting principled and moral standards, he evokes intellect and fecundity at all times. The two-term member for Abua/Obual and Ahoada East federal constituency in Nigeria’s House of Representatives; who by the way prefers being called “Rep” has emerged as one of the cognoscente in parliamentary ethics, ethos, and nuances. His quiet mien, and easy-going demeanor is largely misunderstood by some people. Deflating such categorisation, his friends confessed that beneath the slender and supple outward appearance lies grit and resilience in the pursuit of truth, fairness, equity, and justice.

Solomon Bob, educated at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife; where he emerged as one of the top performers in Law, was called to the Nigeria Bar in 1999. He was in private practice prior to getting into public office a few years later, when he was appointed Special Adviser to Barrister Nyesom Wike; then Rivers state Governor. Just as goldfish have no hiding place, the unique qualities of Bob, which centred on bravery, intelligence, brilliance, and sincerity brought him to state-wide recognition. Through this, and his capacity for hard work, resourcefulness, and responsiveness, he earned the trust, confidence, and support of his principal and other top officials in the government. According to reports, he emerged as one of the few aides that had many briefs on their plates consistently. He was said to be visible, active, and positively engaged that many people within government circles predicted his elevation to higher responsibilities.

Somehow, the postulation became a reality as he was nominated, and elected as the representative of Abua/Obual and Ahoada East federal constituency in the House of Representatives in 2019. Leveraging on his enviable attributes of vision, dynamism, doggedness, and focus he emerged as one of the bright stars in the class of “first termers” in the House. Apparently convinced about his performance, the constituents further invested their electoral franchise in him, in 2023 for a second term. In his position as the Chairman, Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, he has continually shown unrestrained, and unapologetic commitment towards upholding the rule of law, promoting justice, and securing good governance for Nigerians. His pursuit for all-inclusive national development, and proper positioning of the country in global affairs has been unwavering and unequivocal.

Conscious that lawmaking and oversight remains the recognised functions of the legislature, Bob has done very well. In about 6 years in the House, he has moved Motions that touches the fabrics of the nation, advocacy for responsive leadership, and provisions for the general well-being of the people. The Motions include:- Imperatives of federal agencies to ensure fairness in carrying out their responsibilities; Need to rescind a resolution passed mandating the committees on special duties, national planning and economic development, intergovernmental affairs to “look into states spending and utilization of increased allocation from FAAC” by states; Need to conclude investigations on the rising value of unclaimed dividends, unremitted withholding tax, and their attending effects on the Nation’s economy; Need to restrict Members of the House to raising issues, debates, or discussions on matters touching primarily on the interest of their constituents. Indeed, a closer analysis of the title and wisdom behind these motions brings to the fore Bob’s profile as a fearless, and forward-thinking legislator.

Bob has pushed many Bills that seek to improve the process and procedures of governance, and the re-tooling of some government agencies towards improved operationalization, and service delivery. It includes Supreme Court’s Jurisdiction Alteration Bill; Local Government Bill; Amendment preserving the election of an elected executive Bill; Immunity Amendment Bill; Code of Conduct Tribunal Bill; Code of Conduct Tribunal (Upgrading Bill). Aside from these, Bob has been involved in several notable legislative activities. Not one to be found wanting or silent, he has never remained pococurante on matters of national development. His key role in the contentious debates on the 2022 Electoral Act earned him tremendous commendations amongst the leadership and members of the House. He has continued to champion the call for substantive and far-reaching reforms that will return Nigeria to the path of its founding fathers federalist ideals.

On representation, Bob has been very vocal on issues affecting his federal constituency, and Nigerians, by deliberately advocating for improved standard of living, and equitable allocation of government resources. Through ingenious networking and alliances within the House and across MDAs, he has facilitated some projects, programmes, and initiatives to communities within Abua/Obual and Ahoada East. Mr. Patrick Omini Igenewari, a civil servant declared, “Bob has positively showcased us to the country with his quality contributions to debates in the House. I’m told that he commands the respect of his colleagues as a result of this. It is a big plus for the constituency.” A women leader, Mrs. Victoria Engoni believes that, “Oga Bob has tried to reach out to the people. For many of us, he has done well, and we expect him to continue the good work.” Comrade Davidson Ipeghan, believes that “given the present realities in Nigeria, Honourable Bob has done well. Though it is difficult to satisfy everyone but he has covered reasonable mileage.”

Throwing more light on Bob, the Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, Umar Muhktar Zakari affirmed that, “my chairman is a beacon of integrity and probity who is respected for honesty and strong moral principles. His work rate, commitment to equity, fairness, and justice, and dedication to group interest are unparalleled.” Dumnamene Dekor, Chairman, Committee on Host Communities described him as, “a true friend, and brother whose passion for excellence, and commitment to true nationhood is unwavering.” A friend, and former colleague, TeeJay Yusuf, Managing Director, 2511 Limited, said that, “Bob is reliable, straight forward, and committed to friendship and loyalty. You can go to bed with no fears or worries when he gives his word on anything.” Corroborating, Rimamnde Shawulu, MD/CEO, Ndeya TV; a friend and former colleague reiterated that, “amid his intelligence and brilliance, he remains humble. His boldness, courage, and ability to speak his mind whenever a situation demands stands him out.” A senior legislative staff member who pleaded anonymity confessed that, “Hon. Bob remains accessible and open to other opinions in spite of his vast knowledge and experience.”

An American sociologist; whose name does not come to mind immediately emphasised the imperatives of gratitude for everything. He reckons that every landmark, irrespective of size, dimensions should be celebrated by people. In his analysis, when this is done, it attracts positivity to both the celebrant, and those who identify with him. For Rep. Solomon Bob, who one gathered, rarely marks important days, this is wishing you a most befitting birthday. The writer joins his friends, colleagues, associates, staff, and numerous others in celebrating a visionary politician, relentless activist, inimitable lawyer, and conscionable legislator.

* BOLAJI AFOLABI, a Development Communications specialist was with the Office of Public Affairs, The Presidency, Abuja.