By Ojeka Anthony.
In many parts of Nigeria, people become popular by talking loudly or showing off. Many want to be noticed, but there are a few who earn respect quietly through action, kindness, and values they uphold, directly or indirectly, without making noise. One of such people is Mr Linus Obogo.
Among young people both in and out of the city of Calabar, behind the scenes, he is called“The King of Boys”, not because he controls anyone, but because he supports, guides, and stands by them like a big brother. This is the piece I wrote a long time ago in honour of this“king”, and now is the right time to share it, with confidence in the old Roman phrase: “Veni. Vidi. Vici!”
Mr Linus Obogo has made a name for himself as a public servant who creates and contributes values effortlessly to the society, a kind giver who supports families, a youth advocate who offers hope, and someone who believes in peace and progress. What’s most beautiful is how he does all these things, not for attention. Most of his acts of service do not make it to the media, simply because he truly cares.
In his mission to expand his reach and support more people, Mr Linus Obogo has made community development and human capital development a personal commitment, silently. He has helped individuals, groups, and rural communities in ways that truly matter. One of the most touching examples is his uncommon interest in handling the activities of the other staff in the office. He has supported young people to chase their dreams, not only to grow in the office but also to honour the legacy of the position one finds him or her self.
His goal remains simple: to lift people up and help the State grow clandestinely.
Mr Linus Obogo believes strongly in the power of young people to shape a better Cross River State. That is why oftentimes, he continues to support youth programmes and promote peace wherever he can. He currently serves as Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser to Governor of Cross River State. In this role, he brings young people from different tribes, religions, and backgrounds together to talk, learn from each other in the office, and build peaceful relationships and above all contribute tremendously to the growth and development of the state.
He believes that many problems in a society can be solved through dialogue, by listening, understanding, and speaking calmly. He has helped to resolve tensions in several offices in the Cross River State Government house, especially where misunderstanding could lead to violence. For him, peacebuilding is not just about talking, it is something he lives out through both words and actions.
People who know Linus Obogo describe him as humble, calm, and focused. He is not someone who talks loudly or tries to be everywhere. He believes people should serve quietly, because, in his words, “why should everyone be talking when there is still so much to be done?”
Whether it’s helping a young person find their way, or supporting a project that will help an entire State, Obogo does it with sincerity and respect.
As a boy, I can say this confidently: Obogo listens more than he speaks. He takes time to understand problems and thinks carefully before acting. He keeps his word, avoids empty promises, and treats everyone; from government officials to local artisans, with dignity. These simple but rare qualities have earned him deep respect from office, fellow politicians, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens.
To many Cross Riverians, Linus Obogo is a quiet force, someone who is steady, honest, and people-focused. He often tells anyone who cares to listen:
“You do not need to hold a public office to make a difference. But if it comes, it gives you a better chance to do great things. All you need is the heart to serve and the courage to stay true to your values.”
The future may still hold more for Linus Obogo, but one even now, his work is already defining lives and building futures. We say, “well done sir!”
He came.
He saw.
He didn’t shout.
He is simply providing, one solution at a time.
Veni. Vidi. Vici, but without noise.
