Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate representing Ebonyi North, has firmly rejected assertions that he is contravening a purported zoning arrangement that restricts senators from the district to a single four-year term. He argues that no legal or political basis exists to prevent him from seeking reelection in 2027.
Responding to claims from his opponent, Chief Chikadoli Ojimba of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), who called on him to step down based on an alleged one-term agreement, Nwebonyi described the arrangement as non-binding. He noted that former Governor Sam Egwu, who previously represented Ebonyi North in the Senate, successfully completed two terms. “I am not the first senator from this zone to aim for a second term. Sam Egwu served twice, and by God’s grace, I will also serve a second term,” Nwebonyi stated.
The lawmaker expressed confidence in his reelection bid, citing a strong record of constituency projects and effective representation. He dismissed potential rivals, claiming they lack the experience and competence to challenge him. “Leadership is built on a proven track record of public service, not on the desire to make money. Politics is about sacrifice, not personal enrichment,” he added.
Nwebonyi also voiced optimism about the All Progressives Congress (APC) prospects in 2027, asserting the party’s stronghold in Ebonyi State. He praised President Bola Tinubu for increased federal attention to the South-East, particularly federal road projects in Ebonyi, and reaffirmed support for Governor Francis Nwifuru, whom he described as a unifying leader for the Izzi clan. He dismissed reports of divisions within the Izzi community, emphasizing unity under Nwifuru’s administration. “The era of political fragmentation is over. Our people are committed to progress together,” Nwebonyi concluded.