Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate and senator representing Ebonyi North, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, has firmly rejected claims that he is breaking an alleged zoning agreement restricting senators from the district to a single four-year term, asserting that no political or constitutional basis exists for him to step aside in the 2027 senatorial election. Speaking to journalists in Abakaliki on Sunday, Nwebonyi dismissed the assertion made by his opponent, Chief Chikadoli Ojimba of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), who had urged him to withdraw from the race citing a supposed one-term arrangement. The senator emphasized that such an agreement is not binding and pointed to the precedent set by former Governor Sam Egwu, who served two terms representing Ebonyi North in the Senate.
Nwebonyi highlighted that Egwu, the first civilian governor of Ebonyi State, was not bound by any informal zoning rule and successfully completed two terms, reinforcing his own right to seek re-election. “I am not the first senator from Ebonyi North to seek a second term. Senator Sam Egwu, the first civilian governor of Ebonyi State, served two terms in the Senate representing Ebonyi North. By the grace of God, I will also serve a second term,” he stated confidently. He further expressed confidence in his chances, citing his proven record of effective representation and impactful constituency projects as key reasons for his strong position in the upcoming election.
The senator also took the opportunity to challenge opposition candidates, urging them to focus on competence and public service rather than personal gain. “Politics is not an avenue for making money. Those coming into politics with such expectations should reconsider. Public service is about sacrifice and service to the people,” he said. He expressed optimism about the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s electoral prospects in 2027, stating that the party remains deeply rooted in Ebonyi State.
Nwebonyi praised President Bola Tinubu for increasing federal attention to the South-East, particularly Ebonyi, citing ongoing federal road projects as evidence of the administration’s commitment to regional development. He also reaffirmed his support for Governor Francis Nwifuru, describing him as a unifying leader who has strengthened cohesion across the state, especially within the Izzi clan. Reacting to reports of alleged divisions among the Izzi people, Nwebonyi dismissed the claims as baseless, insisting that the clan is more united than ever under the governor’s leadership.
He called on political stakeholders to move beyond sectional interests and embrace collective progress. “We are united, focused and committed to the progress of Ebonyi State. The politics of division is behind us, and our people are determined to move forward together,” he concluded. As the 2027 elections approach, Nwebonyi’s stance signals a strong determination to continue his legislative work and deepen his influence in the region.
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