The South East representative at the North East Development Commission, Sam Ifeanyichukwu Onuigbo, has formally declared his intention to contest the Abia Central Senatorial seat in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 National Assembly elections.
Onuigbo made the declaration on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Odoziobodo Hills, Obuohia Obi Ibere, Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, where he addressed party faithful and supporters, emphasizing the need to “invest experience in Renewed Hope.”
Addressing the gathering, Onuigbo said his ambition was driven by a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to serve the people of Abia Central. He noted that he had consulted widely with family, friends, and political associates before arriving at the decision, adding that the meeting with party leaders was part of efforts to build unity and shared understanding within the APC.
He traced his passion for service to his early life experiences, noting that his philosophy of leadership is rooted in the principle of “service to humanity,” as reflected in his Odoziobodo initiative.
According to him, his nearly 18 years of meritorious service at the United States Consulate in Lagos laid the foundation for his development vision and leadership journey.
Recounting his humble beginnings, Onuigbo described how he grew up around Odoziobodo Hills, trekking long distances to school and engaging in rural activities, experiences he said shaped his resilience and commitment to improving the lives of others. These experiences, he explained, inspired him to facilitate the construction of classroom blocks at his alma mater, Community Primary School Obuohia Obi Ibere, through advocacy with the U.S. Consulate.
He further revealed that he attracted a secondary school, Ambassador’s College, to his community to ease the burden of long-distance trekking for students, noting that the institution remains a legacy project.
Onuigbo highlighted his professional career, stating that his years at the U.S. Consulate helped him develop expertise in public policy, diplomacy, and governance. He said these skills were instrumental during his service as Commissioner for Lands and Survey (2011–2012) and Commissioner for Finance (2012–2013) in Abia State, as well as his role as Special Adviser on Public Affairs to the Speaker of the House of Representatives during the 6th National Assembly.
He added that he later represented Ikwuano/Umuahia North and Umuahia South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives for two consecutive terms between 2015 and 2023, where he sponsored key legislation, including a landmark sustainability law that gained both national and international recognition.
Speaking further, Onuigbo recalled his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in 2020, describing the move as a demonstration of political foresight and commitment to progressive ideals. He maintained that his aspiration is anchored on integrity, humility, and diligence, assuring constituents that he would deliver effective, accessible, and responsive representation if elected.
He listed several projects facilitated during his time in the House of Representatives, including road rehabilitation works on the Umuahia–Ikwuano–Ikot Ekpene road, erosion control projects in parts of Abia Central, electrification projects, and the facilitation of a Federal Secretariat in Abia State.
He also cited his role in restoring delisted management science programmes at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.
The aspirant stressed that his bid for the Senate is not for personal gain but to provide quality representation and contribute to national development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He urged voters to support candidates with proven track records, noting that only credible and experienced individuals should represent the state at the National Assembly.
Onuigbo also appreciated APC leaders and members in Abia Central for their support in the 2023 elections, stating that it gives him the confidence to seek their mandate again in 2027. He assured that if elected, he would ensure inclusive representation through regular consultations across wards and local governments.
In his remarks, the Abia State APC Chairman, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu, said the party would adopt a consensus approach in selecting candidates for the 2027 elections. He commended party members for their loyalty and described Abia as a strong prospect for the APC.
Chukwu called on members to support Onuigbo’s ambition and rally behind the party, while criticizing the administration of Governor Alex Otti, alleging poor management of state resources and exclusion of key supporters from governance.
He further urged APC members in Ikwuano and across Abia Central to remain united, stating that the zone has credible aspirants capable of winning the senatorial seat.
In goodwill messages, stakeholders from across Abia Central praised Onuigbo’s leadership qualities and past performance. Sir Gabriel Onyendilefu from Isialangwa South described him as dependable and hardworking, recalling his contributions during his tenure in the Ministry of Finance.
From Umuahia South, Tony Ifeanacho said Onuigbo’s declaration reflects his commitment to the development of the zone, while Hon. Okezie Ogbonna from Umuahia North expressed confidence in his ability to secure victory.
Former Transition Committee Chairman of Ikwuano LGA, Williams Ukatu, appealed to other local governments in the district to support Onuigbo, assuring that he would deliver on his promises.
Also speaking, Professor Jonny Ihendilehu of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, commended Onuigbo for facilitating the restoration of eight delisted academic programmes, describing his intervention as timely and impactful.
Youth and women groups also pledged support for the aspirant. Dr Chinedu Eze, representing Abia progressive youths, said young people would stand by him, while Mrs Odochi Odo and Mrs Love Onyebuchi assured him of women’s backing.
Other speakers, including Comrade Eme Orji and Chief Adindu Ichie, urged party members to remain united and support credible candidates, emphasizing the need to sustain grassroots mobilization ahead of the 2027 elections.
