2027: Onuigbo Joins Abia Central Senatorial Race, Assures Purpose Driven Service
The South East representative on the North East Development Commission, Hon Sam Onuigbo, has declared intention to run for the Abia Central Senatorial seat under 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, Ikwuano Local Government Area, where he addressed party faithful and supporters, stressing the need to invest experience in Renewed Hope.
In his speech, Onuigbo said his ambition is driven by a strong sense of responsibility and a commitment to serve the people of Abia Central. He disclosed that he had undertaken wide consultations with family, friends, and political associates before taking the decision, adding that the engagement with party leaders was aimed at fostering unity and shared understanding within the APC.
He traced his passion for public service to his early life experiences, noting that his leadership philosophy is anchored on “service to humanity,” as reflected in his Odoziobodo initiative.
According to him, his nearly 18 years of meritorious service at the United States Consulate General Lagos provided a strong 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 lives.
He added that these experiences 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.
Onuigbo further revealed that he facilitated the establishment of a secondary school, Ambassador’s College, in his community to reduce the burden of long-distance travel for students, noting that the institution remains one of his legacy projects.
Highlighting his professional trajectory, Onuigbo said his years at the U.S. Consulate equipped him with expertise in public policy, diplomacy, and governance. He noted that these skills proved valuable during his tenure as Commissioner for Lands and Survey (2011–2012) and Commissioner for Finance (2012–2013) in Abia State, as well as his service 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, during which he sponsored key legislation, including a landmark sustainability law that received both national and international recognition.
The former Lawmaker also recalled his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in 2020, describing the move as a demonstration of foresight and commitment to progressive ideals. He emphasized that his aspiration is built on integrity, humility, and diligence, assuring constituents of effective, accessible, and responsive representation if elected.
He listed several projects facilitated during his time in the House of Representatives, including the rehabilitation of the Umuahia–Ikwuano–Ikot Ekpene road, erosion control interventions across parts of Abia Central, electrification projects, and the facilitation of a Federal Secretariat in the state.
Also, Onuigbo highlighted his role in restoring previously delisted management science programmes at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike.
The aspirant stressed that his senatorial bid 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 expressed appreciation to APC leaders and members in Abia Central for their support during the 2023 elections, stating that it has encouraged him 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, disclosed that the party would adopt a consensus approach in selecting candidates for the 2027 elections. He commended members for their loyalty and described Abia as a strong prospect for the APC.
Chukwu called on party members to support Onuigbo’s aspiration and rally behind the party, while criticizing the administration of Governor Alex Otti, alleging poor resource management and the exclusion of key supporters from governance.
He further urged APC members in Ikwuano and across Abia Central to remain united, noting that the zone has credible aspirants capable of securing victory in the senatorial race.
In goodwill messages, stakeholders from across Abia Central commended 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 as Commissioner for Finance.
Tony Ifeanacho from Umuahia South said Onuigbo’s declaration reflects his commitment to the development of the zone, while Hon. Okezie Ogbonna from Umuahia North expressed confidence in his chances of 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 the intervention as timely and impactful.
Youth and women groups also pledged their support. Dr. Chinedu Eze, speaking on behalf of Abia progressive youths, assured that young people would stand by him, while Mrs. Odochi Odo and Mrs. Love Onyebuchi pledged the support of women in the zone.
Other speakers, including Comrade Eme Orji and Chief Adindu Ichie, called for unity among party members and urged support for credible candidates, emphasizing the importance of sustained grassroots mobilization ahead of the 2027 elections.
