Abakaliki, June 1, 2026 — Deputy Senate Whip, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, has called on the people of Izzi clan in Ebonyi State to reject divisive tendencies and rally behind their leaders in the interest of peace, unity and sustainable development.
Nwebonyi, who represents Ebonyi North Senatorial District, made the appeal while speaking with journalists on Sunday on recent political developments in the district following the emergence of candidates from various political parties ahead of future elections.
According to him, the administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru, an indigene of the clan, has played a significant role in fostering unity among the people and reducing long-standing divisions.
He alleged that the lingering kindred-based rivalry within the clan was being fuelled by external influences, although he maintained that efforts were ongoing to overcome such differences.
“The era of promoting divisions along kindred lines is gradually coming to an end. Our people now understand the need to work together for collective progress,” he said.
The lawmaker expressed confidence that the people of Izzi would remain united in their support for the governor and would not allow old divisions to resurface.
He noted that despite coming from different kindreds, he and Governor Nwifuru had maintained a strong working relationship focused on advancing the interests of both the Izzi people and the wider Ebonyi community.
Nwebonyi described their leadership approach as one rooted in humility, dedication and service, values he said resonate strongly with the people of the area.
Addressing concerns about his decision to seek another term in the Senate under the All Progressives Congress (APC), the senator insisted that there was no political agreement or constitutional provision preventing him from contesting.
He challenged those making such claims to provide evidence of any arrangement restricting a second-term bid.
The senator also pointed to precedents within the district, noting that former Governor and Senator Sam Egwu served two terms representing the zone in the National Assembly.
Looking ahead to the 2027 senatorial election, Nwebonyi expressed confidence in his chances, citing what he described as his record of effective representation and constituency development projects.
He said his tenure had facilitated more than 400 kilometres of federal road projects across the district, including routes linking neighbouring states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The lawmaker further highlighted the construction of concrete roads, scholarship programmes benefiting hundreds of students, and agricultural support initiatives that have reached thousands of farmers.
He added that his role within the Senate leadership had strengthened his ability to attract infrastructure projects and development opportunities to Ebonyi North and the state as a whole, pledging to sustain those efforts if re-elected.