High Chief Ambrose Egwuonwu KSM (Ochubaradikeohia 2nd of Awa), a businessman and philanthropist seeking to represent Orumba North and South Federal Constituency, under the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the 2027 elections has exclusively spoken to our Chief Correspondent, Nwamulunamma Ogbunka Friday, on his motivation, track record, and legislative priorities.
In this interview, he explains why he believes the constituency needs a change in representation, citing his experience in private enterprise, community support, and advocacy for zoning agreements. Excerpts.
This is your third attempt. What exactly is pushing you to run again?
The motivation is service to the people. As a private businessman, I’ve been doing a lot with my personal resources to touch lives, especially for the youth of Orumba North and South.
Whenever I see opportunities for employment in federal or state establishments, I make it my priority to ensure our people benefit. Even without holding office, I’ve influenced the employment of about eight persons from our constituency.
You’ve mentioned your business. How has that shaped your approach to public service?
I run several outlets in the electronics business with about 103 staff. Every month I put food on their tables. When they send messages saying “Thank you sir, we’ve received our salary,” it gives me joy.
That’s why I believe that as a lawmaker, I can go the extra mile to make Orumba North and South’s voice loud in the National Assembly and attract development to our people.
Can you give examples of your community support outside of employment?
During COVID, I sent 2,000 bags of rice to Orumba North and South to alleviate suffering. For 14 years, every December 24th, I share 1,000 bags of rice to people in my community. Last year in Cross River State, I distributed 2,500 bags to Cross Riverians, Hausa, Yoruba, and persons with disabilities. I see it as giving back to society.
Politicians often make big promises during campaigns. What are your promises to the people?
I don’t need to make promises. I go straight to service. I’m not desperate because I’m sure of my next meal.
My ambition comes from genuine service I’ve been rendering in my community. If you know me, you know I’ve been giving scholarships to intelligent youth and supporting them without expecting anything back.
What will ensure you don’t deviate once in office?
I pleaded with those who endorsed me to pray for me that I don’t fall into the trap of deviating from agreements with the people. Having tested and trusted me, I don’t think I will fail. If I can go all out to build houses for the poor and give to the needy without holding office, why would I fail as a lawmaker?
What’s your assessment of the current representation of Orumba North and South?
The people have assessed our current representative and say she has not done well. One of the main complaints is that she doesn’t pick calls even when constituents have critical needs. I was in a meeting in Nnanga where these issues were raised. If she has challenges in Abuja, what stops her from picking calls at home?
You’ve spoken about a zoning agreement. Can you explain it?
In 2006, Orumba North and South reached an agreement signed under the late Ekume House, when Rt. Hon. Ben Nwankwo was in the House of Representatives. The agreement was that the seat would rotate—four years for Orumba North, then four years for Orumba South. The incumbent is from Orumba South, so it’s now the turn of Orumba North.
Does that mean you believe the current representative shouldn’t run again?
Based on that agreement, she is not qualified to run this election. In 2023, she campaigned on that same zoning principle, and the people of Orumba North voted for her against their own brother. Now, integrity demands she withdraw. Whoever loves Orumba North and South should advise her to step down from this destructive ambition.
If elected, what legislative priorities will you pursue?
Orumba North and South’s voice must be loud in the National Assembly. I will sponsor motions. I know every community in the constituency and their challenges. Erosion is a major problem, and I will push the federal government to come to our rescue. I will also ensure federal presence in areas of infrastructure and quality representation.
How will you work with the state government if elected?
We have a working governor from Old Aguata who has introduced policies helping our constituency. My role will be to complement that by bringing federal government presence and reducing challenges in Orumba North and South. Quality representation is a deal, not a promise.
Have you held public office before?
Yes. I served as Senior Special Assistant on Community Liaison to Governor Obiano, where I did well. Beyond that, I’m a private businessman. My company, AC Peterson, is number one in Cross River State, and our partnership with Tarmaku is the biggest across four states: Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Abia, and Imo—all without being indebted to any bank.
What other leadership roles do you hold?
Because of the confidence people have in me, I’m the President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Cross River State chapter. During my inauguration, the governor, deputy governor, and other functionaries were present. The global Secretary General of Ohanaeze attended, and the state government supported my administration with ₦100 million. In six months, I achieved what people say hadn’t been done in 20 years for Igbos in Cross River.
What awards or recognitions have you received?
The traditional rulers and president generals of Orumba North and South, in conjunction with the local government, honoured me as Arup One of Orumba. My alma mater, the University of Calabar, also honoured me during UNICAL at 50 as one of 50 distinguished alumni out of thousands of graduates.
What message do you have for your constituents ahead of 2027?
My advice is for them to keep their eyes on the ball. What they have been praying for—quality service, motions, representation—God has answered through my interest to run. I know the road, and I will deliver.
Finally, what is your business and leadership philosophy in one line?
It’s not about noise-making. It’s about who knows the road. My companies are AC Peterson and Sons Ltd, AC Sky International Company Ltd, and Charity Nigeria Ltd, and I run them with integrity.