OPINION 2027: Hon. Alex Egbona. The All Weather Brand

By Uduak Iniodu 

In a political climate where promises are often louder than performance, the people of Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency of Cross River State have found in Hon. Alex Egbona a rare constant. He is not a fair weather politician who appears only when the drums of elections begin to sound. He has proven himself as an all weather brand, steady in service, visible in impact and committed to the welfare of his people in both calm and difficult times.

Representation is not about occupying a seat in Abuja. It is about translating that privilege into tangible value for the people back home. On this score, Hon. Egbona has built a record that speaks with clarity and conviction. From solar electrification projects in Imabana, Agoi, Mkpani and Ugep to water projects across Ekori, Anong and Ugep, he has touched basic needs that define daily living. These are not abstract achievements. They are real interventions that light homes, provide clean water and restore dignity.

At a time when the economic realities have been harsh on ordinary Nigerians, his direct empowerment initiatives have provided relief and hope. Hundreds of women received financial support to sustain their families and boost agricultural activities. Youths and entrepreneurs were not left behind as many benefitted from substantial grants to build businesses and create livelihoods. His mega empowerment programmes have cut across thousands, providing motorcycles, tricycles, sewing machines, grinding machines and starter packs that translates into sustainable daily income.

Beyond empowerment, Hon. Egbona has demonstrated compassion in moments of crisis. When floods displaced families and destroyed homes in the Constituency, he facilitated the intervention of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and ensured that victims received food items, shelter materials and support to rebuild their lives. In Communities affected by conflict, he did not look away. He brought the Federal attention to their plight and pushed for relief and reconstruction.

His commitment to infrastructure and development is equally evident. From facilitating the completion of erosion control projects in Ugep to pushing for the Itigidi River embankment, he has shown that development must be both strategic and responsive. His role in advancing the Mkpani- Agoi Ibami road project and drawing attention to the rehabilitation of key roads underscores his understanding that economic growth is tied to connectivity.

Education and human capital development have also benefitted from his representation. He has supported schools with materials, constructed classroom blocks and provided assistance to students in need. The establishment of a Federal Polytechnic in Ugep which he spearheaded in collaboration with some prominent citizens of the Federal Constituency stands as a landmark achievement that will serve generations yet unborn. It is a testament to what focused and purposeful representation can accomplish.

However, among all his legislative efforts, one stands tall as a defining legacy. The Federal Medical Centre Itigidi Bill. This is not just another Bill. It is a lifeline. It is a promise of accessible and quality healthcare for the people of Abi/ Yakurr Federal Constituency and the entire Cross River State. That this Bill has successfully passed through the House of Representatives and has been concurred by the Senate speaks volumes about his legislative competence, influence and persistence. It now awaits the assent of the President and when signed into law, it will mark a turning point in healthcare delivery in the Constituency and the State.

The significance of this cannot be overstated. For years, families have travelled long distances in search of medical care. Lives have been lost in transit. The establishment of a Federal Medical Centre in Itigidi will change that narrative. It will save lives, create jobs, attract Medical Professionals and stimulate the local economy. It is the kind of project that defines true representation because it addresses the most fundamental human need which is the right to life and health.

On the floor of the Green Chamber, Hon. Egbona has not been a passive observer. With over eleven Bills and numerous Motions, he has contributed meaningfully to national discourse and policy making. His legislative footprint covers critical sectors including health, agriculture, transportation, security and institutional reforms. This is a Lawmaker who understands both the local needs of his Constituency and the broader demands of national development.

Given this track record, it is not surprising that voices across the State are rising in unison with a simple message that performance should be rewarded. Many Stakeholders believe that Hon. Egbona has earned the rare privilege of continuity without the distractions of a primary contest. They argue that the All Progressives Congress (APC) should consider granting him a consensus ticket for the 2027 elections.

This is not a call rooted in sentiment alone. It is anchored on logic and precedent. The immediate past representative from Yakurr Local Government Area enjoyed three consecutive terms in office. That opportunity allowed for continuity, consolidation and deeper impact. By the same measure, it is only fair and reasonable that Hon. Egbona who hails from Abi Local Government Area should be given the same platform to build on his achievements and complete ongoing initiatives.

Leadership requires the courage to recognize and reward performance. Governor Bassey Otu has consistently shown a disposition towards excellence and results driven governance. Supporting a consensus arrangement for Hon. Egbona would not only affirm that commitment but also send a strong message that hard work and delivery are valued in Cross River State.

The truth is simple. Development is a process and not an event. Many of the projects and legislative efforts initiated by Hon. Egbona are still unfolding. The Federal Medical Centre Itigidi is on the brink of becoming a reality.

 Agricultural and industrial initiatives are gaining traction. Youth empowerment programmes are beginning to yield long term benefits. To interrupt this momentum would be to slow down progress.

Hon. Alex Egbona represents more than a political figure. He represents consistency, accessibility and results. He has stood with his people in times of need and has delivered in ways that are visible and impactful. In him, Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency have found a voice that speaks and a hand that works.

As 2027 approaches, the choice before the people and the leadership of the Party is clear. To continue on the path of progress or to start all over again. For a Constituency that has finally found its rhythm in representation, the answer should not be difficult.

Hon. Alex Egbona is not just a candidate for another term. He is an investment in continuity, stability and sustained development. He is truly an all weather brand.

Iniodu is a Random Writer