Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi

Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi is a Nigerian politician and a member of the Senate representing Ebonyi North Central Senatorial District in Ebonyi State. Elected in 2023, Nwaebonyi is known for his commitment to development projects and advocacy for the people of Ebonyi. He has built a reputation as a grassroots leader with a vision for improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education in his constituency. Below is a comprehensive look into the life, career, and controversies associated with Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi.

Early Life and Education

Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi was born in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, where he spent most of his early years. Known for his active involvement in community activities from a young age, Nwaebonyi displayed leadership qualities that would later influence his career in politics. His education journey began in Ebonyi, where he attended primary and secondary schools before moving on to university.

Although the specific details of his tertiary education are not widely publicized, Nwaebonyi is known to have pursued higher education in political science or public administration, equipping him with knowledge for a future in public service and governance.

Entry into Politics and Early Career

Nwaebonyi’s political career began at the grassroots level, where he engaged in various community-building initiatives and quickly became a trusted voice in his community. His active participation in community affairs and consistent advocacy for local issues earned him the trust of many residents in Ebonyi State, paving the way for his entry into mainstream politics.

Over time, Nwaebonyi aligned himself with the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling party, and became a key figure within the Ebonyi chapter. His commitment to the party’s principles and dedication to public service elevated his status, and he rose through the ranks to secure the APC ticket for the Ebonyi North Central Senatorial District in the 2023 elections.

Political Career and Achievements

In 2023, Nwaebonyi was elected as a senator representing Ebonyi North Central, a role in which he has focused on advocating for the socio-economic development of his constituents. His primary objectives include:

1. Infrastructure Development: Nwaebonyi has been vocal about the need to improve roads, electricity, and water supply within Ebonyi North Central. He has introduced bills and motions aimed at securing federal support for critical infrastructure projects.
2. Healthcare Initiatives: The senator has shown a strong commitment to healthcare, pushing for the establishment and improvement of healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas. He is also an advocate for maternal and child healthcare services, aiming to reduce maternal mortality rates in the region.
3. Education and Youth Empowerment: Nwaebonyi supports policies promoting quality education and vocational training for young people, seeing it as vital to reduce unemployment and uplift the community.
4. Advocacy for Federal Projects: Nwaebonyi has consistently lobbied for federal projects in Ebonyi State, bringing increased attention to the state’s needs and securing funding for several development projects.

Controversies and Scandals

While Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi has gained a positive reputation for his contributions to Ebonyi North Central, his career has not been without its controversies. Below are some notable issues that have emerged during his tenure:

1. Allegations of Electoral Malpractice
   During the 2023 general elections, allegations surfaced accusing Nwaebonyi’s campaign team of engaging in electoral malpractices, including vote-buying and intimidation of opposition voters. These allegations were raised by opposition parties, who claimed that the electoral process in Ebonyi North Central was not entirely free or fair. However, these claims were not substantiated, and the courts dismissed the cases, affirming his election win.
2. Public Funds Mismanagement Accusation
   In mid-2024, a civil society organization accused Senator Nwaebonyi of mismanaging funds allocated for constituency projects. Specifically, the group alleged that some of the projects earmarked for Ebonyi North Central had not been completed, despite funds being disbursed. The senator defended himself by stating that delays were due to logistical challenges and pledged to ensure the completion of all projects. However, the accusations raised questions about accountability and transparency in his handling of public funds.
3. Accusations of Nepotism
   Nwaebonyi faced accusations of nepotism in hiring practices for his senatorial office. According to some reports, he appointed close relatives and friends to several key positions, drawing criticism from constituents who felt these opportunities should have been made open to qualified individuals across the district. In response, Nwaebonyi’s office claimed that all appointments were based on merit and that his relatives and associates were qualified for the positions they held.
4. Internal Party Conflicts
   In the latter part of 2024, rumors emerged of an internal dispute between Nwaebonyi and other APC leaders within Ebonyi State. The conflict reportedly revolved around disagreements on funding allocation and support for upcoming elections. While the senator did not publicly address these claims, sources within the APC hinted that these disagreements could impact his political alliances and influence within the party.

5. Altercation with Oby Ezekwesili

   In March 2025, a dramatic confrontation erupted during a sitting of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions at the National Assembly, where Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District, clashed with Dr. Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili, a respected former Minister of Education and prominent social accountability advocate.

   The Senate Committee was convened to investigate explosive allegations of sexual harassment leveled by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. The hearing was a high-profile affair, attended by civil society leaders, lawyers, and media houses due to the sensitive nature of the allegations and the powerful individuals involved.

   As proceedings commenced, Senator Nwebonyi signaled that he was ready to present his position and claimed that the petitioners were uncoordinated and unprepared, implying a lack of credibility in their submissions. In response, Dr. Ezekwesili, who was present at the hearing as a public observer and women’s rights advocate, sharply interjected, saying:

   “Shut up, Senator! This isn’t your platform to bully women.“

   Her blunt rebuke, though uncharacteristic of her usually composed demeanor, was met with immediate backlash from Senator Nwebonyi. He furiously replied:

   “You are an insult to womanhood. People like you can never be here!“
   This remark sparked visible discomfort in the chamber and drew gasps from some attendees. (Premium Times Nigeria)

   The confrontation quickly dominated national discourse, with video clips of the exchange going viral on platforms such as YouTube and X (formerly Twitter). Many Nigerians were divided over the decorum of both individuals during the exchange, with hashtags like #NwebonyiVsEzekwesili and #ProtectWomenInPolitics trending for days.

   In the immediate aftermath, Senator Nwebonyi doubled down on his position, stating in an interview with Vanguard Newspaper that he had “no regrets whatsoever” for his statement.

   “I was provoked by her unruly behavior. No one, regardless of their past positions, has the right to come into the Senate and insult elected representatives,” he declared.
   He accused Ezekwesili of grandstanding and seeking relevance by disrupting the proceedings. (Vanguard News)

   Conversely, Dr. Ezekwesili defended her outburst, telling Punch Newspapers that her reaction was born out of the constant dismissal of women’s voices in political spaces.

   “I’m pleased the incident happened. It has forced a national conversation on how women are treated, silenced, and disrespected when they demand accountability. Senator Nwebonyi simply revealed the deeply misogynistic mindset many still hold.”
   She emphasized that her presence at the hearing was within her rights as a Nigerian citizen and women’s advocate. (Punch Nigeria)

   Public reactions poured in from civil society organizations, women’s groups, and political commentators.

   • The Nigeria Women Trust Fund (NWTF) called for a formal apology from Senator Nwebonyi, citing “clear gender-based verbal abuse.”

   • Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) described the incident as “a symptom of the entrenched culture of impunity in public office,” urging both parties to de-escalate and prioritize the pursuit of justice for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

   Despite calls for disciplinary action, the Senate leadership remained silent on the altercation, prompting criticism from watchdog groups like SERAP (Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project), who demanded a clear code of conduct be enforced in legislative hearings involving gender-sensitive issues.

   As of late March 2025, the Ethics Committee has yet to release its final report on the sexual harassment allegations, and no formal sanctions have been announced against Senator Nwebonyi. However, the incident remains a defining controversy in his political record, further polarizing opinions on his public conduct and approach to gender politics in Nigeria.

Legacy and Public Image

Despite these controversies, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi has maintained a relatively positive public image, largely due to his developmental projects and advocacy efforts. He remains a prominent figure in Ebonyi politics and is seen by many as a representative who has brought greater visibility and federal attention to the needs of his constituency.

Nwaebonyi’s tenure reflects the complex dynamics of Nigerian politics, where community support, political alliances, and controversies coexist. Whether he continues to build his legacy or faces additional challenges in his political career, Nwaebonyi’s impact on Ebonyi North Central is already noteworthy, and his role in Nigerian politics will continue to evolve as he pursues his vision for his constituents.

Views: 2851