Former Ebonyi lawmaker Maria Ude Nwachi has officially declared her intention to contest for the Ebonyi South Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying her decision was driven by the desire to offer effective and people-focused representation.
Nwachi, popularly known in political and social media circles as “Afikpo Chick,” previously represented Afikpo North-East Constituency in the Ebonyi State House of Assembly from 2015 to 2019 and served as the Minority Leader during her time in the assembly.
She first gained political prominence after winning her seat in 2015 under the platform of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), becoming one of the few female lawmakers in the state at the time.
Over the years, she became known for her outspoken style of politics, grassroots mobilisation and controversial moments in the assembly, including multiple suspensions during her tenure over disagreements linked to protests and conduct-related allegations.
She later defected to the Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN) before aligning with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Nwachi made her senatorial intention known while addressing journalists on Wednesday.
The former Minority Leader explained that she delayed her public declaration because she had been consulting widely with supporters and political stakeholders on the best platform to pursue her ambition.
According to her, the main objective of her senatorial ambition is to make laws and champion policies that would positively impact the lives of people in Ebonyi South Senatorial District.
She said she intends to adopt a community-based approach if elected into the Senate, adding that leadership should be measured by the impact it has on ordinary people.
Nwachi also stated that her ambition is aimed at strengthening representation for the zone and ensuring that the voices of her constituents are properly represented at the national level.
“I possess the competence, credibility and capacity to deliver results,” she reportedly said while seeking the support of people across the district.
The former lawmaker further promised to promote transparency, accountability and unity within the zone if given the opportunity to serve in the National Assembly.