Businessman and philanthropist High Chief Ambrose Egwuonwu KSM (Ochubaradikeohia 2nd) of Awa, says his decision to contest the Orumba North and South Federal Constituency seat in 2027 is rooted in a long-standing commitment to serving his people, not personal ambition. Speaking in an interview, with Our Anchorman, Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, he outlined how years of private-sector support for youth employment, education, and community welfare have shaped his resolve to seek public office. According to him, the motivation is simple: to give back and ensure quality representation for the constituency. Excerpts.
This is not your first time contesting. What is pushing you to run again?
My motivation is service to the people. As a private businessman, I have been touching lives and influencing employment for youths from Orumba North and Orumba South in federal and state establishments. Even without holding public office, I have helped about eight persons secure federal jobs. Service is what drives me.
You run several businesses. How does that shape your view of public service?
I run multiple outlets in the electronics business with about 103 staff. Every month I put food on their tables, and when they send me messages saying “thank you, sir, we have received our salary,” it gives me joy. That experience makes me want to go further and ensure Orumba North and South’s voice is loud in the National Assembly.
What have you done for the people outside government?
During COVID, I sent 2,000 bags of rice to Orumba North and South to alleviate suffering. For 14 years now, every December 24 I share 1,000 bags of rice to my community. Last year in Cross River State, I shared 2,500 bags to Cross Riverians, Hausa, Yoruba, and persons with disabilities. I also give scholarships to brilliant and intelligent youths and support them without expecting anything in return.
Do you make campaign promises?
I don’t make promises out of desperation. I am sure of my next meal, so there is no desperation in this aspiration. My ambition comes from genuine service I have rendered to humanity in my community. I prefer to go straight to the act of service rather than make empty promises.
Why do you believe you won’t fail the people if elected?
The people have tested and trusted me. If I can build houses for the poor, give to the needy, and share thousands of bags of rice without holding office, why would I fail as a lawmaker? I am not a noise maker. I believe in delivering quality and intelligent service to the people.
What do you think of the current representative’s performance?
The good people of Orumba North and South have assessed her and concluded she has not done well. The major complaint is that she doesn’t pick calls even when constituents have critical needs. If there are challenges in Abuja, accessibility should not suffer.
What is your position on the zoning agreement in Orumba North/South?
There is an accord from 2006 signed when Late Dr. Alex Ekwueme was alive. It states that the seat should rotate between Orumba North and Orumba South every four years. The incumbent is from Orumba South, so it is now the turn of Orumba North. Based on that agreement, she is not qualified to run again.
What would be your legislative priorities if elected?
My voice will be loud in the National Assembly. I will sponsor motions and bills, especially to address erosion, which is a major problem in Orumba North and South. I will also ensure federal government presence in areas of infrastructure, youth empowerment, and quality representation.
How will you relate with constituents differently?
Accessibility is key. I know every community in Orumba North and South and their challenges. My advice to constituents is to focus on the ball. They have been praying for quality service and motion-moving representation, and God has answered through my interest to run.
Have you held public office before?
Yes. I served as Senior Special Assistant on Community Lives under Governor Willie Obiano. I also managed my business successfully without borrowing from banks. My electronics company, AC Peterson, is number one in Cross River State and partners with Tarmaku across four states.
What leadership roles do you currently hold?
I am the President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Cross River State chapter. Over one million Igbos found me worthy to lead. During my inauguration, the Governor, Deputy Governor, and National Secretary General of Ohanaeze attended. The state government supported my administration with ₦100 million. In six months, we achieved what had not been done in 20 years.
What recognition have you received for your service?
The Igwes, Presidents-General, and local government of Orumba North and South honored me with the title “Arup One of Orumba.” My alma mater, the University of Calabar, also recognized me as one of 50 outstanding alumni at UNICAL’s 50th anniversary.
What companies do you run?
I am MD of AC Peterson and Sons Limited, AC Sky International Company Limited, and Charity Nigeria Limited.
How will you work with the state government if elected?
We have a working governor in Anambra State from Old Aguata. I will complement his policies by ensuring federal government presence in Orumba North and South, especially on erosion control and other developmental needs.
What is your final message to the people of Orumba North and South?
It is not about noise-making. It’s about who knows the road. I know the road. I have served, I have delivered, and I will do more in public office. My commitment is to ensure Orumba North and South laugh, are happy, and see real service.
