Prominent social entrepreneur and humanitarian, Antonia Agbede-Ally, has officially entered the race for the 2027 general elections by obtaining the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expression of Interest and Nomination forms. She aims to represent the Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwarra Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives.
Agbede-Ally, widely recognized for her impactful community development and humanitarian work in Nigeria's non-profit sector, secured the forms over the weekend. This move signals her commitment to delivering results-driven representation to Northern Cross River State. Her candidacy is expected to bring a strong, development-focused voice to the race, as constituents increasingly demand leadership that prioritizes healthcare, youth empowerment, and sustainable community growth.
Speaking on her intentions, Agbede-Ally stated that she will leverage her extensive experience in community development and humanitarian service to drive legislative impact. Her entry adds to the growing list of APC aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections, setting the stage for a highly competitive contest.
Agbede-Ally is well known for her leadership as the founding Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of HOW Foundation, where she spent over a decade championing social impact initiatives focused on vulnerable populations. In late 2025, she expanded her grassroots development efforts by launching the Agbede Foundation in her hometown of Obudu. The foundation focuses on vocational training, healthcare delivery, and education, targeting underserved communities.
The APC is determined to capture the Cross River North Senate and House of Representatives seats currently held by the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Governor Bassey Otu's re-election bid is seen as crucial to this effort. However, the PDP claims the northern senatorial district as their stronghold, citing their dominance and Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe's position.
Agbede-Ally holds a degree in Business Management and Marketing from Brunel University London. She began her career in sales and marketing in the private sector before transitioning into social development. She hopes to take over from Hon. Peter Akpanke, who defected from the PDP to the ruling APC and currently represents the federal constituency in the Green Chamber.
