The race for the green chamber gathered momentum recently as prominent social entrepreneur and public official, Antonia Agbede Ally, formally entered the contest for the Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwarra Federal Constituency seat of Cross River State.
According to her, the aim is to further fight for the rights of Nigerian women and ensure that they get what is due to them from the Nigerian system.
Ally said in a statement on Monday, signed by Adebola Bolatito, the Media Secretary, that amid cheers from supporters, she picked up her Expression of Interest and Nomination forms on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to her, the signalling her intent to deliver what she described as “impact-driven representation” to the people of Northern Cross River State.
According to her, we stand together as one voice, a community united, a community clamouring for justice, fairness, and inclusion.
“That call is clear, women must be represented in our constituency.
“We need to acknowledge the people’s voice from the various political Wards, marketplaces, to the schools, from the farms to the offices, our women have carried the weight of progress in our constituency.
“They have nurtured families, built businesses, and led community initiatives. Yet, when decisions are made in the legislative chamber, their voices are missing,” she said.
Ally added that she was a respected figure in Nigeria’s non-profit sector, as she would leverage her years of experience in community development and humanitarian service to drive legislative impact.
“No wonder our political observers said that my entry into politics introduces a strong, development-focused voice into the race, as constituents increasingly demand representation that prioritises healthcare, youth empowerment and sustainable community growth,” she added.
Ally said that her declaration would add to the growing list of aspirants under the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to her, it will set the stage for what is expected to be a keenly contested race in the constituency.
We are widely recognised for our leadership styles, as the founding Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the HOW Foundation.
“We have spent over a decade championing social impact initiatives focused on vulnerable populations,” she noted.
Ally said that in late 2025, she expanded her grassroots development efforts with the launch of the Agbede Foundation in her hometown of Obudu.
According to her, the foundation focuses on vocational training, healthcare delivery and education, targeting underserved communities.
“Though I hold a degree in Business Management and Marketing from Brunel University London, and began my career in sales and marketing in the private sector before transitioning into social development.
