A resurfaced video from July 2021 has reignited public discourse, showing Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, then serving as the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Capital Territory Development, disposing of a food vendor’s goods in Abakaliki, the state capital.
In the footage, Nwebonyi is seen overturning the vendor’s table and pouring her food into a roadside gutter. The vendor, identified as Mrs. Ukpai, broke down in tears, lamenting the loss of her livelihood and expressing concern for her children’s welfare. She stated that the destroyed food was her sole means of income to support her family.
At the time, Nwebonyi justified his actions by citing the enforcement of regulations against unauthorized street trading. However, the incident drew widespread criticism, with many viewing the act as excessive and lacking empathy.
Now serving as the Senator representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District and holding the position of Deputy Chief Whip in the Nigerian Senate, Nwebonyi’s past actions have come under renewed scrutiny. The video has resurfaced amid recent controversies involving the senator, including a heated exchange with former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, during a Senate committee hearing.
The resurgence of the video has sparked discussions on social media platforms, with many Nigerians questioning the senator’s approach to public service and his treatment of constituents.
As public servants are held to high standards of conduct, incidents like these highlight the importance of empathy, accountability, and respect for the rights and dignity of all citizens.
Throwback Video Resurfaces of Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi Disposing Food Vendor’s Goods in Ebonyi State pic.twitter.com/dzuJxq7kS1
— Naijausers™ (@Naijausers_) May 22, 2025
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