There is a popular saying that opportunity only becomes meaningful when it meets preparation. In many ways, that perfectly captures the political journey of Dr. Margaret Utsunung Ugbe popularly known as Chelsy and her aspiration to represent Obudu State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly.
For Dr. Ugbe, the dream of public service did not begin today. Her motivation to serve was shaped years ago while working within the Assembly complex as a secretary, where she had firsthand experience of the legislative environment and the responsibilities that come with representation. That exposure planted the desire to someday contribute more directly to the development of her people through lawmaking and effective representation.
But beyond the dream, she prepared herself for the moment. From her student and union days, she remained actively involved in leadership and community engagement, gradually building the experience and confidence needed for public life. Her commitment to politics has also been consistent and visible over the years.
I recall how both of us travelled to our respective villages during the 2023 elections to mobilize support for our great party, the APC, in our wards. Before and since then, she has remained undaunted in her loyalty and contributions to the party.
Outside politics, she also invested heavily in personal growth, business and academic development, equipping herself with the knowledge, exposure and capacity necessary for leadership. She understood early that leadership opportunities favour those who intentionally prepare for them.
Today, it appears that years of preparation are finally meeting opportunity. With the House of Assembly seat rotating to her political bloc and her ward one of the two in her bloc without any major elective position for nearly three decades despite its size and contribution, the moment seems both timely and deserved.
Even more important is the growing agitation for Obudu to produce its first indigenous female member of the State House of Assembly. That aspiration is coming at a time when Cross River State is blessed with a Governor who strongly believes in creating opportunities for women and a First Lady whose commitment to women empowerment has been visible and remarkable.
Everything about this moment suggests alignment; preparation, timing, experience and opportunity. It is increasingly looking like She was prepared for this very moment. Perhaps, this is why she deserves the support of all who desire competent, inclusive and people-oriented representation for Obudu State Constituency.
-Inyali Peter, Ph.D.
