The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State, Dr. Kelechi Anosike, has pledged to pursue the reopening of capped oil wells and promote industrial development in Ukwa East Local Government Area as part of his proposed development agenda for the state.

Anosike made the commitments during a consultation visit to the area, where he unveiled a development plan titled Ukwa East: Resource-to-Wealth Initiative. The proposal includes exploring new hydrocarbon deposits, developing silica resources along the Azumini River for glass production and improving critical road infrastructure.

He said he had prepared a development blueprint for every local government area in Abia State, describing the documents as proposed charters between him and the people.

The PDP candidate, who identified himself as an energy lawyer, said that if elected, he would engage the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) within his first 100 days in office to review the circumstances surrounding the capping and blocking of oil wells in Ndoki land and pursue their reopening.

“I am aware you have capped and blocked oil wells, thereby depriving you of some benefits due to oil-producing communities. Within 100 days in office, I will get the NNPCL to come in here to review and reopen it,” Anosike said.

He added that he would seek the Federal Government’s involvement in exploring other hydrocarbon deposits in the area, arguing that additional discoveries could create more economic opportunities for local communities.

On industrialisation, Anosike said he would engage Chinese experts to conduct soil tests around the Azumini River to determine whether the silica deposits were available in commercially viable quantities for glass manufacturing.

He also pledged to engage the Federal Government on the proposed construction of the Azumini Sea Port, which he identified as another potential driver of economic activity in the area.

Addressing road infrastructure, the candidate promised to rebuild the collapsed section of Obohia Road and award a contract for the rehabilitation of Ohanku Road within his first 100 days in office, if elected.

He further proposed reviving Abia Palm, which he said had previously employed more than 6,000 workers. According to him, the plan would create opportunities to re-engage former workers while supporting his broader commitment to improving livelihoods alongside infrastructure development.

PDP Leaders and Community Representatives React

Speaking at the meeting, Anosike’s running mate and Abia PDP Chairman, Elder Amah Abraham, said political parties had disappointed residents but expressed confidence that the candidate would seek to change that situation.

The PDP senatorial candidate for Abia South, Chinyere Onuoha, described Anosike as a new entrant into politics who was committed to fulfilling his promises. She said she expected residents to see results within one year.

President General of the Ndoki Development Union, Chisom Nwachukwu, criticised successive political leaders for what he described as years of neglect of the Ndoki people despite the area's economic potential.

Nwachukwu said residents were more concerned about tangible development than campaign handouts. He identified road rehabilitation, the revival of Abia Palm and the proposed Azumini Sea Port as key priorities for the community.

After listening to Anosike’s proposals, he declared the union’s support for the candidate.

The President of the Ndoki Council of Chiefs, Nkem Ogwo, prayed for Anosike’s success and assured him of Ukwa East’s support, while the PDP House of Assembly candidate, Justice Uchenna, called on residents to support all the party’s candidates.

The meeting ended with the Ndoki Development Union endorsing Anosike as its consensus and sole candidate for the Abia State governorship election in 2027.