The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Abia State, Dr Kelechi Anosike, has committed to restoring oil production in Ukwa East Local Government Area and industrialising the region as part of his development blueprint for the state. During a consultation visit to Ukwa East, Anosike unveiled plans to reopen capped oil wells, explore new hydrocarbon deposits and harness silica deposits in Azumini River for glass production under an initiative he calls 'Ukwa East: Resource-to-Wealth Initiative'. He said he has developed similar development documents for every local government area in the state that would serve as a charter between him and the people.
Describing himself as an energy lawyer, Anosike pledged that within his first 100 days in office, he would engage the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to review the circumstances that led to the capping and blocking of oil wells in Ndoki land and ensure they were reopened. "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," he said. He added that the Federal Government would be brought in to explore other hydrocarbon deposits in the area, stating that discovering more wells would bring greater prosperity to the people.
Beyond oil production, Anosike said he would bring in Chinese experts to conduct soil tests in Azumini River to determine the commercial viability of silica for glass production. He also promised to engage the Federal Government on constructing the Azumini Sea Port. On infrastructure, he committed to rebuilding the collapsed section of Obohia Road and rehabilitating Ohanku Road within his first 100 days, describing both as critical to the state's development. Anosike further pledged to resuscitate Abia Palm, which once employed over 6,000 workers, with a view to re-engaging former staff.
His running mate, Elder Amah Abraham, who is also Abia PDP Chairman, said political parties had disappointed the people but that Anosike was ready to change the narrative. Abia South PDP senatorial candidate Chinyere Onuoha described Anosike as a committed politician who would deliver results within one year. The Ndoki Development Union subsequently endorsed Anosike as their consensus candidate for governor of Abia State in 2027. For savers, borrowers and businesses in Abia, reopening oil wells and developing infrastructure and industrial projects could affect economic activity and investment opportunities in the state.