Hon. Kelvin Chukwudum Nwabueze has formally declared his intention to contest for the Oshimili South Constituency seat in the Delta State House of Assembly, joining the growing list of aspirants ahead of the next election cycle.
Nwabueze made the declaration on Sunday, April 19, 2026, during a consultative meeting with members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Local Government Executive Committee and party leaders at the Oshimili South LGA party secretariat. The meeting was held under the leadership of the party chairman, Dada Okolo.
Addressing party stakeholders, the two-term councillor said his decision to join the race was influenced by his experience in office and the changing political environment, which he noted is becoming more inclusive for young people.
“I’m a two-term councillor and I have done well in the office I was given. Looking at the present administration and the kind of governor we have, Sheriff Oborevwori, who is youth-friendly, it is now clear that younger people have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to governance,” he said.
He explained that in the past, younger politicians often faced barriers in contesting elective positions, but noted that recent developments have created room for broader participation.
Nwabueze expressed optimism that with the support of party leaders, government officials, and the people of Oshimili South, he would emerge victorious and deliver effective representation.
Speaking on his plans for the constituency, the councillor said his priority would be to bridge the gap between the people and the government by ensuring that the concerns of constituents are properly communicated.
He pledged to introduce regular engagement platforms, including quarterly press briefings and town hall meetings involving youths, indigenes, and non-indigenes within the constituency.
According to him, such engagements would help gather feedback from the people and ensure that their needs are presented to the state government for action.
“We have a governor who listens, but he cannot be everywhere at once. It is the responsibility of representatives to take the problems of the people to him and ensure they are addressed gradually,” he said.
Nwabueze also pointed to poor communication of government policies as a major challenge, noting that many citizens are not fully aware of ongoing reforms and programmes.
He said his close relationship with the grassroots, particularly young people, would enable him to explain government decisions better and foster understanding among residents.
Highlighting his achievements as a councillor, Nwabueze said his performance in office demonstrates his readiness for higher responsibility. He noted that he has sponsored two bills and moved over 10 motions at the local government level.
He also cited his contributions to education, including personally supporting the engagement of more than 10 auxiliary teachers in his community, as well as interventions in healthcare and electricity support for residents facing financial difficulties.
“My salary is minimal, but I do my best to support people. It is not about how much you have, but the willingness to help and make a difference,” he said.
On what sets him apart from other aspirants, Nwabueze described himself as accessible and deeply connected to his constituents.
“I am their friend, I listen to them, and I understand their needs because I interact with them regularly,” he said.
He identified his key priority as ensuring that the voices and concerns of Oshimili South residents are consistently represented at the state level.
The declaration event was marked by a large turnout of party members, youths, elders, and supporters from across the constituency, reflecting what observers described as growing grassroots support for his ambition.
Nwabueze expressed satisfaction with the diverse attendance, noting that people from different communities, including Asaba, Oko, Okwe, and non-indigenes, were united in support.
“It is encouraging to see everyone come together like this. It shows unity and gives me hope for what we can achieve collectively,” he said.
Responding to critics, the councillor dismissed doubts about his candidacy, insisting that his track record and connection with the people would ultimately speak for him.
He expressed confidence in his chances, stating that he remains focused on building support and delivering on his promises if elected.
