The Onishe of Ubulu-Uku and Traditional Prime Minister, High Chief James Asika Onwordi, popularly known as Ibori-Ubulu, has formally declared his intention to contest for a seat in the Delta State House of Assembly.
He is seeking to represent Aniocha South Local Government Area under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The declaration was made on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at Ward 4 in Ubulu-Uku and later at the party secretariat in Ogwashi-Uku, drawing party leaders, stakeholders, and a large crowd of supporters.
Speaking at the event, Chief Asika said his decision to contest followed strong appeals from members of his community who have confidence in his leadership and past contributions.
“My people called on me to contest because they know what I have done and what I can do,” he said.
He described himself as a grassroots politician with wide acceptance, promising to prioritise development and empowerment if elected.
“There are many things to do. We will focus on empowering our people, developing our communities, and improving lives,” he stated.
Chief Asika also criticised the performance of the current representative, alleging a lack of visible development and meaningful impact, adding that residents are calling for change.
Reacting, the APC Chairman in Aniocha South, Norbert Akachukwu Sochukwudinma, described Asika as a committed party leader with strong mobilisation capacity.
“He is one of the supportive leaders of the party and has contributed financially and otherwise. However, the process is open, and we will assess all aspirants before choosing the best candidate,” he said.
Also speaking, a Ward 4 leader in Ubulu-Uku, Joseph Eze Nwaoye, said the community needs credible representation and expressed confidence in Asika’s ability to deliver.
In his remarks, Chief Dr. Fruitful Mekwunye, the Ekweume of Ubulu-Uku Kingdom, described Asika as a capable and people-focused candidate.
“We are here because we know he is fit to represent the people. He has shown care and responsibility towards the community, and we believe he will do more if given the opportunity,” he said.
Adding his voice, a Ward 5 leader, Okey Osakwe, said his presence at the declaration was driven by the need for fairness, inclusiveness, and justice.
“Although I am from Ward 5, I am here because Ward 4 has been marginalised for a long time. They have never held an elective position, while my ward has had several opportunities. It is time for equity,” he said.
Osakwe added that many in his community support Asika’s candidacy, expressing confidence that he would deliver meaningful development if elected.
“They believe he will represent us well and bring the dividends of democracy to our people,” he stated.
The declaration signals the start of heightened political activities in Aniocha South as aspirants begin to position themselves ahead of the Delta State House of Assembly elections.
