By DELTA FRESH VISION
As political activities gradually build up ahead of the 2027 general elections, discussions across the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency continue to revolve around one familiar name, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, OON.
Having secured the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the House of Representatives seat, Elumelu has once again emerged as a major contender in the race to represent the people of Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili North and Oshimili South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
For many political observers and constituents, the renewed interest in his candidacy is tied to his extensive legislative experience, grassroots connections and the development projects associated with his years in the National Assembly.
A seasoned parliamentarian, Elumelu served three terms in the House of Representatives. He was first elected in 2007, re-elected in 2011, and returned to the Green Chamber in 2019. During his last tenure, he rose to become Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, one of the most influential leadership positions in the National Assembly.
Although he lost his re-election bid in 2023, many of his supporters view the setback as temporary. They believe his decision to seek a return to the House in 2027 reflects a continued commitment to public service and constituency development.
Throughout his legislative career, Elumelu occupied several strategic positions. As a first-term legislator, he was appointed Chairman of the House Committee on Power, a responsibility considered remarkable for a new member of the House. In that role, he participated in legislative oversight activities relating to power sector reforms and electricity projects across the country.
During his second term, he served as Chairman of the House Committee on Health, where he contributed to policy discussions and oversight initiatives aimed at strengthening healthcare administration and service delivery.
His elevation to the position of Minority Leader between 2019 and 2023 further enhanced his national profile. As leader of a caucus in the House, he coordinated legislative activities, engaged in national debates and participated actively in discussions on issues affecting Nigerians.
Beyond legislative responsibilities, Elumelu became widely known for constituency empowerment programmes targeted at improving the economic wellbeing of his constituents. One of the most notable was the large-scale empowerment programmes organised in 2020, 2021and 2023, during which thousands of beneficiaries received tricycles, motorcycles, freezers, generators and other income-generating equipment.
During this period, he sponsored and supported numerous bills and motions focused on governance, public welfare and constituency development, earning a reputation as an active participant in legislative proceedings.
One project frequently associated with his tenure is the establishment of the College of Nursing Sciences in Onicha-Uku.
Available records indicate that the institution evolved from a healthcare project initiated through constituency intervention. The facility was subsequently integrated into the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba system following federal approval, creating the foundation for the establishment of the nursing college.
Former Medical Director of FMC Asaba, Dr. Azubuike Osiatuma, had publicly acknowledged the support provided by Elumelu towards the development of the institution, including infrastructure, equipment, scholarships and other interventions that contributed to its accreditation and growth.
The lawmaker was also credited with facilitating the construction of a 1,000-capacity auditorium, supporting hostel development and providing scholarship opportunities for students of the institution.
Several other projects facilitated during his tenure continue to be cited by supporters as evidence of his commitment to development.
In the health sector, these included healthcare infrastructure projects, medical outreach programmes and interventions aimed at improving access to healthcare services.
In education, technology, recreation, ICT, and Event centres were established and built in various communities, while scholarship programmes and youth empowerment initiatives were implemented to support human capital development.
Infrastructure projects associated with his tenure included road interventions, water projects and the installation of more than 5000 solar-powered streetlights across communities within the constituency.
Community development efforts also saw the construction of multipurpose town halls, building of traditional rulers’ palaces and the provision of community facilities in several towns across the federal constituency.
In the area of security, he facilitated infrastructure support for security agencies, including office accommodation, staff quarters and related facilities aimed at strengthening security operations.
In the power sector, Elumelu is known to have invested heavily in building and construction of power infrastructure all around Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State and beyond.
Elumelu’s experience, network and understanding of legislative processes remain significant factors in the growing interest surrounding his return bid.
His enviable service record demonstrates an ability to attract projects and interventions, while his experience as a former Principal Officer of the House of Representatives places him in a strong position to advocate effectively for the constituency elected.
As the 2027 election season gradually approaches, political conversations across Aniocha/Oshimili are expected to intensify. For now, however, one reality remains evident: the emergence of Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu as the APC candidate has added fresh momentum to the contest and rekindled discussions about leadership, representation and development within the federal constituency.
It is strongly held that this renewed momentum will ultimately translate into electoral victory in 2027 given that the majority of the electorate are solidly behind him.
His re-entry into the race has undoubtedly positioned him as one of the major political figures to watch in the journey towards the next general elections.
FOR: DELTA FRESH VISION
Wilberforce Arinze
Ag. Chairman
Sunny Omamadia
Secretary
Grace Akaighe
PRO
