A prominent politician in Delta State, Chief Ominimini Christopher Obiuwevbi, has declared his intention to contest for the Ughelli North/Ughelli South/Udu Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives under the All Progressives Congress (APC), receiving strong endorsement from clergymen who pledged to mobilise support across churches in the area.
The declaration took place on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at his Ughelli residence, where bishops, archbishops, pastors and other church leaders gathered to pray for and publicly back his ambition.
Speaking at the event, Obiuwevbi said his decision to run was driven by the need to provide effective representation and address what he described as the marginalisation of the Urhobo people despite their contributions to Nigeria’s oil and gas economy.
He maintained that the region lacks a strong voice in the National Assembly to negotiate benefits for its people, lamenting environmental degradation, unemployment and limited access to opportunities in federal institutions and oil-related agencies.
“The oil and gas resources that sustain Nigeria’s economy are largely produced in our communities, yet our people continue to suffer. We need a stronger voice to demand what rightfully belongs to us,” he said.
He also criticised the implementation of the federal character principle, arguing that it has often worked against qualified candidates from the region, while stressing that only strategic and assertive representation can reverse the trend.
Obiuwevbi further pointed to the declining livelihoods in oil-producing communities due to gas flaring and environmental pollution, noting that traditional occupations such as farming and fishing have been severely impacted.
Citing the late elder statesman Edwin Clark as a model of advocacy, he said the Urhobo nation needs bold and articulate representatives to fill the leadership gap and reposition the people for greater inclusion at the national level.
He, however, commended former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege for attracting key projects to Delta State, describing such interventions as true dividends of democracy.
Outlining his qualifications, Obiuwevbi highlighted his academic credentials, including multiple degrees up to the doctoral level, as well as his record as a former commissioner at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), where he executed projects in education, water supply and infrastructure.
He said his experience and track record have prepared him for effective legislative service.
In their separate remarks, the clergymen extolled Obiuwevbi’s character, competence and leadership capacity, describing him as a credible candidate capable of making meaningful impact in the Green Chamber.
Bishop Harriton Akpodiete said Obiuwevbi’s life and public service record reflect discipline, integrity and a genuine passion for the development of his people.
“We have examined his life, his works and his commitment to the Urhobo nation. He is not a stranger to service. He has demonstrated capacity, and we believe he will speak boldly and effectively for our people in the Green Chamber,” he said.
Most Reverend John Emekpu described the aspirant as a well-prepared and visionary leader whose academic and professional background positions him for national assignment.
“This is a man who is not only educated but experienced. He understands governance and has the intellectual depth to engage at the highest level. We are confident that he will not disappoint the people,” he stated.
On his part, Bishop Joseph Obamor said the time had come for leaders with proven competence and sincerity to represent the constituency, urging the clergy to take ownership of the project.
“We cannot sit back and complain about poor representation. We have seen a man who is ready, capable and willing to serve. It is our duty as spiritual leaders to guide our people and ensure that the right person emerges,” he said.
Also speaking, Reverend Joel Edjutememuh called for coordinated mobilisation across churches, stressing that the success of Obiuwevbi’s ambition would depend largely on grassroots support.
“Politics is about numbers, and the church has the numbers. We must go back to our congregations, preach this message and mobilise our members to support this cause. This is beyond politics; it is about the future of our people,” he said.
Prayers, Anointing and Endorsement
The spiritual session featured intense prayers for the aspirant, anchored by Apostle Roland Epwe and Bishop Goddowell Ivworiu, who prayed for divine guidance, protection and victory in the 2027 polls.
In a symbolic act, Bishop Billion Djunere performed an anointing on Obiuwevbi, declaring him prepared for the political journey ahead.
Acceptance and Promise of Accountability
Responding after the endorsement, Obiuwevbi expressed deep appreciation to the clergy, describing their support as pivotal to his aspiration.
“I thank the men of God, bishops, archbishops, pastors and all who are here today to endorse me. This endorsement is more than anything politics can give because it will bring victory,” he said.
He assured the gathering that their trust would not be misplaced, promising regular engagement and accountability if elected.
“It is not just about today’s endorsement. We shall continue to meet. By the grace of God, I will continue to give situation reports and a scorecard, even while in the National Assembly. When you send someone on a mission, the person must report back regularly. In my time, it shall be different,” he pledged.
The declaration and endorsement signal Obiuwevbi’s formal entry into what is expected to be a keenly contested race for the federal constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the backing of influential religious leaders now forming a key pillar of his early campaign structure.
