NDC Takes Decision On Omo-Agege’s Senatorial Ambition

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has approved waivers for former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, and former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Victor Ochei, to contest senatorial seats on its platform in 2027.

Omo-Agege was cleared to contest the Delta Central Senatorial seat, while Ochei was granted a waiver to run for Delta North.

The development came barely six days after Omo-Agege formally resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the NDC.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the National Publicity Secretary of the NDC, Osa Director, said the waivers followed the defection of both politicians from the APC to the opposition party.

Naija News reports that Director described Omo-Agege and Ochei as experienced politicians with strong grassroots appeal.

He stated, “The leadership of the party notes that the decision to grant the waivers was taken in recognition of their political experience, leadership capacity, and commitment to democratic ideals, good governance, and service to the people.

“The party leadership is confident that both leaders possess the competence, experience, and grassroots support necessary to deliver quality representation to the people of Delta Central and Delta North Senatorial Districts.”

The party assured the two politicians of a credible and inclusive platform to pursue their ambitions.

“The party remains committed to internal democracy, inclusion, transparency, and the collective aspiration of building a better Delta State and a greater Nigeria,” Director added.

Omo-Agege Explains Defection

Omo-Agege announced his resignation from the APC on Friday after weeks of speculation over his political future.

He said the decision followed wide consultations with political associates, supporters and stakeholders across Delta State.

“Today, I formally announce my decision to join the National Democratic Congress. This decision is the product of weeks of reflection, wide consultations, and honest conversations with the people I serve,” he stated.

He said Delta people were yearning for leadership anchored on integrity, accountability and people-focused governance.

Omo-Agege also thanked key NDC figures who engaged him during the defection process.

He further stated, “I thank the leadership of the NDC for reaching out and engaging me in this process: Senator Seriake Dickson, Leader and Founder; Senator Moses Cleopas, National Chairman; Governor Peter Obi, Presidential Aspirant; and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and NDC chieftain.

“Their commitment to building a credible, people-first alternative gives me confidence that the NDC is the right platform for Delta State and Nigeria.”

Declaring his intention to contest the Delta Central Senatorial seat, Omo-Agege said the move was in response to calls from his supporters.

The former Deputy Senate President said, “On this platform, I will contest for the Delta Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.

“Let me be clear: this is not about me. This is about the mandate you entrusted to me in 2019 and the renewed call from our people for my return to the Senate to provide effective representation.”

Omo-Agege said he would work to strengthen the NDC structure across Delta State ahead of the 2027 elections.

He said, “I know what it takes to build a political structure and make it competitive in Delta State. We did it before for the APC when many said it was impossible.

“Our immediate priority will be to strengthen the party from the ward level upward, register new members, and prepare a credible slate of candidates for the 2027 elections.”

He promised, if elected, to focus on attracting federal projects, promoting job creation and ensuring accountability in the use of public resources.