The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has approved waivers for former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, and former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Victor Ochei, to contest the Delta Central and Delta North senatorial seats respectively on the party’s platform in the 2027 general elections.
The development comes barely six days after Omo-Agege formally resigned from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the NDC, in what observers describe as a significant political realignment ahead of the 2027 polls.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said the waivers were granted following the formal defection of the two political heavyweights from the APC.
He described Omo-Agege and Ochei as experienced politicians with strong grassroots appeal capable of strengthening the NDC’s fortunes in Delta State.
“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 statement read.
“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 NDC also assured the duo of what it described as a “credible, inclusive, and people-oriented platform” to pursue their political ambitions and contribute to the development of Delta State and the country.
“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 had announced his resignation from the APC last Friday after weeks of speculation surrounding his political future.
In a lengthy statement, the former deputy senate president said his decision followed extensive 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.
According to him, the people of Delta State were yearning for leadership anchored on integrity, accountability, and people-focused governance.
He also acknowledged the roles played by prominent NDC figures during his defection process, including former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, the party’s National Chairman Cleopas Moses, presidential aspirant Peter Obi, and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
“Their commitment to building a credible, people-first alternative gives me confidence that the NDC is the right platform for Delta State and Nigeria,” he said.
Declaring his intention to return to the Senate, Omo-Agege said the decision was in response to sustained calls from constituents in Delta Central.
“On this platform, I will contest for the Delta Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections,” he stated.
“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.”
The former lawmaker also criticised what he described as the disconnect between Delta State’s economic resources and the living conditions of its citizens, insisting the NDC was well-positioned to restore accountability and effective governance.
Omo-Agege further pledged to strengthen the party’s structure across Delta State ahead of the elections.
“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,” he said.
“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 also promised to focus on attracting federal projects, promoting job creation, and ensuring accountability in public spending if elected.
