NDC grants waivers to Omo-Agege, Victor Ochei to contest senatorial primaries today

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has granted waivers to 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 in the 2027 general elections.

The approval comes just six days after Omo-Agege officially defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the opposition NDC, signaling growing political realignments ahead of the polls.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, confirmed that the waivers followed the formal defection of both political figures from the APC.

Director described Omo-Agege and Ochei as seasoned politicians with significant grassroots influence capable of strengthening the NDC’s position 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 both aspirants of a “credible, inclusive, and people-oriented platform” to pursue their ambitions and contribute to the development of Delta State and Nigeria.

Reaffirming the party’s principles, Director added that the NDC remained committed to “internal democracy, inclusion, transparency, and the collective aspiration of building a better Delta State and a greater Nigeria.”

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

In his declaration, the former deputy senate president said the 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 are yearning for leadership founded on integrity, accountability, and people-oriented governance.

He also acknowledged the contributions of 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 Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

“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,” he said.

“Their commitment to building a credible, people-first alternative gives me confidence that the NDC is the right platform for Delta State and Nigeria.” Omo-Agege described the NDC as a platform built on inclusion, accountability, grassroots participation, and true federalism.

Declaring his intention to return to the Senate, the former lawmaker said the decision was driven by repeated calls from supporters in Delta Central. “On this platform, I will contest for the Delta Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections,” he said.

“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.”

He further lamented what he described as the disconnect between Delta State’s vast economic resources and the living conditions of its people.

According to him, the NDC is well-positioned to end what he called a cycle of failed leadership and restore accountability in governance.

The former deputy senate president also pledged to strengthen the NDC 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.”

Omo-Agege also promised robust representation if elected, pledging to focus on attracting federal projects, promoting job creation, and ensuring accountability in the management of public resources.