The National Democratic Congress 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, under the platform of the party in the 2027 general elections.
The development comes barely six days after Omo-Agege formally dumped the ruling All Progressives Congress and joined the NDC, deepening political realignments ahead of the 2027 polls.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Osa Director, said the decision followed the formal defection of the two political heavyweights from the APC to the opposition party.
The director described both leaders as experienced politicians with strong grassroots appeal capable of strengthening the NDC’s fortunes in Delta State.
He said, “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 NDC also assured the duo of a “credible, inclusive, and people-oriented platform” to pursue their ambitions and contribute to the development of Delta State and Nigeria.
“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 on Friday announced his resignation from the APC after weeks of speculation over his political future.
In a lengthy declaration, the former deputy senate president said his 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.
According to him, Delta people were yearning for leadership anchored on integrity, accountability and people-focused governance.
He also acknowledged the role played by key 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.
“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.
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 move was in response to persistent calls from his supporters in Delta Central.
“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,” he said.
He lamented what he described as the disconnect between Delta State’s enormous economic resources and the living conditions of the people.
Omo-Agege argued that the NDC was positioned to end what he called a cycle of failed leadership and restore accountability in governance.
The former deputy senate president also vowed 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.
“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 said.
Promising robust representation if elected, Omo-Agege said he would focus on attracting federal projects, promoting job creation and ensuring accountability in the use of public resources.
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