NDC grants Omo-Agege, ex-Delta speaker waivers for senatorial race
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At a glance
- The National Democratic Congress (NDC) granted waivers to former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege and ex-Delta Speaker Victor Ochei.
- The waivers allow them to contest senatorial seats in the 2027 general elections under the NDC platform.
- Omo-Agege recently defected from the All Progressives Congress to the NDC.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has approved waivers for prominent politicians Ovie Omo-Agege and Victor Ochei, clearing them to contest senatorial seats in the upcoming 2027 general elections. Omo-Agege, the former Deputy President of the Senate, is cleared to run for the Delta Central Senatorial seat, while Ochei, the former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, will vie for the Delta North Senatorial seat.
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.
This development follows Omo-Agege's recent defection from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the NDC just six days prior, signaling significant political realignments ahead of the 2027 polls. The NDC, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary Osa Director, cited the political experience, leadership capacity, and grassroots appeal of both leaders as key factors in granting the waivers.
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.
Director expressed confidence that Omo-Agege and Ochei possess the necessary competence and support to deliver quality representation to their respective senatorial districts. The party assured them of a credible, inclusive, and people-oriented platform to pursue their ambitions and contribute to the development of Delta State and Nigeria. Omo-Agege had previously announced his resignation from the APC after weeks of speculation, citing a desire for leadership anchored on integrity and accountability.
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.
Omo-Agege acknowledged the role of key NDC figures, including Senator Seriake Dickson, National Chairman Cleopas Moses, and presidential aspirant Peter Obi, in his transition. He stated that his decision to join the NDC was the product of extensive reflection and consultations with his constituents, who he believes are yearning for effective governance.
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 Kwankw
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.