NDC grants Omo-Agege, Ochei waivers for senatorial race

Former deputy president of the senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, and former speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Victor Ochei, have secured waivers from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to contest the Delta Central and Delta North senatorial seats respectively in the 2027 general elections.

The development comes barely six days after Omo-Agege formally resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the NDC, further reshaping the political landscape in Delta State ahead of the 2027 polls.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Osa Director, said the waivers were granted following the formal defection of the two politicians from the APC to the NDC.

According to him, the party considered their political experience, leadership credentials, and grassroots influence in approving the waivers.

“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,” he said.

The NDC also assured both politicians of a “credible, inclusive, and people-oriented platform” to pursue their ambitions and contribute meaningfully to governance and development in 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,” the statement added.

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

In his resignation statement, 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.

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

Omo-Agege also acknowledged the role played by key NDC leaders during his defection process, including former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, 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.

Declaring his intention to return to the Senate, Omo-Agege said the move was in response to calls from 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 added.

He also pledged to strengthen the NDC structure across Delta State ahead of the elections.

“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.