The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially granted waivers to the former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, and the former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Victor Ochei.
This approval permits them to contest the Delta Central and Delta North Senatorial seats, respectively, under the party’s banner in the 2027 general elections.
This decision comes just six days after Omo-Agege officially resigned from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the NDC, accelerating political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
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In a statement released on Thursday, the NDC National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, explained that the waivers were approved following the formal defection of both political figures from the APC. He described them as seasoned politicians with deep grassroots connections capable of boosting the NDC’s prospects 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.”
Director added that the NDC would provide a “credible, inclusive, and people-oriented platform” to support their political goals and advance development.
He added:“The party remains committed to internal democracy, inclusion, transparency, and the collective aspiration of building a better Delta State and a greater Nigeria.”
Omo-Agege had previously declared his resignation from the APC on Friday, ending weeks of speculation regarding his next political move.
In an extensive statement, he noted that his exit followed thorough consultations with political allies, supporters, and key stakeholders throughout Delta State.
He stated:“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 maintained that the citizens of Delta State are seeking leadership rooted in integrity, accountability, and citizen-centered governance.
Omo-Agege also expressed gratitude to several prominent NDC figures who engaged with him during his transition to the opposition party.
He said:“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 characterized the NDC as an organization founded on accountability, inclusion, grassroots engagement, and true federalism.
Announcing his bid to return to the upper legislative chamber, Omo-Agege stated that he was answering the calls of his constituents in Delta Central.
He said:“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 criticized the disparity between Delta State’s vast economic resources and the standard of living of its residents, asserting that the NDC is ready to dismantle a cycle of failed leadership and bring back administrative accountability.
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Furthermore, the former deputy senate president committed to reinforcing the NDC’s political framework across Delta State prior to the polls.
He stated:“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.”
Omo-Agege concluded by promising that, if elected, his legislative focus would center on bringing federal projects to the region, boosting employment opportunities, and ensuring public resources are used transparently.
