Photo: Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, Former Dep. Senate President
By: Mandy Park
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has granted waivers to former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, and former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, to contest the Delta Central and Delta North Senatorial seats respectively in the 2027 general elections under the platform of the party.
The development comes shortly after the formal defection of both political heavyweights from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the NDC, a move seen by political observers as a significant boost to the opposition party’s growing influence in Delta State ahead of the next electoral cycle.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Osa Director Esq., the NDC said the waivers were approved in recognition of the duo’s political experience, leadership credentials, and commitment to democratic governance.
According to the statement, the party leadership expressed confidence that Omo-Agege and Ochei possess the competence, grassroots appeal, and experience required to provide effective representation for their respective senatorial districts.
“The NDC warmly welcomes both distinguished political leaders into the party and assures them of a credible, inclusive, and people-oriented platform to advance their political aspirations and contribute meaningfully to the development of Delta State and Nigeria at large,” the statement read.
The party further stated that its decision reflects its commitment to inclusion, internal democracy, transparency, and the collective aspiration of building a better Delta State and a stronger Nigeria.
Omo-Agege, who represented Delta Central in the Senate and served as Deputy President of the Senate during the 9th National Assembly, remains one of the most influential political figures in Delta State.
He was also the APC governorship candidate in the 2023 Delta governorship election.
Victor Ochei, a former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, is also regarded as a strong political force in Delta North with considerable grassroots support across the district.
Political analysts believe the entry of both men into the NDC could alter the political calculations in Delta State, particularly as realignments and defections continue to shape the build-up to the 2027 elections.
The latest development comes amid increasing political activities across major parties as politicians reposition ahead of the next general elections.
