Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, former Deputy President of the Senate, has joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) a day after leaving the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State. He announced his defection and intention to contest the Delta Central Senatorial District seat under the NDC platform in a statement released yesterday.
Omo-Agege's Decision
In his personally signed statement, Omo-Agege described the move as the result of weeks of deep reflection, extensive consultations, and sincere discussions with his constituents. He had lost the APC ticket to incumbent Ede Dafinone during the party's primaries. He praised the NDC leadership, including Senator Seriake Dickson, National Chairman Senator Moses Cleopas, presidential aspirant Peter Obi, and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
“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. That call is loud, consistent, alive, and urgent. I cannot ignore it, and I will not betray the trust you have placed in me,” he said.
He lamented years of failed leadership, poor governance, and neglect of the state's economic potential despite huge federal allocations. Delta State, a major oil and gas producer, continues to face decaying infrastructure, unemployment, poor healthcare, and inadequate educational facilities. He noted that despite rich agricultural land, vibrant businesses, and educated youths, many communities suffer from collapsed roads, abandoned projects, and underfunded public institutions.
Victor Ochei Resigns from APC
Former Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Victor O. Ochei formally resigned from the APC yesterday, citing the need for broader political growth and renewed commitment to public service. He announced his resignation in a statement after deep reflections and wide consultations with political associates and supporters.
In the statement released through his media aide, Austin Edemodu, Ochei said he joined the APC in 2016 with sincerity and belief in the party's vision, dedicating the last decade to strengthening its structures and political influence. “Together with many committed party faithfuls, we expanded the party’s reach, deepened its structures, mobilised support across communities, and worked tirelessly to give the party relevance and visibility within our political environment,” he stated.
Ochei recalled aligning with the APC long before many current leaders joined, emphasizing that his political career has always been anchored on leadership, grassroots development, and public service.
APC Reacts
The Delta State APC chapter declared that Omo-Agege's resignation would not weaken its structure, unity, or electoral prospects. In a statement by Publicity Secretary Valentine Onojeghuo, the party insisted it remains strong, united, and aligned with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's leadership. The party said it received the news with unbothered equanimity and wished Omo-Agege success.
The APC noted unprecedented growth, renewed relevance, and wider grassroots acceptance across Delta State since Governor Oborevwori aligned with the ruling party. Members and supporters have embraced a new era of inclusion, stability, and purposeful leadership under the governor's influence.
