Former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has officially joined the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and declared his intention to contest for the Delta Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.
Omo-Agege made the announcement in a press statement issued on Thursday, describing his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the outcome of “weeks of reflection, wide consultations, and honest conversations” with political associates, supporters, and stakeholders across the country.
The former senator said his decision was driven by what he described as the urgent need for leadership that prioritises accountability, transparency, and people-oriented governance in Delta State and Nigeria.
“Deltans want leadership that listens first, acts with integrity, and delivers results that can be seen and felt in daily life,” Omo-Agege stated.
He praised the leadership of the NDC for what he called its commitment to building “a credible, people-first alternative,” specifically acknowledging Senator Seriake Dickson, Senator Moses Cleopas, Governor Peter Obi, and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso for engaging him during the process leading to his defection.
According to him, the NDC represents “a platform built on the principles of inclusion, accountability, grassroots participation, and true federalism.”
Announcing his senatorial ambition, Omo-Agege said his return to the race was in response to growing calls from constituents in Delta Central for him to return to the National Assembly.
“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 said.
The former APC chieftain used the statement to criticise the state of infrastructure and governance in Delta State despite what he described as enormous federal allocations accruing to the state.
“In too many communities, roads have collapsed and remain impassable for months. Primary healthcare centres lack drugs, equipment, and staff. Schools struggle with overcrowding and inadequate facilities,” he lamented.
He further alleged that “too much of Delta’s wealth sits in CBN accounts while our people suffer from bad roads, collapsed hospitals, and abandoned communities.”
Describing the situation as “a failure of leadership and a betrayal of public trust,” Omo-Agege insisted that Delta residents deserved better governance and more prudent management of public resources.
The former lawmaker also declared that the NDC would immediately begin grassroots mobilisation across Delta State ahead of the 2027 elections.
“We did it before for the APC when many said it was impossible. We mobilised at the grassroots, organised our people, and changed the political equation. I bring that same resolve and experience to the NDC,” he said.
He promised that, if elected senator for Delta Central in 2027, he would focus on attracting federal projects, ensuring accountability in public spending, creating employment opportunities, supporting small businesses, and improving healthcare and education.
“I will not go to Abuja to warm the bench. I am going to fight for Delta Central,” he declared.
Omo-Agege also called for unity across the three senatorial districts of Delta State, stressing that “a divided Delta is a weakened Delta.”
Addressing youths, women, elders, and traditional rulers, he urged them to actively participate in the political process ahead of the 2027 polls.
“To the youths of Delta State: your time is now. Do not accept the lie that you must wait your turn,” he said.
He concluded by describing the 2027 elections as “a defining moment for Delta State and for Nigeria,” adding that the NDC was prepared to “end the era of excuses, empty promises, and leaders who vanish after elections.”
