Omo-Agege, Ochei Get NDC Waivers as Party Warns Against Unauthorised Endorsements

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has approved waivers for former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege and former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Victor Ochei, to contest senatorial seats under the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 The development comes amid fresh political realignments in Delta State following the defection of both political heavyweights from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the NDC.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the NDC confirmed that Omo-Agege had been cleared to contest the Delta Central Senatorial seat, while Ochei received approval to vie for the Delta North Senatorial position.

The party described both politicians as experienced leaders whose entry would significantly strengthen the NDC’s political structure and electoral prospects in Delta State.

According to the statement, the waivers were granted in recognition of their leadership credentials, grassroots influence and contributions to democratic governance over the years.

 “The party believes both leaders possess the capacity, political experience and broad support base necessary to provide effective representation for their respective senatorial districts,” the statement noted.

The NDC also assured the new entrants of a transparent and inclusive political platform capable of supporting their aspirations and broader contributions to national development.

 The latest development is widely seen as part of a broader political strategy by the opposition party to consolidate influential political figures ahead of the 2027 elections.

Meanwhile, the party has distanced itself from purported endorsement lists circulating in several states, particularly in the South-East, claiming that certain aspirants had already secured official backing from the NDC leadership.

In a separate statement also signed by Osa Director, the party categorically disowned the lists and urged party faithful, aspirants and stakeholders to disregard them entirely.

The NDC stated that the circulating documents did not represent the official position of the party and excluded several aspirants who legitimately purchased Expression of Interest forms and successfully completed screening processes.

“The national leadership of the NDC is not aware of any such endorsement lists, nor has any list been authorised or approved by the party leadership,” the statement read.

The party reaffirmed its earlier resolution that all duly screened aspirants would be allowed to participate in the primaries either through consensus arrangements or direct primary elections in line with the party’s constitution and democratic principles.

The leadership further reiterated its commitment to fairness, transparency and due process throughout its internal electoral activities.

Political observers believe the dual announcements, the approval of waivers for high-profile defectors and the rejection of unofficial endorsement lists reflect ongoing efforts by the NDC to stabilise its internal processes while broadening its political base ahead of the next election cycle.