By Henry Umoru

ABUJA — The National Working Committee, NWC, of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has approved waivers for former Deputy President of the Senate, 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 on the platform of the party in the 2027 general elections.

The approval followed the formal defection of the two political leaders from the All Progressives Congress, APC, to the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC.

In a statement issued by the NDC National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, the party said it warmly welcomed both leaders and assured them of a credible and inclusive platform to pursue their political aspirations.

The statement read: “The leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has approved waivers for former Deputy President of the Senate, 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 under the platform of the party in the 2027 general elections.

“This decision follows the formal defection of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei from the ruling APC to the National Democratic Congress, NDC.

“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 party explained that the waivers were granted in recognition of the political experience, leadership capacity and commitment of both politicians to democratic ideals and good governance.

According to the statement, the NDC leadership expressed confidence that Omo-Agege and Ochei possess the competence, experience and grassroots support needed to provide quality representation for the people of Delta Central and Delta North Senatorial Districts.

The party also reaffirmed its commitment to internal democracy, transparency, inclusion and the collective aspiration of building a better Delta State and Nigeria.