By George Ozalla
Former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has declared his intention to contest the Delta Central Senatorial District seat in the 2027 general election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, signalling his return to the national legislature after four years out of office.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Omo-Agege said the decision came after wide consultations with political leaders, stakeholders and constituents across the eight local government areas of the district. He said the move was in response to growing calls for him to return to the Senate and continue representing the interests of the Urhobo Nation at the federal level.
He described the decision as one rooted in duty rather than ambition, noting that Delta Central requires an experienced and active voice in the Senate, particularly at a time when national decisions are shaping the country’s economic and political direction.
Omo-Agege, who served as senator from 2015 to 2023 and rose to become Deputy President of the 9th Senate, recalled his years in office as a period when the district enjoyed strong representation and increased federal presence. He pointed to several projects and institutions attracted to the area during that period, including a federal polytechnic, a National Defence Space School and an oil and gas industrial park designed to drive local content and employment.
He also referenced the establishment of the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences in Kwale, alongside interventions in healthcare, education and rural infrastructure across the district. According to him, communities benefitted from upgraded health centres, school projects, electricity support through transformers and solar streetlights, and initiatives aimed at improving local commerce and digital access.
He said representation at the Senate should be measured by results that people can see and feel, adding that his experience and relationships within the National Assembly and across government institutions would enable him to deliver more effectively if given another mandate.
The former lawmaker said his decision to run again was also driven by concern that Delta Central could lose its voice at the centre if it is not represented by someone with the capacity to influence decisions and attract development. He maintained that the senatorial seat must remain active and relevant in national discussions.
Looking ahead, Omo-Agege outlined his focus on infrastructure, job creation, education, healthcare and security. He said he would work with the presidency and relevant government agencies to ensure the completion of ongoing projects while pushing for new ones that directly impact the lives of people in the district.
He also pledged support for small businesses, artisans and young people, with a plan to push for funding and policies that open up opportunities in sectors such as oil and gas, maritime and technology.
Omo-Agege reaffirmed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aligning his ambition with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He described recent economic reforms as difficult but necessary steps aimed at stabilising the economy and creating long-term growth.
He noted that Delta Central stands to benefit from ongoing federal initiatives, particularly in infrastructure and energy, given its role in the nation’s oil and gas industry and its position as a commercial route within the Niger Delta.
He also called for unity within the All Progressives Congress in Delta State, urging party members to remain focused and work together ahead of the 2027 elections. He promised to run an open campaign and support the party’s candidates across board after the primaries.
Omo-Agege appealed to voters across political divides to see the election as an opportunity to choose leadership based on ideas and track record. He said his return bid is about sustaining progress and ensuring that Delta Central is not left behind in the years ahead.
His declaration brings him back into the centre of Delta State politics and sets the tone for what is expected to be a closely watched senatorial race in 2027.
