Barely three weeks to the All Progressives Congress (APC) Delta Central Senatorial primary, strong indications have emerged that former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, and party chieftain, O’tega Emerhor, may withdraw from the race.
The two political heavyweights are reportedly winding down their aspirations following alleged failed attempts to secure high-level political endorsements from the party in Abuja and a perceived loss of grip on the current party structure in the state.
Sources within the APC hierarchy reveal that both men are wary of a potential “embarrassment” at the polls against the incumbent, Senator Ede Dafinone. Dafinone is said to be enjoying a groundswell of support from both legacy and new members of the party, making a primary challenge increasingly risky for the duo.
Despite their national profiles, Omo-Agege and Emerhor have reportedly hit a brick wall in their efforts to secure a “consensus candidate” nod. According to Chief James Etabunor, a chieftain of the party claims that Omo-Agege has been lobbying the National leadership of APC and other national leaders to intervene with the state leadership to guarantee him the ticket as compensation for his 2023 gubernatorial loss.
He added that Emerhor has allegedly made frantic moves to secure an endorsement that would position him as the sole candidate. However, these efforts have yielded no positive results, leaving both men without the “courage” to officially throw their hats into the ring.
Political analysts suggest that the influence of Omo-Agege and Emerhor within the Delta APC has waned significantly. “They lack the grip and connection with the current party structure required to pull through a general election,” a source, who pleaded anonymity, told our correspondent. “Without a guaranteed consensus arrangement, they are afraid of what a free and fair primary would produce.”
As the primary date approaches, the political atmosphere in Delta Central remains tense. Sources added that if the sought-after endorsements do not materialise in the coming days, both Omo-Agege and Emerhor may decline to purchase the expression of interest and nomination forms, effectively ending their 2027 senatorial bids before they begin.
