A coalition of political stakeholders and grassroots leaders across Delta Central has issued a strong and respectful appeal to former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, urging him to honour his earlier commitment not to return to the Senate in 2027, warning that any reversal could undermine his hard-earned legacy.
In a detailed statement released over the weekend, the group distanced itself from individuals allegedly pushing Omo-Agege toward another senatorial bid, insisting that such voices “do not, in truth, reflect the values or convictions of his genuine followers.”
The statement which was jointly signed by Hon. Gabriel Itietie (Ethiope East Ward 10, Egbo Kokori), Wilson Okorugbo (Ughelli North Ward 2/6), Jokpeme Joseph Omode (Uvwie Ward 10), Aderiobor Blessing (Ughelli North, Agbarha Ward), Comrade Akpobome Rufus Ibebe (Ughelli North Ward 1), Jude Isioro-Ohwerhi (Ethiope West Ward 4), Okono Kelvin (Ethiope West Ward 7), Warri Oghenemudia Wisdom (Ethiope West Ward 8), Comrade Maj Orodje Agbado (Sapele Ward 7), Nelson Agbajor (Okpe Ward 1), Hon. Edirin Rheriobore Godstime JP (Udu Ward 2), Arc. Oniomughare Alex Emuobor (Udu Ward 8), and Mr. Paul Kpologri (Ughelli South, Ekakpamre Ward), urged the former DSP not to go back on his word.
“Those parading themselves as supporters of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and urging him to contest the 2027 Delta Central Senatorial election do not, in truth, reflect the values or convictions of his genuine followers,” the statement read. “True supporters remember his words, respect his decisions, and stand by the principles he has publicly declared.”
The group anchored its appeal on Omo-Agege’s widely publicised declaration in 2023, where he affirmed that his tenure in the Senate was deliberately limited to two terms.
“It is important to recall that on May 19, 2023, following the outcome of the Delta State governorship election, Senator Omo-Agege clearly stated that his journey in the Senate was defined and deliberate—an eight-year commitment, amounting to two terms, which he considered sufficient. He emphasized that he had no intention of extending his stay beyond that period,” the statement noted.
Citing a report published by Premium Times, on May 19, 2023, the stakeholders reiterated the former lawmaker’s own words, stressing that his position was neither casual nor ambiguous. “The Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, says he is satisfied with the recognition and leadership experience he has achieved while in the upper legislative chamber for almost eight years.”
Here are his words: “When I came here to the National Assembly, my mind was made up on what I wanted to do. I don’t believe that one stays in power in perpetuity. You come, make your contribution and move on. I was determined to ensure that eight years is good enough for me in the National Assembly. If I am not able to leave my mark in eight years, it means that I was not prepared in the first place,” he said.
“I came here, I knew what I wanted to achieve and I have achieved it. And before the APC primaries, I made up my mind that the National Assembly was enough for me. That was why I took the decision that my services would be better appreciated this time if I were to serve as the governor of the state. And I very much believe this decision will come to fruition.”
The signatories argued that the former Deputy Senate President had already reached the pinnacle of legislative leadership and earned widespread respect for his service, noting that his legacy should not be subjected to avoidable controversy.
“As a distinguished statesman and former Deputy Senate President, he rose to become one of the most influential figures in Nigeria’s political hierarchy. By his own admission, he has ‘made his mark’ within those eight years and has nothing further to prove in the Senate,” the statement said.
They further warned that attempts to pressure him into contesting again risk eroding the very principles that have defined his political journey.
“It is therefore troubling that some individuals would seek to pressure a man of proven character to go back on his word. Such calls do not strengthen his legacy—they risk diminishing it,” the group stated.
Emphasising the cultural values of the Urhobo people, the stakeholders maintained that honour, integrity, and consistency must remain paramount in leadership decisions.
“The Urhobo people, and indeed the wider Delta Central electorate, are known for their deep regard for honour, integrity, and consistency,” they noted, adding that, “upholding your word will reinforce your reputation as a man of honour and integrity.”
The group outlined key reasons why Omo-Agege should resist calls to return to the Senate, stressing that leadership is not defined by longevity in office but by the strength of one’s principles.
“You publicly committed to serving only eight years in the Senate—this promise should be upheld. You have already achieved significant milestones and left a lasting legacy worthy of respect. Returning to contest would contradict your own stated belief that no one should occupy a position indefinitely,” the statement read.
They added: “Allowing others to build on your achievements reflects true leadership and statesmanship.”
In a tone both cautionary and reverential, the stakeholders urged the former lawmaker to remain steadfast in his convictions and resist political pressure driven by self-interest.
“Sir, history is kinder to those who keep their word than to those who bend under pressure. The people of Delta Central stood firmly with you during your governorship bid in 2023, and they continue to hold you in high esteem—not just for your achievements, but for your character,” the statement said.
“We urge you, respectfully, not to heed voices that seek to draw you away from your own principles. Do not allow sycophancy to erode a reputation built over years of discipline, service, and honour. Remain steadfast. Let your word remain your bond.”
The group further declared: “The strength of your legacy lies not in how long you hold office, but in the integrity with which you choose to step aside.”
