Former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege has dismissed claims that he defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating emphatically that it was the party that abandoned him and his supporters in Delta State. Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Wednesday, Omo-Agege clarified that he never left the APC, but rather, the party distanced itself from him and over 240,000 of his loyal followers in the state. He emphasized that his political shift was not a rejection of the policies he once supported, but a strategic realignment to a platform he believes can better deliver on national reforms.
Omo-Agege defended key economic policies introduced by President Bola Tinubu, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira. He described these measures as necessary reforms that he continues to stand by. The former senator stressed that these policies were not new or exclusive to the current administration, noting that they were also advocated by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi. This, he said, underscores the broader consensus that such reforms are vital for Nigeria’s economic restructuring.
Despite his continued support for these policies, Omo-Agege made it clear that his political allegiance has changed. He explained that while he still believes in the direction of the reforms, he now feels they can be implemented more effectively under his current political platform. He expressed confidence that Nigerians, especially those who have struggled with the immediate effects of the policies, would feel more assured under a leadership they trust more—namely, Peter Obi.
“I never left the APC,” Omo-Agege reiterated. “The APC left me and left my over 240,000 supporters in Delta State.” He added that even though he supported Tinubu’s economic agenda, he now believes Peter Obi’s leadership offers a better chance of making these policies work for the masses. He argued that public confidence is crucial for the success of any reform, and that trust in leadership can make the difference between policy failure and national progress.
Omo-Agege’s comments come at a time of heightened political realignment across Nigeria, with several prominent figures shifting allegiances ahead of upcoming elections. His endorsement of Peter Obi’s platform adds weight to the opposition’s campaign, particularly in the South-South region where Delta State is located. The former senator’s influence and voter base could play a decisive role in shaping electoral outcomes in the state and beyond.
As Nigeria continues to navigate economic challenges, Omo-Agege’s stance reflects a growing sentiment among some political actors who believe that while the direction of reform is correct, the execution must be more inclusive and transparent. His move underscores the evolving dynamics of Nigeria’s political landscape, where policy support is increasingly tied to leadership credibility and public trust.
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