Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, a former Deputy President of the Senate and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Delta Central, has clarified that the recent Supreme Court judgment on the Electoral Act does not disqualify him from contesting the 2027 election. According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Strategy and Communications, Mr Godwin Anaighe, Omo-Agege emphasized that the judgment did not make any order against him or pronounce him ineligible to contest.
The Supreme Court recently restored Sections 77(5), 77(6), 77(7), and 84(2) of the Electoral Act 2026, which concern party membership registers and candidate nomination. Omo-Agege described as misplaced the celebration by supporters of Sen. Ede Dafinone, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, who were congratulating their candidate over the judgment. He stated that his name was contained in the NDC membership register submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) before May 10.
Omo-Agege's name appeared on the commission's published final list of candidates, and he said the Supreme Court's ruling did not issue a candidate-specific ruling against him. He distinguished between the court's ruling on the Electoral Act provisions and any potential implications for his candidacy. Omo-Agege emphasized that turning the judgment into an announcement that he was out of the race amounted to political propaganda.
The NDC candidate urged his political opponents to campaign on their records and programmes rather than relying on misinterpretations of the court's decision. He expressed confidence in his chances in the 2027 contest in Delta Central, stating that the people would make their choice at the appropriate time. Omo-Agege added that political celebrations could not replace the electoral contest.
In response to Dafinone, Omo-Agege said if his opponent wants the Senate seat, he should come to the field with his record, programme, and arguments for another term. He emphasized that the people of Delta Central would not be swayed by celebrations but would consider the candidates' qualifications and proposals.
The Supreme Court's judgment was a significant development in the lead-up to the 2027 elections, with implications for various candidates and political parties. Omo-Agege's clarification aims to set the record straight regarding his eligibility to contest the Delta Central Senatorial election. His supporters and opponents alike are watching the developments closely.
As the 2027 election approaches, Omo-Agege remains focused on his campaign, urging his supporters to stay committed and for his opponents to engage in issue-based campaigns. The Delta Central Senatorial election is expected to be a closely contested one, with various candidates vying for the seat. Omo-Agege's participation in the election is now confirmed, following the Supreme Court's verdict.
Key points
- Omo-Agege says Supreme Court judgment doesn't disqualify him from 2027 Delta Central Senatorial election.
