By Anne Azuka
Former Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, Otunba Nick Ovuakporie, has dismissed claims that former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, is planning to contest the 2027 governorship election, describing the speculation as unfounded and baseless.
Speaking with journalists in Asaba, Ovuakporie praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s developmental strides, noting that the governor enjoys broad support among Deltans.
“No one can hold His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, by the jugular. He is the undisputed leader of the APC in Delta State. The recent rumours about a challenge to his position in 2027 lack merit. His achievements have earned him the confidence of the people and will secure his re-election,” Ovuakporie said.
He stressed that the history of the APC in Delta State cannot be accurately told without his contributions as a key insider. According to him, the APC is not a personal fiefdom but a party built on progressive ideals and open to all.
Recalling the party’s trajectory, Ovuakporie said the APC in Delta was first led by Olorogun O’tega Emerhor before Omo-Agege took over upon joining the party, being the highest elected official at the time.
“We did everything within our powers to support him, including authenticating the parallel primary elections held at Mobile Base in Udu, where he contested against Emerhor. We stood by him until he emerged as Deputy President of the 9th Senate,” he explained.
Ovuakporie further stressed that Omo-Agege would not have attained APC leadership in Delta without his backing.
“It is an incontrovertible fact that without me, Omo-Agege would not have had the leadership of the APC during his reign, including the present state, ward, and local government executives that gave him support which he never reciprocated. I took possession of the entire congress materials singlehandedly and handed over the party structure to him with my name all over the country,” he added.