With less than three weeks to the All Progressives Congress (APC) Delta Central Senatorial primary, indications have emerged that former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, and party stalwart, O’tega Emerhor, may opt out of the race.
Both political figures are reportedly reconsidering their ambitions following unsuccessful efforts to secure key endorsements from party leaders in Abuja, as well as a perceived decline in their influence within the Delta State APC structure.
Sources within the party suggest the duo are concerned about the possibility of a poor showing at the primaries, particularly against the incumbent senator, Ede Dafinone, who is said to be enjoying widespread backing from both longstanding and newer members of the party.
Attempts by Omo-Agege to secure a consensus ticket—reportedly framed as compensation for his 2023 governorship bid—have not yielded results. Similarly, Emerhor is said to have made moves to position himself as a sole candidate through endorsements, but without success.
A party chieftain, Chief James Etabunor, disclosed that both men are weighing their options carefully, amid fears of facing a competitive and unpredictable primary without guaranteed support.
Political observers note that the influence of both aspirants within the state chapter of the APC may have diminished over time, weakening their chances in a direct contest. According to insiders, the absence of a consensus arrangement has heightened uncertainty around their participation.
As the primary draws closer, sources indicate that if last-minute endorsements fail to materialize, both Omo-Agege and Emerhor could decline to purchase nomination forms, effectively withdrawing from the contest before it begins.
