A coalition of political stakeholders and grassroots leaders across Delta Central has issued a strong and pointed 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 the legacy he has built over the years.
In a 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 reflect the values or convictions of his genuine supporters.
According to them, true followers of the former lawmaker respect his publicly declared positions and expect him to remain consistent with his principles.
The stakeholders anchored their appeal on Omo-Agege’s widely publicised declaration on May 19, 2023, following the Delta State governorship election, where he stated that his tenure in the Senate was deliberately limited to two terms, amounting to eight years.
They stressed that the statement was clear and unambiguous, reflecting a conscious decision to serve within a defined timeframe.
Quoting his remarks at the time, the group noted that Omo-Agege had expressed satisfaction with his legislative experience and made it clear that he did not believe in remaining in power indefinitely.
He had stated that eight years was sufficient to make meaningful contributions, adding that if one could not leave a mark within that period, it raised questions about preparedness and purpose.
He also explained that his decision to leave the Senate was driven by a desire to pursue other avenues of service, including his governorship ambition.
The stakeholders argued that the former Deputy Senate President had already reached the peak of legislative leadership and earned widespread respect within Nigeria’s political space.
They maintained that, by his own admission, he had achieved his goals in the Senate and had nothing further to prove in that capacity.
They warned that attempts to pressure him into contesting again could erode the very principles that have defined his political journey.
According to the group, calls for a comeback do not strengthen his legacy but instead risk diminishing it by creating a perception of inconsistency.
Emphasising the cultural values of the Urhobo people, the stakeholders noted that honour, integrity and consistency remain central to leadership expectations in Delta Central.
They argued that upholding his word would reinforce Omo-Agege’s reputation as a disciplined and principled leader, while any deviation could weaken public trust.
The group further outlined reasons why he should resist calls to return to the Senate, stressing that leadership is not defined by how long one occupies office but by the strength of one’s character and the ability to step aside when necessary.
They noted that allowing others to build on existing achievements is itself a mark of statesmanship.
In a tone both respectful and cautionary, the stakeholders urged Omo-Agege to remain steadfast and resist pressure driven by political interests.
They reminded him that the people of Delta Central supported him strongly during his 2023 governorship bid and continue to hold him in high regard, not only for his achievements but also for his character.
They noted that history tends to favour leaders who keep their word rather than those who abandon their principles under pressure, urging him not to allow sycophancy to erode a reputation built on years of service, discipline and integrity.
According to them, the strength of his legacy ultimately lies not in the length of time he holds office, but in the integrity with which he chooses to step aside.
