The senatorial ambition of former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Onyekachi Ochei, received a significant boost on Monday as scores of members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other political parties defected to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during his consultation visit to Ward 9 in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area.
The event, which attracted party leaders, supporters and community members, is being viewed as an early political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the defectors publicly declaring their support for the NDC and Ochei’s senatorial bid.
Addressing the gathering, Ochei said the growing support for his aspiration reflected the people’s desire for purposeful leadership, inclusive governance and effective representation in the Delta North Senatorial District.
The former Speaker, who also served as Executive Director of Cabotage Services at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), expressed concern over what he described as the slow pace of development across the district, insisting that the people deserved better representation and greater democratic dividends.
He urged young people to become actively involved in politics, arguing that leadership opportunities should not remain concentrated among a few individuals or political families. According to him, the future of Delta North depends on the emergence of a new generation of visionary leaders.
Ochei said he would unveil his comprehensive development agenda for the district once the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially declares campaigns open, adding that the NDC is committed to accountable governance, inclusive development and people-oriented leadership.
He also commended the NDC House of Assembly candidate for Oshimili North, Ashinze Obi Odogwu, describing him as a grassroots politician whose humanitarian activities and community development initiatives have earned him widespread support.
In his remarks, Obi Odogwu pledged to champion meaningful development if elected into the Delta State House of Assembly, describing Ochei as an experienced administrator and accomplished public servant with a proven record of leadership and service.
The highlight of the event was the formal reception of the defectors, who pledged loyalty to the National Democratic Congress and expressed confidence in Ochei’s vision for the development of Delta North.
The consultation meeting was attended by NDC leaders in Oshimili North, Ward 9 executives, party stakeholders, supporters and residents, underscoring the party’s efforts to consolidate its grassroots support ahead of the 2027 elections.