Nicholas Ossai, former member representing Ndokwa East/Ndokwa West/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives between 2011 and 2023, has formally submitted his nomination to contest the 2027 elections under the All Progressives Congress. He recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party after over two decades, citing a desire for change and the APC's "broom" symbol as a sign of transformation. Ossai praised the APC National Working Committee's adoption of direct primaries, calling it a democratic advancement that enhances grassroots participation and legitimacy. He described direct primaries as the most inclusive method for candidate selection, ensuring party members have a direct role in choosing their representative.
Ossai defended the National Assembly's recognition of consensus arrangements but emphasized that direct primaries remain the most transparent option. He stated that candidates emerging from such processes enjoy broader acceptance because members were part of the selection journey. Reflecting on his legislative service, he highlighted his roles as Chairman of the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges in the 8th Assembly and Chairman of the House Committee on Treaties, Protocols and Agreements in the 9th Assembly. He attributed his return bid to unfinished developmental goals and a commitment to continued representation for his constituency. "Today, I have the desire to return to the Green Chamber, not the Red Chamber, so that I can continue to address the pressing needs of my people," Ossai said. He expressed confidence in his popularity among constituents and support for the APC's direction in Delta State.
Nicholas Ossai now champions direct primaries despite spending two decades in a party where such processes were rarely practised. His sudden alignment with democratic reforms coincides with his defection to a party whose Delta chapter is influenced by political figures he previously opposed. If consensus remains accepted in the APC, his claim of prioritizing inclusivity rings hollow. His return bid rests more on rebranding than a clear break from past political calculations.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
