Founder and national leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Seriake Dickson, has thrown open the doors of his party to politicians searching for a “clean” and crisis-free platform amid Nigeria’s shifting political landscape.
The former Bayelsa governor, who now represents Bayelsa West in the Senate, declared that the NDC is ready to absorb both ordinary Nigerians and political actors disillusioned by ongoing developments across the country.
“Our party is available for all Nigerians who are now helpless and desirous of a change,” he said.
The NDC, which was officially registered by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in February, has been gaining traction since Dickson formally unveiled his move to the party in Abuja on March 5. Just days later, on March 15, the party launched its digital membership registration platform, signaling an aggressive push for expansion.
Dickson made it clear that the party is particularly open to politicians seeking a fresh start.
“The NDC is also available to all politicians who are stranded as a result of the political developments in the country, who need a platform that is clean and unencumbered with any political crisis,” he said.
Positioning the NDC as a break from traditional politics, Dickson described it as a movement driven by ideas and service, warning critics that the party’s rise is only just beginning.
“The NDC is an ideological party and stands for a new brand of politics of ideas and service,” he said.
“For those who are purveyors of the false news, propaganda and their sponsors, I have bad news for them, they have not seen anything yet! The NDC has come to stay, and will mobilise all across Nigeria.”
Riding on what he described as increasing nationwide support, the senator urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to rally behind the party, insisting its momentum is unstoppable.
“I commend Nigerians at home and in the diaspora for their confidence in the NDC,” he said.
“While some may feel threatened by our momentum, they should be reminded that no force can stop an idea whose time has come.”
“As Mahatma Gandhi famously said: ‘First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, and then you win.’ The NDC will win!”
Dickson’s declaration comes on the heels of the de-recognition of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership by INEC due to ongoing litigation, a development that has left many politicians politically stranded.
He also took a swipe at criticism from Umar Ardo, describing it as “misguided and sponsored propaganda,” and expressed surprise given their long-standing relationship.
“Dr. Ardo is aware of all of this because, being a friend, we spoke, where he explained his frustrations stemming from INEC’s refusal to register the ADA,” he said.
Dickson clarified that while he sympathised with Ardo’s situation, the NDC has no ties to the legal battles surrounding the ADA.
“I am aware of the challenges he has in court as a result of disputes between him and his fellow promoters of the ADA and the NDC has nothing to do with this and, therefore, cannot bear any responsibilities for his disappointment and frustration,” he said.
