A former Bayelsa State Governor and senator, Seriake Dickson, has received prominent members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Labour Party (LP) into the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), in what signals a growing wave of political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The high-profile defections, which took place in Guzape, Abuja, were led by Barrister Amanda Pam, a former ADC senatorial aspirant, alongside key grassroots structures from the affected parties.
Among those who joined the NDC are Farouk Dantsama, a former Deputy State Chairman of the Labour Party, and Hon. Nurudeen Bisalla, a former SDP Chairman in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), along with several ward and local government officials.
Speaking at the event, Dickson confirmed that the entire FCT structure of the SDP had been absorbed into the NDC, describing the development as part of a broader nationwide movement.
“What you are seeing in the FCT is happening across the country. This is not a regional movement; it is national,” he stated, adding that the party remains open to Nigerians seeking an alternative political platform.
Amid the defections, Dickson raised concerns over the crisis within the ADC and warned against alleged interference by state institutions in the affairs of opposition parties.
His comments followed recent actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which removed a factional ADC leadership led by David Mark from its portal and suspended dealings with all factions pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
INEC, through National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna, said the move was necessary to avoid interfering with ongoing judicial proceedings.
However, Dickson cautioned that even the perception of interference could undermine public trust in democratic institutions.
“A threat to one opposition party is a threat to all opposition parties. We stand united to defend Nigeria’s multi-party democracy,” he said.
He stressed that political parties must be allowed to resolve internal disputes without government involvement, urging INEC to maintain strict neutrality.
“INEC must not only be impartial—it must also be seen to be impartial. Its image must remain above board,” he warned, noting that any suggestion of manipulation could trigger a crisis of confidence.
Providing further insight into the NDC’s activities, Dickson revealed that the party recently held its first National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, which was monitored by INEC without objections. He added that key decisions, including timelines for congresses, would soon be announced by the party’s leadership.
The former governor also warned against any drift toward a one-party system, emphasizing that Nigeria’s democratic history is rooted in tolerance and respect for opposition voices.
He cited past administrations led by Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and Goodluck Jonathan as examples of leadership that upheld multi-party democracy.
“Leadership is not about doing whatever you can do. It is about restraint in the exercise of power for the public good and to protect our constitutional democracy,” Dickson said.
He further urged opposition parties to explore legitimate alliances, referencing past collaborations such as the alliance between the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and the All Peoples Party (APP) during Nigeria’s 1998 transition.
Reaffirming his position, Dickson stressed that both a strong ruling party and a vibrant opposition are essential for democratic stability, warning that any real or perceived interference in party affairs could weaken public confidence ahead of future elections.
