Senator Seriake Dickson, who represents Bayelsa West in the National Assembly, has resigned from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the newly registered Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Gatekeepers News reports that Dickson announced his defection on Thursday during a press conference in Abuja, explaining that lingering internal crises and divisions within the PDP influenced his decision to leave the party. He said the situation in the opposition party had made it difficult for him to continue his political activities under its platform.
The former Bayelsa State Governor expressed concern over what he described as the gradual weakening of opposition politics in Nigeria. According to him, the increasing trend of opposition politicians defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) could push the country toward a one-party system, a development he warned would be unhealthy for Nigeria’s democracy.
Dickson said he decided to align with the Nigeria Democratic Congress after studying the party’s manifesto and political direction. He noted that the party’s commitment to true federalism, devolution of powers, and improved investments in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and security reflects his long-held political beliefs.
The senator also disclosed that he declined invitations to join a coalition being built around the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stating that he was not convinced about the party’s policy direction and national agenda.
Dickson served as Governor of Bayelsa State from 2012 to 2020 before he was elected to the Senate, where he currently represents Bayelsa West. He called on Nigerians who believe in strengthening democratic opposition to support and join the newly registered party.
