Former Bayelsa State Governor and current Senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), a recently registered opposition party.
Dickson made the announcement during a world press conference held on Thursday at his Abuja residence. In his address to journalists, he expressed deep concern over what he described as the rapid deterioration of the PDP, a party that once dominated Nigeria’s political landscape and inspired hope among its supporters.
“The PDP is sick and presently in the ICU,” Dickson lamented, describing the party’s internal crises as a major factor in his decision to defect. He accused some sitting PDP governors of weakening the party by aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move he said had further eroded the party’s credibility and viability as an effective opposition.
The senator emphasized that the political climate within the PDP no longer aligned with his vision for effective leadership and national service. “I have been compelled to chart a new political path that reflects my current political aspirations,” he stated, noting that the NDC provides a platform better suited for his goals and ideals.
Shortly after his remarks, Dickson was formally welcomed into the NDC by its leadership, marking a significant boost for the fledgling party as it seeks to expand its presence ahead of upcoming elections. Analysts suggest that Dickson’s defection could influence political dynamics in the Niger Delta region, given his stature as a former governor and a key figure in Bayelsa politics.
The move underscores growing tensions within Nigeria’s major political parties, highlighting the challenges faced by the PDP in retaining key members amid rising defections to smaller opposition parties.
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