Dickson Receives LEADERSHIP Politician of the Year Notification, Backs Multiparty Democracy
National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has reaffirmed his commitment to multiparty democracy and a peaceful political process ahead of the 2027 general elections. Dickson spoke in Abuja on Thursday when a delegation from LEADERSHIP Newspaper, led by its Vice Chairman, Michael Okpere, visited his residence to formally present the notification of his selection as the newspaper’s Politician of the Year 2026. LEADERSHIP had earlier announced the former Bayelsa State governor and serving senator as the recipient, citing his record in public service, political leadership and his role in the emergence of the NDC as a new opposition platform. Dickson thanked the newspaper’s board and management for the recognition, saying neither he nor members of his political team were aware of the nomination before its public announcement. He described the honour as a recognition that extended beyond him personally to NDC leaders, members and supporters, as well as Nigerians who had supported the party’s stated commitment to strengthening the country’s democratic space. He also acknowledged the contributions of NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to the political project.
Dickson used the occasion to call on political parties, candidates and relevant institutions to ensure that Nigerians can participate in the 2027 electoral process without intimidation or violence. He urged President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to help reduce political tensions and provide an environment in which political parties and candidates can campaign freely across the country. Dickson said political disagreements should not be treated as grounds for violence or restrictions on citizens’ democratic rights, stressing that political actors remain fellow Nigerians despite their differences. He said the NDC would engage security agencies ahead of its nationwide campaign activities to ensure adequate protection for its candidates, officials and supporters, while reaffirming the party’s intention to participate fully in the 2027 elections. The LEADERSHIP Politician of the Year recognition is part of the newspaper’s annual awards programme, with the formal ceremony scheduled for December 1 at the International Conference Centre in Abuja.
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