Senator Dickson Calls for Mass Defection to NDC, Warns Against One-Party Dominance

The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has called for mass defection into the newly formed party, warning that Nigeria risks drifting into a one-party state if urgent steps are not taken.

Dickson made the call in Abuja at the maiden National Executive Council meeting of the party, where he described the NDC as a people-driven platform established to restore democratic balance and promote inclusive governance.

The former Bayelsa State Governor said the party was created to give voice to women, young people, and other marginalized groups, stressing that its mission is rooted in fairness, justice, and national unity.

He lamented what he described as Nigeria’s departure from its founding ideals, noting that the country has increasingly become dominated by powerful interests at the expense of the vulnerable.

While urging members to remain focused despite the party’s modest beginnings, Senator Dickson expressed confidence that the movement would grow rapidly, insisting that history has shown that great political transformations often start with a few determined individuals.

In a direct appeal to members of the Peoples Democratic Party, Dickson invited those dissatisfied with the party’s current trajectory to join the NDC, warning that the PDP risks losing its identity and becoming a clone of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He emphasized that Nigeria’s size, diversity, and strategic importance make it imperative to sustain a competitive democratic system, adding that the country must rise to provide leadership across Africa in governance, innovation, and security.

Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the party, Senator Moses Cleopas, has pledged to uphold the party’s ideals and serve with integrity.

In his acceptance speech, Senator Cleopas assured members of his commitment to the vision of the party, urging leaders at all levels to see themselves as custodians of the people’s mandate.

He called for tolerance, inclusiveness, and dedication to service, describing the NDC as an open platform welcoming Nigerians seeking a new political direction.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, which first applied for registration in 2017, says it is positioning itself as a broad-based national movement aimed at strengthening democracy and expanding participation in governance.

By James Ezema