Senator Dickson Urges Protection of Democratic Institutions After Receiving Democracy Award
Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District and National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called for stronger protection of democratic institutions in Nigeria and across Africa, urging political leaders to uphold the rule of law and defend constitutional governance.
Dickson made the appeal after receiving the Pillar of Nigeria Democracy Award at the Diplomatic Digest 6th Anniversary Lecture, organised in collaboration with the Diplomatic Correspondents Chapel. The event attracted diplomats, government officials and representatives of foreign missions, including the Ghanaian and Burkina Faso High Commissions, as well as officials from Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Receiving the award, the former Bayelsa State Governor expressed appreciation to the organisers and dedicated the honour to members and leaders of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, as well as Nigerians who have remained committed to democratic governance.
He praised citizens and stakeholders who have sustained Nigeria's democratic journey since the country's return to civilian rule in 1999, describing democracy as the most reliable path to national progress despite its challenges.
According to him, democracy thrives on patience, accountability and resilient institutions capable of protecting the will of the people.
Dickson stressed that respect for the rule of law, an independent judiciary, a free press and a credible electoral system are fundamental to preserving democracy, warning that without these institutions, civilian governments risk becoming as authoritarian as military regimes.
He also expressed concern over what he described as a shrinking democratic space across Africa, particularly within the ECOWAS sub-region, urging elected leaders to respect constitutional provisions, term limits and democratic values.
The senator called on President Bola Tinubu and other African leaders to strengthen democratic institutions and avoid using state institutions for partisan interests, noting that public confidence declines when governments are perceived as oppressive or above the law.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Dickson urged all political stakeholders to safeguard the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary and security agencies to ensure that election outcomes genuinely reflect the will of the people.
He concluded by thanking NDC leaders and officials, including state chairmen from the North Central Zone and other party members, for attending the event and reaffirming their commitment to strengthening democracy in Nigeria.
#UTVAfrica#
