Dickson warns Obi, Kwankwaso supporters against disparaging NDC, running party down
Dickson Cautions Obi, Kwankwaso Supporters Against Undermining NDC
Senator Seriake Dickson, the National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has issued a strong warning to supporters of presidential candidate Peter Obi and his running mate Rabiu Kwankwaso. During an appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time program, Dickson urged these supporters to refrain from disparaging the NDC or undermining its integrity.
Dickson reaffirmed that claims of an internal crisis within the party are unfounded. He emphasized that the NDC is affording its candidates a significant opportunity by providing them with a platform.
“The NDC leadership is intact, and there is no crisis whatsoever,” Dickson stated. He added that Obi, whom he described as a valued party member, has been made the sole presidential candidate, underscoring that the candidates should acknowledge the sacrifices made by the NDC’s leadership before joining the party.
Dickson addressed the contributions made by the party’s initial members, saying, “None of them was part of the formation when we were registering this party. They didn’t pay one naira; no presidential candidate paid ‘shishi.’ You have to grant NDC some credit. Stop making it look like anyone is doing NDC a favor. We are doing them a favor by granting them our platform.”
The senator also denied allegations concerning the sale of nomination tickets, clarifying that the NDC does not engage in such practices. Instead, he explained that the party is a self-funding entity, requesting contributions from aspirants for the party’s accounts. He stressed that these contributions do not imply a transaction for nominations.
On the subject of mandatory direct primaries, Dickson argued that the responsibility for determining the method of primaries lies with the political parties, not the National Assembly. He pointed out that many supporters claim victory based on results that may not be recognized by the national body, raising concerns about the institutional capacity of both the Independent National Electoral Commission and the political parties involved.
This message comes as the NDC prepares for upcoming electoral challenges, with Dickson urging followers to maintain unity and respect for the party’s leadership.
