Why I rejected APC — Seriake Dickson
Senator Seriake Dickson, the National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), stated that he chose not to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) to prevent Nigeria from evolving into a one-party state.
Dickson made these remarks on Thursday in Abuja during a ceremony where the management of LEADERSHIP Newspaper, led by Vice Chairman Mike Okpere, presented him with a notification for the newspaper’s 2026 Politician of the Year award.
The former governor of Bayelsa State explained that his decision was influenced by what he perceived as a decline in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), his previous political affiliation. Instead of migrating to the ruling APC, he opted to help found the NDC as an alternative political platform aimed at nurturing a multiparty democracy in Nigeria.
“I did not believe Nigeria should become a one-party state,” Dickson said. He noted that the choice to create a new political party was made at a time when there was skepticism regarding the potential for a new force in the political landscape.
Since its establishment, Dickson claims the NDC has matured into what he considers a significant opposition entity. “Months down the line, we have built a formidable party and a major opposition platform in Nigeria,” he stated.
He expressed gratitude to Nigerians, particularly the leaders, members, and supporters of the NDC, for their trust in the party’s vision. Dickson also acknowledged the contributions of the NDC’s presidential candidate Peter Obi and vice-presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in the party’s development.
The NDC leader urged party members to move past any internal disagreements related to the nomination process and focus their efforts on the upcoming 2027 elections. He emphasized the necessity of mobilizing support for NDC candidates and promoting a robust challenge to the APC through democratic means.
Additionally, Dickson called on President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to foster a peaceful environment that would allow political parties and candidates to campaign freely. He encouraged political figures to respect the judicial system and to resolve political disputes through democratic processes.
In closing, Dickson dedicated the LEADERSHIP award to NDC members and to Nigerians who have supported the party’s commitment to strengthening the country’s multiparty democratic framework.
