'NDC Has Come To Stay' – Dickson Fires Back At Critics

‘NDC Has Come To Stay’ – Sen. Dickson Fires Back At Critics
Party positions itself as credible alternative amid ongoing political tensions
Former governor denies involvement in ADA disputes, responds to criticism

Seriake Dickson, founder and national leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has said the party is open to accommodating politicians seeking a new platform amid ongoing political developments in the country.

Dickson made the remarks while outlining the party’s direction following its recent registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission, which formally recognised the NDC as a political party in February.

The Bayelsa West senator, who previously served as governor of Bayelsa State, announced on March 5 that he had joined the newly registered party.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that on March 15, the NDC launched a digital membership registration platform as part of efforts to expand its presence nationwide.

According to Dickson, the party is positioned as an alternative for Nigerians seeking a credible political platform.

“Our party is available for all Nigerians who are now helpless and desirous of a change,” he said.

He added that the NDC is also ready to receive politicians who feel displaced by current political developments.

“The NDC is also available to all politicians who are stranded as a result of the political developments in the country, who need a platform that is clean and unencumbered with any political crisis,” he said.

Dickson described the party as one driven by ideas and service rather than conventional political structures.

“The NDC is an ideological party and stands for a new brand of politics of ideas and service,” he added.

He further stated that the emergence and growing influence of the party had unsettled some political actors.

“For those who are purveyors of false news, propaganda and their sponsors, I have bad news for them, they have not seen anything yet. The NDC has come to stay and will mobilise all across Nigeria,” he said.

Dickson urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to support the party’s movement.

“While some may feel threatened by our momentum, they should be reminded that no force can stop an idea whose time has come,” he said.

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he added: “First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, and then you win. The NDC will win.”

His remarks come amid internal disputes within the African Democratic Congress following INEC’s de recognition of its leadership due to ongoing litigation, a situation that has fuelled speculation about possible political realignments ahead of future elections.

Dickson also responded to criticism from Umar Ardo, which he described as misguided and sponsored propaganda against the party.

He said Ardo’s comments were surprising given their previous relationship, noting that the NDC resumed its registration process after INEC lifted the embargo on new political parties last year.

“Dr Ardo is aware of all of this because, being a friend, we spoke, where he explained his frustrations stemming from INEC’s refusal to register the ADA,” Dickson said.

He added that he had advised Ardo to seek redress through the courts.

Dickson also clarified that the NDC has no involvement in the legal disputes surrounding the registration of the ADA.

'NDC Has Come To Stay' – Sen. Dickson Fires Back At Critics — ‘NDC Has Come To Stay’ – Sen. Dickson Fires Back At Critics

“I am aware of the challenges he has in court as a result of disputes between him and his fellow promoters of the ADA and the NDC has nothing to do with this and therefore cannot bear any responsibilities for his disappointment and frustration,” he said.