Former Bayelsa State Governor Henry Seriake Dickson has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of politicising serious national issues such as corruption and terrorism. His remarks came during the screening of ambassadorial nominees, including Ayodele Oke, a former director‑general of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA). Oke, appointed by former President Goodluck Jonathan, later faced corruption charges under the APC‑led administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Although the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) prosecuted him, the case was subsequently withdrawn.
Dickson, who serves as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, expressed curiosity about the outcome of Oke’s corruption case and questioned him during the screening. Oke produced a court order confirming his acquittal and explained the circumstances surrounding his departure from office. Dickson noted that the APC has a history of turning national issues—corruption, terrorism, the economy—into political tools, citing the party’s handling of the Boko Haram insurgency and the removal of fuel subsidies as examples that have harmed the country. He also criticised the APC’s anti‑corruption approach, which he says unfairly targets opposition leaders.
Emphasising the Senate’s duty to ask pertinent questions and clarify developments, Dickson voted to clear Oke’s nomination, as well as those of Kayode Are and Aminu Dalhatu, describing them as experienced and qualified. He stressed that national security matters must be handled with respect and discretion, irrespective of political considerations. The nomination of Oke and the other candidates is a significant development, given their backgrounds. The screening process offers the Senate an opportunity to scrutinise the nominees and ensure they are fit for their roles, with their appointments poised to impact Nigeria’s international relations and national security.
Comments are closed for this story.