Bayelsa West Senator Dickson Quits PDP, Joins New Party, Rules Out 2027 Presidential Bid
By Media Talk Africa
ABUJA—Senator Seriake Dickson, representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District, has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the newly registered Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). In a press conference on Tuesday, the former Bayelsa State governor stated he has no plans to contest the 2027 presidential election, emphasizing his current priority is to build a strong national political platform.
Dickson explained that his immediate focus, alongside other political actors, is to develop the NDC into a credible opposition party capable of attracting Nigerians across the political spectrum. He asserted that the ultimate goal is to compete for national power, but that foundational work must come first.
“Our focus right now is not about who will run for president,” Dickson said. “We are concentrating on building a credible political platform that Nigerians can identify with. Political parties are built by people, not merely by their names.”
He linked this effort to the public discontent evident during the 2023 general elections, suggesting a viable alternative could gain traction. “With the right platform and credibility, anything is possible,” he remarked, referencing the “anger, hunger and frustration” among voters.
Dickson dismissed speculation that his move was a strategic step toward challenging President Bola Tinubu in 2027. He also downplayed the current debate over electoral zoning, arguing that strengthening party structures and democratic institutions is more critical. “Politics is much broader than arguments about zoning,” he stated.
Inviting politicians with various ambitions to join the NDC, Dickson described it as an inclusive national movement. “We are building a party that welcomes everyone, those aspiring to become president, governors, senators… to councillorship candidates,” he said. He assured that while the party is open to all, internal challenges would be managed.
The senator clarified that the NDC is distinct from the defunct Niger Delta Congress, positioning it as a modern, pan-Nigerian party. “The country has moved beyond that era” of regional politics, he noted.
Dickson’s departure from the PDP follows his criticism of the party’s “deepening internal crisis and poor leadership,” which he said has significantly weakened it. While acknowledging an emotional attachment to the PDP’s historical role, he blamed current leaders, particularly governors, for its condition. He warned against Nigeria drifting toward a de facto one-party system, calling it “an illusion” impractical for the nation’s diverse society.
His switch underscores ongoing political realignments ahead of the next electoral cycle, positioning the NDC as a potential new force. However, Dickson maintained that candidacy discussions will follow party development. “For now, I am not focused on the presidency,” he reiterated, framing the NDC project as a long-term institutional effort rather than a personal ambition.
