NDC gains momentum nationwide as Dickson preaches nonviolence, warns against intimidation

A former governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson, has applauded the growing nationwide support for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), describing the party’s expansion as evidence of its emergence as a formidable political force ahead of future elections.

In a statement released to supporters, Dickson expressed gratitude to party loyalists and new members across northern states including Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), noting that their mobilisation efforts have accelerated the party’s transformation into what he termed “a truly national platform.”

He disclosed that a broader wave of mobilisation is imminent, with the South West, South East, North Central, North East, and North West expected to join the South South in an intensified membership registration drive beginning next week.

Reaffirming his long-held stance, Dickson emphasised his commitment to nonviolent political engagement, distancing himself and the NDC from any form of unrest or incitement.

“I am an apostle of nonviolent politics,” he said, cautioning that individuals allegedly using state resources to sponsor smear campaigns or provoke violence should not associate such actions with the party.

Dickson, a senator representing Bayelsa West accused unnamed political actors of historically deploying state power, including security forces and thugs, against his supporters, resulting in violence and casualties.

However, he maintained that the NDC would not be drawn into similar conduct.

Dickson rejected claims that the NDC is a recent political creation, tracing its origins to 2017.

According to him, the party is the outcome of years of strategic planning, ideological development, and legal battles, culminating in its formal recognition following court victories.

“The NDC has come to stay,” he asserted, adding that intimidation and propaganda would not derail the party’s mission.

The NDC leader urged members and supporters to remain disciplined, law-abiding, and focused on grassroots mobilisation, while ignoring provocations.

He also advised political opponents to prioritise policy debates and candidate preparation over what he described as “violence and public disorder.”

In addition, Dickson called on security agencies to act decisively against individuals or groups attempting to incite unrest under the guise of political support.

Highlighting constitutional rights, he stressed that Nigerians are free to associate with any political party and to contest elections without fear of intimidation.

He warned against the dangers of political dominance by a single party, stating that Nigeria’s democracy depends on pluralism and the active participation of diverse voices.

“Nigeria cannot, and must not, become a one-party state,” Dickson said. “Democracy must survive, and the voices of all Nigerians must continue to count.”

The statement ended with a call for national unity and a reaffirmation of commitment to democratic ideals.