Former Bayelsa State Governor and National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Seriake Dickson, on Monday night hosted a dinner meeting for governorship and National Assembly aspirants of the party, reaffirming the party’s commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and institutional development.
The meeting, which was attended by NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi, saw the absence of former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who was said to be engaged in party duties in Kano ahead of the primaries.
In his remarks, Dickson expressed appreciation to all aspirants for aligning with the vision and ideology of the NDC, noting that the party had grown rapidly within a short period despite initial doubts about its viability.
“When the party was founded, many people did not give us any chance, but by the grace of God, within a few months, the NDC has emerged as the fastest-growing political party and the most cohesive opposition platform in the country,” he said.
He commended party officials and members for their sacrifices, particularly praising the Screening Committee chaired by former Ebonyi State Governor and ex-Minister, Senator Sam Egwu, for its work in assessing aspirants ahead of the primaries.
Dickson also thanked aspirants for their financial and moral contributions to the growth of the party, describing the NDC as an “innovative and forward-looking political platform” committed to building strong democratic institutions.
He explained that the party’s Selection Committee, led by the National Chairman and other leaders, would review screening reports, consult widely across constituencies, and make recommendations based on competence, local dynamics, and the overall interest of the party.
According to him, the party is encouraging consensus-building among aspirants where possible in order to reduce internal conflict and strengthen unity, while also ensuring democratic primaries where consensus cannot be reached.
“Only one candidate can eventually emerge for each office, but the party will not forget those who have made sacrifices and invested in the movement,” he stated.
Dickson further noted that the NDC is being structured as an ideological and long-term political institution rather than a platform for “transactional politics,” adding that efforts are underway to compile a comprehensive database of all aspirants and supporters.
He said the database would be used to integrate contributors into future party structures, including campaign organisations and strategic committees.
The former governor also disclosed that the current primary election cycle would be the last conducted through a largely manual process, as the party plans to adopt electronic systems to improve transparency and efficiency in future elections.
He added that due to time constraints ahead of the polls, the party would continue to promote consensus arrangements, but assured that credible primaries would be conducted where necessary in line with its constitution.
Dickson thanked aspirants for travelling from across the country despite insecurity and economic challenges, assuring them that all contributions made to the party would be transparently managed.
He also announced that the party would soon launch a communication platform to improve engagement with aspirants, members, and stakeholders.
He wished participants safe travels back to their destinations.
