Founder of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, has announced a major breakthrough in the party’s efforts to strengthen unity and prepare for the forthcoming elections, following a series of consultations, reconciliation meetings, and stakeholder engagements across the country.
Speaking after a busy day of political consultations, Dickson on Tuesday disclosed that a stakeholders’ meeting he convened for Delta State leaders successfully resolved several disputes arising from the party’s governorship primaries.
The resolution, he said, has paved the way for the commencement of full-scale electioneering activities and campaign preparations in Delta State and the wider South-South region.
According to him, the meeting demonstrated the maturity and commitment of party leaders who chose dialogue and consensus over division.
He praised stakeholders for placing the party’s collective interest above personal ambitions and urged members in other states to emulate the same spirit of cooperation.
Dickson noted that while disagreements are common in political contests, some states had allowed relatively minor elections, including House of Assembly races, to trigger avoidable conflicts.
He stressed that teamwork and understanding remain essential for the party’s success at all levels.
A major highlight of the meeting was the decision of all Delta State governorship aspirants to unite behind the party’s candidate, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye.
Dickson described Iyovwaye as an accomplished businessman with extensive experience, strong educational credentials, and the leadership qualities necessary to govern Delta State effectively.
He expressed confidence that the NDC flagbearer possessed the vision and competence required to deliver good governance and address the developmental needs of the state.
He therefore called on party members, supporters, and stakeholders to close ranks and support the candidate ahead of his formal unveiling.
The former governor further stated that NDC governorship candidates across the country are individuals of proven capacity and integrity.
He maintained that the party is determined to provide a new leadership culture, particularly in the South-South region, where he said citizens deserve leaders who can rise above divisive politics and focus on development.
Beyond the Delta meeting, Dickson also hosted a pre-National Executive Committee (NEC) gathering ahead of the party’s formal NEC meeting scheduled for tomorrow at the NDC National Secretariat.
The informal reception, which has become a tradition within the party, brought together State Chairmen and members of the National Working Committee for discussions ahead of the official proceedings.
During the event, Dickson expressed appreciation to party leaders for their commitment, sacrifice, and dedication since the NDC’s formation.
He reflected on the challenges the party faced in its early days, including securing registration, conducting voter registration exercises, organising congresses, and completing primary elections within a relatively short timeframe.
He said the achievements recorded so far were the result of collective effort and determination by party members across the federation.
“Since February this year, we have all been in the trenches,” Dickson remarked, noting that building the NDC into a credible national political platform has required relentless work, daily consultations, and extensive engagement with stakeholders.
He urged party officials at both national and state levels to remain focused and committed as the party enters a critical phase of its electoral preparations.
According to him, the forthcoming NEC meeting and subsequent campaign activities will be crucial in positioning the NDC as a formidable force in the nation’s political landscape.
The party leader encouraged members to sustain the momentum, remain united, and continue working towards the realization of the NDC’s vision of providing credible leadership and effective governance across Nigeria.
