Former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson, has expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their support and solidarity in his effort to strengthen Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
Dickson, also founder and National Leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), said the party had grown into a major national opposition platform within eight months of its formation.
In a statement thanking his supporters, the former governor acknowledged the backing of the people of Bayelsa West, Bayelsa State, the Ijaw Nation, Niger Delta region, and Nigerians at home and abroad, saying their prayers and commitment had remained a source of strength.
He recalled that since his last visit to Bayelsa in January for the burial of a former deputy governor, he had remained away from home while focusing on building the new political movement from Abuja with support from party members, candidates, and partners.
Dickson specifically thanked the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, for their partnership in the political project.
The senator insisted that Nigeria’s democracy must be protected, warning against actions he described as attempts to undermine multi-party politics. He expressed confidence in the judiciary, urging it to uphold the law and resist any pressure to become an instrument against democratic progress.
Dickson also praised Bayelsans and supporters of the NDC for remaining committed despite what he described as political persecution, propaganda, intimidation, and attempts to weaken his influence.
He accused some individuals whom he had previously supported politically of turning against him and using government institutions to victimise opponents, spread misinformation, and punish loyal supporters.
However, he said the challenges had strengthened his resolve to promote a political culture based on ideas, principles, accountability, and service rather than personal benefits.
“The courage to say no when no is the right answer” and the willingness to stand for justice and fairness, he said, were among the values he hoped to leave for future generations.
The senator announced that he would soon return to Bayelsa alongside the party’s National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas, for direct engagements with supporters.
He called for peaceful politics driven by ideas, urging young people, women, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders to reject violence and intimidation while participating actively in democratic processes.
Dickson further stated that his political journey had survived years of allegations, investigations, opposition, and controversies, noting that he had remained committed to public service.
He recalled his eight-year tenure as governor, saying he governed during difficult economic periods but left behind developmental projects and foundations across various sectors.
The former governor ended his message by thanking party leaders, youth groups, women leaders, traditional rulers, and supporters for their resilience, promising that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.
He expressed confidence that Bayelsa and Nigeria would continue to move towards justice, accountability, freedom, and credible elections.
