For the first time since Bayelsa State was created 26 years ago, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has found itself in the unfamiliar position of being an opposition party in the state.
Senator Seriake Dickson, former Governor of Bayelsa and Senator representing Bayelsa West, made this observation in a statement issued on Wednesday, acknowledging the new political reality following the recent elections.
Senator Dickson, however, reminded party faithful that the PDP has been instrumental to Bayelsa’s growth and development, noting that the party had created opportunities for countless Bayelsans and played a historic role in shaping the state’s destiny.
His words: “For the first time in Bayelsa’s political history, the PDP has become an opposition party.
”Despite the current challenges, we must remember that the PDP built the political foundation upon which this state stands today,” he said.
The former governor described the PDP as an integral part of Ijaw and Niger Delta political history, urging members to remain loyal and steadfast even in the face of defeat.
He recalled that under the PDP, a son of Bayelsa State rose to occupy the nation’s highest office.
“It was the PDP that gave a Bayelsan the opportunity to serve as Vice President, Acting President, and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
”That legacy should never be forgotten,” Dickson said.
While acknowledging the setback suffered by the party, Dickson stressed that Nigeria’s democracy thrived best under a multi-party system, warning against the dangers of one-party dominance.
“I do not believe in a one-party system. Our democracy can only deepen when multiple parties exist to provide checks and alternatives,” he added.
The senator commended PDP members and executives across Bayelsa for their resilience and commitment despite the political turbulence, describing them as the “true believers” who continue to uphold the party’s values.
“I commend all PDP executives and members who have chosen to keep faith with the party in this trying period. Your courage will sustain our movement,” he further stated.
Dickson disclosed that he would begin consultations with other PDP leaders to reposition the party for its new role as the state’s main opposition.
“We will work together to rebuild and reposition the PDP to play its rightful role as a credible opposition party in Bayelsa,” he said.
Dickson expressed gratitude to Bayelsans for their unwavering support for the PDP over the past two and a half decades.
“Thank you, Bayelsans, for believing in and supporting the PDP for the past twenty-six years.
” We remain committed to serving the people and advancing the ideals that unite us,” he affirmed.
