Former Governor of Bayelsa State and national leader of Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Senator Seriake Dickson, has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the killing of his long-time ally and friend, Hon. Abba Anas Adamu of Jigawa State, who was reportedly kidnapped and later murdered despite ransom payment.
In a heartfelt statement, Dickson described the incident as “deeply devastating and heartbreaking,” lamenting what he called the “worsening wave of insecurity, kidnappings, and killings” across Nigeria, particularly in the northern region and parts of the South.
According to him, Hon. Abba Anas Adamu was abducted alongside colleagues while travelling, and was later killed even after ransom was reportedly paid.
Dickson said the deceased was more than a political associate, describing him as a “friend and brother” since their days in the House of Representatives around 2007.
He recalled their shared political struggles during the crisis that followed the illness of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, noting their involvement in the Nigeria First Forum, a group of lawmakers that played a key role in national stability efforts.
The senator further recounted Abba Anas’s role in the legislative process that led to the doctrine of necessity, which facilitated the emergence of then Acting President and later President Goodluck Jonathan.
He noted that during the process, Abba Anas seconded a key motion on the floor of the House, alongside other lawmakers including Hon. Dino Melaye.
He also referenced other lawmakers involved in the historic moment, including the late Hon. Bethel Amadi and Hon. Independence Ogunewe, noting that Abba Anas now joins them in death.
Dickson revealed that he had once nominated the deceased for a ministerial position, though it did not materialise due to political opposition in his home state.
Despite this setback, he said their relationship remained strong through the years, including during his tenure as governor and later as senator.
He added that Abba Anas was also among the founding members of the political movement that evolved into the NDC, though he later aligned with the ADC due to political developments.
The senator disclosed that he only learned of the tragedy after receiving a distressed call from mutual friend Hon. (Dr.) Sani Abdu, who confirmed the news following multiple calls from across the country.
Describing the loss as personal and national, Dickson said Nigeria has lost “a patriot, a friend, a brother, and a committed nationalist,” while he personally lost “a loyal ally and confidant.”
He extended condolences to the family of the deceased, including his wives, children, and associates, praying for strength for all those affected.
“What makes this loss even more painful is the cruel and tragic manner in which he died,” he said.
Dickson prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and announced plans to join friends and associates in a formal condolence visit to the family in the coming days.
