Jane Salihu
The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Henry Seriake Dickson, has warned against any attempt to turn Nigeria into a one-party state, declaring that the country’s diversity requires a strong and vibrant multiparty democracy.
Dickson spoke in Abuja while receiving a large group of defectors into the party, including the entire leadership structure of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the Federal Capital Territory.
“Our nation is too large and too diverse to become a one-party state,” Dickson said. “Democracy can only thrive when there is a strong party in government and strong parties in opposition.”
He explained that the defection went beyond individual politicians, noting that the FCT chairman of the SDP, along with his entire executive structure—local government and ward officials—had formally joined the NDC.
According to him, the party was founded to give Nigerians a new political direction built on service, unity and development.
“This party was set up for the people of Nigeria. There is no discrimination on the basis of religion or ethnicity. We want a new Nigeria and a new style of politics,” he stated.
Dickson also revealed that similar political realignments were already taking place quietly in several states across the country, adding that many dissatisfied politicians were beginning to see the NDC as a new platform.
“The entirety of the SDP structure in the FCT is now with us, and similar developments are happening across the country. At the right time, Nigerians will see the full picture,” he said.
The former Bayelsa State governor further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other national institutions to avoid any actions or perceptions of interference in political party affairs, warning that even the impression of manipulation could undermine public confidence in democracy.
He stressed that Nigeria’s democratic system must remain competitive and inclusive, noting that political parties must be allowed to resolve their internal issues without undue external pressure.
Earlier, the leader of the defecting group, Mrs. Amanda Pam, who was also the former national deputy women leader in PDP, said their decision to join the NDC was influenced by Dickson’s political vision and leadership.
She announced that more than 1,775 executives from across the six area councils and 62 wards in the FCT were joining the party alongside thousands of supporters.
Also speaking, former chairman of the SDP in the FCT, Hon. Nurudeen Bisala, confirmed that the party’s structure across the territory had collapsed into the NDC, with members already issued new party membership cards.
In a separate interview, former Deputy Chairman of the Labour Party in the FCT, Faruk Datsama, declared his support for the NDC, describing the party as the best political option for Nigerians seeking stability, employment opportunities and good governance.
He said the ongoing crisis in the Labour Party had pushed many members to reconsider their political future and align with what he described as a more stable platform.
The latest development signals a growing political shift in the FCT as the NDC continues to attract defectors ahead of its planned party congresses and national convention.
