By Henry Umoru
ABUJA — National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has reiterated his commitment to multi-party democracy and a peaceful political process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Dickson spoke when the management of LEADERSHIP Newspaper, led by its Vice Chairman, Mr Michael Okpere, paid him a formal visit at his Abuja residence to present notification of his selection as the newspaper’s Politician of the Year 2026.
LEADERSHIP had earlier announced Dickson, who represents Bayelsa West in the Senate, as the recipient of the honour, citing his public service record, political leadership and role in the emergence of the NDC as a new opposition platform.
Receiving the delegation, the former Bayelsa State governor expressed appreciation to the management and board of the newspaper for the recognition and the process through which the selection was made.
Dickson said neither he nor members of his political team had prior knowledge of the nomination, adding that he was surprised when the announcement was made public.
He commended LEADERSHIP for what he described as the integrity and independence demonstrated in the award process, saying the honour was not a personal achievement but one that belonged to the NDC’s leadership, members and supporters.
Dickson dedicated the award to party officials and members at all levels, including those at the local government and ward levels, for their contributions to the development of the party.
He also dedicated the honour to Nigerians at home and abroad who, according to him, believe in the NDC’s vision and its stated commitment to strengthening the country’s democratic space.
Dickson said the emergence of the NDC followed difficult political decisions and a determination to pursue a different political direction.
He said he chose not to remain in what he considered an ineffective opposition structure and also declined to join the ruling party or the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
According to him, establishing a new political platform required conviction, sacrifice and the support of Nigerians and political associates who believed in the project.
He acknowledged the support of the NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, whom he said had expressed confidence in the political project.
Dickson said the NDC had continued to grow through the collective efforts of its leadership, members and supporters across the country.
He used the occasion to reiterate the party’s commitment to multi-party democracy and a peaceful electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Dickson called on political actors and relevant institutions to ensure that Nigerians are able to campaign and express their political choices freely and without intimidation or violence.
“We are not enemies. We are fellow Nigerians who disagree,” he said, stressing that political differences should not become a basis for violence or restrictions on citizens’ democratic rights.
He also called on President Bola Tinubu to lead efforts to de-escalate political tensions and ensure that security agencies provide a conducive environment for political parties and candidates to campaign across the country.
The NDC leader said the party would engage relevant security agencies ahead of its nationwide campaign activities to seek adequate security for its candidates, officials and supporters.
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