Dickson Reaffirms Commitment to Multi-Party Democracy, Calls for Violence-Free 2027 Elections

By Correspondent

ABUJA – The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s multi-party democracy and ensuring a peaceful, inclusive political process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Dickson made the commitment on Wednesday when the management of LEADERSHIP NEWSPAPER, led by its Vice Chairman, Mr. Michael Okpere, paid a formal visit to his Abuja residence to present him with the official notification of his nomination as the LEADERSHIP Politician of the Year 2026.

The nomination, earlier announced by the newspaper, recognises Dickson’s record of public service, political leadership and contribution to the emergence of the NDC as a new opposition platform in Nigeria.

Dickson: Recognition Belongs to NDC, Nigerians

Receiving the LEADERSHIP delegation, Senator Dickson expressed appreciation to the newspaper’s board and management, describing the integrity and independence of the selection process as particularly significant.

The former Bayelsa State governor disclosed that neither he nor members of his political team had prior knowledge of the nomination, saying the announcement came as a surprise.

He commended LEADERSHIP for what he described as the credibility of the award process, stressing that the honour was not a personal achievement but a recognition shared by the NDC leadership, its members, supporters and Nigerians who had embraced the party’s vision.

Dickson dedicated the nomination to party officials and members at all levels, including those at the local government and ward levels, for their sacrifices and commitment to building the party.

He also extended the dedication to Nigerians at home and abroad who, according to him, believe in the NDC’s vision and its commitment to expanding Nigeria’s democratic space.

NDC Emergence Driven by Conviction, Sacrifice

Reflecting on the emergence of the NDC, the NDC National Leader said the party was established following difficult political decisions and a determination to pursue a different political direction amid what he considered serious challenges within the country’s existing political structures.

He explained that he had chosen not to remain in what he viewed as an ineffective opposition structure. He also said he declined to join the ruling party or the African Democratic Congress (ADC), opting instead to pursue the establishment of a new political platform.

According to him, the decision required conviction, sacrifice and the support of political associates and Nigerians who believed in the project.

Dickson acknowledged the contributions of the NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, whom he said had demonstrated confidence in the political initiative.

He maintained that the party’s growth had been driven by the collective efforts of its leadership, members and supporters across the country.

“We Are Not Enemies,” Dickson Says

Addressing Nigeria’s political climate ahead of the 2027 general elections, Senator Dickson reiterated the NDC’s commitment to multi-party democracy and a peaceful electoral process.

He urged political actors and relevant institutions to ensure that Nigerians could campaign and express their political choices freely, without intimidation or violence.

“We are not enemies. We are fellow Nigerians who disagree.”

Dickson said political differences must not become a justification for violence or the restriction of citizens’ democratic rights.

He also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to lead efforts to reduce political tensions and ensure that security agencies provide a conducive environment for all political parties and candidates to campaign across the country.

The NDC leader disclosed that the party would engage relevant security agencies ahead of its nationwide campaign activities to secure its candidates, officials and supporters.

He reaffirmed the party’s determination to participate fully in the 2027 electoral process and campaign across all parts of Nigeria.

Award Ceremony Scheduled for December 1

The LEADERSHIP Politician of the Year 2026 nomination forms part of the newspaper’s annual awards programme.

In its earlier citation, LEADERSHIP highlighted Senator Dickson’s public service record, experience across the executive and legislative arms of government, role in the founding and emergence of the NDC, and contribution to Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.

The formal notification presented during Wednesday’s visit precedes the main awards ceremony scheduled for December 1 at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

Senator Dickson thanked the LEADERSHIP board and management for the recognition, expressing his anticipation of joining other distinguished Nigerians at the formal ceremony.

#