The senator representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District, Seriake Dickson, has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party and joined the newly registered Nigeria Democratic Congress.
Dickson announced his defection on Thursday during a press conference at his Abuja residence, citing what he described as the steady decline of the PDP, once a dominant force in Nigeria’s political space.
The former Bayelsa State governor expressed deep concern over the party’s condition, saying it had lost its vibrancy and direction.
“The PDP is sick and presently in the ICU,” he said.
He also accused some PDP governors of weakening the party by aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress, a move he argued had deepened internal divisions and eroded its credibility as a formidable opposition platform.
Dickson explained that his decision to switch parties was driven by the need to pursue his political ambitions on a platform that aligns with his current vision. He noted that the Nigeria Democratic Congress was recently registered by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Following his announcement, the NDC leadership formally received him into the party. He was presented with the party’s flag and issued a membership card numbered “001,” signifying his status as one of its pioneer members.
Dickson served as governor of Bayelsa State from 2012 to 2020 before winning election to the Senate in 2023 on the PDP platform.
His defection comes amid mounting concerns over internal crises within the PDP and a series of high-profile exits ahead of the 2027 general elections.
More details later.
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