National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has expressed gratitude to supporters across Bayelsa State, the Niger Delta and Nigeria, pledging to continue defending the nation’s multi-party democratic system.
In a statement released on Thursday, the former Bayelsa State governor thanked party members and supporters for their solidarity, prayers and encouragement since the establishment of the NDC, describing the party as a growing opposition platform.
Dickson disclosed that he had remained in Abuja for the past eight months after attending the funeral of a former Bayelsa deputy governor in January, dedicating the period to building the party’s structures nationwide.
He acknowledged the contributions of party members, candidates and political allies, including the NDC’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, for supporting the party’s development.
The senator also expressed appreciation to his constituents in Bayelsa West Senatorial District, the people of Bayelsa State, the Ijaw Nation and Nigerians from different political backgrounds for their continued confidence in him.
Dickson stressed the need to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic system, expressing confidence that ongoing legal matters involving the party would be resolved through due process and that the judiciary would uphold the rule of law.
He noted that despite spending several months away from Bayelsa, the NDC continued to attract new members and expand its activities.
The former governor further alleged that some politicians he had previously supported were now using state institutions to target political opponents and spread false narratives against him and his supporters. He claimed that years of intimidation and propaganda had not weakened their determination.
According to Dickson, one of his enduring political goals is to promote leadership built on principles rather than personal interests, while insisting that governments must remain accountable to citizens.
He announced plans to visit Bayelsa in the coming weeks alongside the NDC National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas, to personally appreciate party supporters across the state.
The senator urged party members to remain committed to peaceful political engagement, encouraging Nigerians, particularly youths, women, traditional rulers and community leaders, to reject intimidation, participate peacefully in elections and protect the democratic process.
Dickson reiterated the party’s commitment to justice, accountability, the rule of law and credible elections, while thanking party executives, youth and women leaders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders for their continued support.
Reflecting on his political journey, he said he had overcome numerous challenges during nearly two decades in public service and remained committed to serving the people of Bayelsa, the Ijaw Nation and Nigeria.
Dickson’s description of the NDC as Nigeria’s “biggest national opposition party” reflects his position and has not been independently verified.
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