The lawmaker representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District, Seriake Dickson, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the newly registered Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), citing what he described as the worsening internal crisis within the opposition party.
Dickson announced his decision during a world press conference held at his residence in Abuja on Thursday, expressing concern over the current state of the PDP, which he said had deteriorated significantly from its earlier years of influence and popularity.
The former Bayelsa State governor said the party that once inspired hope among Nigerians had lost its vitality and direction.
“The PDP is sick and presently in the ICU,” Dickson said, lamenting what he described as the steady decline of the once-dominant political platform.
He also accused some governors elected on the PDP platform of weakening the party by aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to him, such alliances have further deepened internal divisions and eroded the party’s credibility as a strong opposition force.
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Dickson expressed optimism about the future of the NDC, which he said could provide a credible alternative platform capable of rebuilding the opposition and restoring confidence in Nigeria’s democratic system.
The senator noted that the party, recently registered by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), offers an opportunity for Nigerians seeking a new political direction.
He called on citizens across the country to identify with and register under the NDC, expressing hope that the emerging platform would help galvanise efforts toward building a stronger and more accountable political system.
Dickson served as governor of Bayelsa State from 2012 to 2020 before his election to the Senate, where he currently represents the Bayelsa West Senatorial District.