The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has renewed his call for a new political culture in Nigeria, urging citizens and politbical actors to embrace integrity, justice and national interest as the nation prepares for major political activities.
Senator Dickson made the remarks in Abuja while receiving large defectors from SDP, ADC, Labour party and the NNPP across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He said Nigerians were yearning for a break from the old political style, stressing that the country needed sincere political realignment.
“We want a new Nigeria. We want a new style of politics. We want a great new order,” he said. “Our duty now is to rally all Nigerians, including those dissatisfied with their current parties. At the right time, the political class will understand this shift.”
He referenced the movement of prominent figures across parties, including what he described as the “Iron Lady of SBC” who now leads the ADC, adding that collective action could reshape the country’s political future.
Senator Dickson cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other national institutions to remain neutral and avoid any act—real or perceived—that may undermine democracy.
“Remove any impression of manipulation or control. Even the perception alone is dangerous, Inducement, pressure, threats and interference weaken our institutions and damage trust.” he warned.
He urged political parties, institutions and security agencies to avoid meddling in internal party matters, noting that such actions have serious consequences for Nigeria’s multi-party democratic structure.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s political history, he said true leadership is tested by fairness and respect for law.
“Leadership is about exercising power for the public good, Even when something does not favour you personally, you must still support it because democracy requires fairness.” he said.
He noted that former Nigerian leaders such as President Goodluck Jonathan demonstrated restraint and respect for institutions, which helped preserve national stability.
Senator Dickson emphasised that democracy thrives when both the ruling party and the opposition are strong and credible.
“This nation needs a strong party in government and a strong party in opposition. That is how democracy works everywhere,” he stated.
He urged the ADC and all political parties to resolve their internal issues peacefully, adding that the health of Nigeria’s democracy depends on stable party systems.
Earlier, the Leader of the defectors, Mrs Ahmada Pam, said their decision to join the NDC was based on the party’s distinct ideas and the leadership direction of Senator Dickson.
“I joined this political family when I contested a senatorial and House of Representatives seat in 2007,” She said.
“We are here again to support our national leader and the National Working Committee because this party is different, and its ideas are different.”
Mrs Pam announced that over 1,775 new executives would be joining the NDC, in addition to thousands of supporters across the FCT.
“We are mobilising massively. More than 1,775 executives are coming in, apart from many supporters in the FCT—including you,” he said.
She expressed appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to the party’s growth.
In an interview, the former Deputy Chairman of the FCT labour Party, Faruk Datsama declared support for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), describing the party and its national leader as the “best option” for Nigeria at this critical time.
He said the internal crisis rocking the Labour Party has created the need for Nigerians to align with a more stable and visionary platform.
“As you know, Labour Party is already gone because of the internal crisis. And I look at it, it’s the best option for us because we’re looking for security, we’re looking for employment, we’re looking for good governance,” he said.
Datsama added that his confidence in the NDC is rooted in the leadership credentials of the party’s national figure.
He expressed optimism that the achievements recorded in Bayelsa State during the leader’s eight-year tenure, as well as his performance at the National Assembly, would be replicated at the national level.
“I know he will bring that same thing he used—the wonders he achieved in Bayelsa—and what he is doing in the National Assembly now. That same thing he will transfer to this party. So I felt this is where I belong,” he stated.
By Georgina Humphrey
