Former Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, has stressed the need for strong opposition parties in Nigeria, saying democracy can only thrive where there are credible political alternatives.
Dickson made the remarks at the national convention of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Abuja, where the party also resolved to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria.
The former governor insisted that Nigeria needed both a strong ruling party and vibrant opposition parties to sustain democratic governance.
According to him, the country must not be allowed to drift into a one-party state, stressing that democracy survives when opposition parties are able to provide alternatives and hold those in power accountable.
Dickson noted that despite being barely three months old, the NDC had already attracted growing acceptance and enthusiasm from Nigerians across the country.
He said the party, which was initially ignored and dismissed by critics, had now become a major force that could no longer be overlooked in the nation’s political space.
The former governor explained that efforts to establish the party began in 2017 after concerns emerged over what he described as the weakening of the ideals and foundations of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He added that the NDC eventually secured a favourable court judgment, leading to its registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in February.
Dickson maintained that the party currently has no internal crisis, faction or pending litigation threatening its existence.
He also commended Nigerians, especially members of the Obidient Movement, for resisting what he described as propaganda, intimidation and blackmail targeted at the party.
According to him, political leaders from different parts of the country have embraced the NDC’s vision of national unity, inclusion and democratic renewal.
