National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has expressed gratitude to his supporters across Bayelsa State, the Niger Delta and Nigeria, reaffirming his commitment to defending the country’s multi-party democracy despite what he described as sustained political persecution.
In a statement, Dickson thanked the people of Bayelsa West, whom he represents in the Senate, as well as the Ijaw Nation and Nigerians at home and abroad for their solidarity, prayers and support throughout what he called a determined effort to build a credible national opposition.
The former Bayelsa State governor said he had remained away from home for about eight months after attending the funeral of the state’s former Deputy Governor, returning to Abuja to establish and build the NDC with the support of party members, candidates and allies, including the party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, and his running mate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
According to him, the NDC has grown into what he described as the country’s biggest national opposition party, attributing its progress to the commitment of party officials and the confidence reposed in it by Nigerians.
Dickson maintained that Nigeria’s democracy and multi-party political system must be protected, expressing confidence that the judiciary would uphold the rule of law and resist attempts by what he termed anti-democratic forces to undermine democratic institutions.
He also commended supporters in Bayelsa for continuing to register with and strengthen the party despite his prolonged absence from the state, saying their loyalty had remained unshaken in the face of intimidation, propaganda and political pressure.
The senator accused some individuals he had previously supported politically of using government institutions to victimise his associates and spread falsehoods against him, but insisted that such actions had failed to weaken his resolve or that of his supporters.
Dickson urged Nigerians to embrace what he described as politics of ideas, principles and accountability, stressing that leaders should remain servants of the people rather than masters. He said future generations must be encouraged to defend truth, justice and democratic values above personal gain.
He disclosed plans to return to Bayelsa in the coming weeks alongside NDC National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas, to personally appreciate supporters and further promote non-violent political participation.
The NDC leader also pledged to mobilise young people, women, traditional rulers and community leaders to reject violence, resist intimidation and participate peacefully in the electoral process while protecting the sanctity of their votes.
Reaffirming his confidence in divine justice, Dickson reflected on what he described as nearly two decades of political challenges, including investigations, allegations and intimidation, saying he had consistently emerged stronger while leaving enduring developmental legacies during his tenure as governor.
He concluded by praying for God’s continued blessings upon the NDC, Bayelsa State and Nigeria, expressing optimism that justice, accountability and democratic governance would ultimately prevail.
