Former Bayelsa governor insists party followed due process, dismisses allegations as propaganda amid rising 2027 political realignments

Seriake Dickson, National Leader of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), has pushed back against allegations questioning the legitimacy of the party’s registration, describing the claims as misleading and politically motivated.

In a statement posted on X on Monday, the former Bayelsa State governor said the NDC’s registration followed a transparent and long-standing process that began as far back as 2017—contrary to accusations that the party was recently granted approval without due procedure.

“For the record, the annexures show that we initiated the registration process for the NDC as far back as 2017, and INEC granted approval at that time before the process was halted,” Dickson stated.

He explained that the party later revisited and updated its application when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) resumed the registration of political associations.

Dickson’s response follows allegations by Umar Ardo, convener of the League of Northern Democrats and promoter of the All Democratic Alliance, who accused INEC of unlawfully registering the NDC in violation of constitutional provisions and its own guidelines.

Ardo claimed that while his group and others fulfilled all registration requirements, they were sidelined, alleging that the NDC secured recognition under questionable circumstances.

“The reason is that NDC obtained registration without applying, without meeting legal requirements, and without complying with INEC guidelines,” Ardo alleged in an interview.

But Dickson dismissed the accusations outright, warning that misinformation and political distractions were inevitable in a project of such scale.

“With my experience in politics, I am fully aware that an ambitious project like this will attract rumours, propaganda, and even blackmail,” he said, urging Nigerians to remain focused on the party’s broader mission.

The controversy comes against the backdrop of intensifying political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly following the defection of prominent opposition figures, Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to the NDC.

Dickson described their arrival as part of a strategic coalition-building effort aimed at creating a formidable political platform with strong grassroots appeal.

“What we are witnessing is a powerful convergence—combining party-building experience with the popularity, reach, and political weight of two national figures,” he said.

He added that the NDC’s long-term ambition is to evolve into a disciplined, ideologically driven institution comparable to leading global political parties.

“Our goal is to build a party that can stand alongside the ANC in its finest years and other established political institutions across Europe, America, India, and China,” he noted.

Highlighting the party’s inclusive vision, Dickson said the NDC is designed to empower young people and women through mentorship and active participation in governance.

“The NDC is a platform that prioritises inclusion, leadership development, and preparation for public service,” he said.

He called on Nigerians to join the movement and take an active role in shaping the country’s political future.

“I urge all Nigerians to register, participate, and contest elections under the NDC. Together, we can reclaim and rebuild our nation,” Dickson added.