Politicians defect for Power and patronage, not me – Dickson

Former Bayelsa State Governor and National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Seriake Dickson, has explained why he left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to establish the NDC.

Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Wednesday, Dickson said a strong opposition is essential for democracy to thrive.

According to him, many politicians join the ruling party to gain access to government appointments, contracts, and political influence. However, he said he has chosen a different path and is comfortable remaining in the opposition.

Dickson noted that after the PDP lost power at the federal level in 2015, he was among the first opposition governors to experience the challenges that came with being outside the ruling party.

He argued that opposition parties should be encouraged because democracy cannot function properly without alternative voices.

He also alleged that some politicians join the ruling party to benefit from federal influence, manipulate election outcomes, and use security agencies to intimidate opponents.

“I am not that kind of politician,” Dickson said. “I have spent years in opposition politics, so being in the opposition does not scare me.”He maintained that his decision to leave the PDP and form the NDC was driven by his commitment to democratic principles and the need for a strong opposition in Nigeria’s political system.