The atmosphere at the NUJ Building in Abuja on Friday was charged with emotion, conviction, and renewed political energy as aspirants of the Nigeria Democratic Congress converged for a high-profile National Press Conference themed “Rescue Nigeria: Consolidating Hope, Building a New Beginning.”
The event, powered by the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy, brought together party stakeholders, civil society organisations, media representatives, and supporters from across the country in what speakers described as “a national awakening” and “a thunderous call to conscience.”
Addressing the gathering Mal Abdullahi Gambari noted with fiery passion and strong emotional appeal, the aspirants declared that Nigeria was at a critical crossroads, insisting that the country could no longer continue on the path of insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and institutional collapse.
Speaking on behalf of the aspirants, Mr Mazi Nnamdi Dickson Iroegbu lamented the worsening living conditions confronting ordinary Nigerians, painting a grim picture of families crushed by inflation, unemployed graduates roaming the streets, abandoned farmlands due to insecurity, and widespread frustration among youths and women. He further assured Nigerians that the 11th Assembly will live up to expectations in carrying out legislative duties unlike the current rubber stamp 10th Assembly.
“This is not just another press conference. This is a national awakening. This is the moment we draw a line in the sand and declare that enough is enough,” the speaker thundered before an applauding audience.
The aspirants maintained that Nigerians had not surrendered despite the nation’s mounting challenges, insisting that hope for a better country remained alive among the people.
“Our hope is not dead. It is alive, angry, and rising like a mighty tide ready to sweep away failure and mediocrity,” the speaker declared.
Special tribute was paid to Henry Seriake Dickson, described as the visionary founder and National Leader of the NDC. The conference praised his courage and persistence in establishing the party despite political and legal obstacles.
According to the speakers, Senator Dickson’s vision has provided a platform capable of uniting progressive Nigerians determined to build a new political order anchored on justice, competence, transparency, and national unity.
Mr Akor Christian Oche clarified the quite essential role COPDEM played in driving opposition voice in Nigeria and how COPDEM will help propel NDC into a grassroots party as they achieved in ADC. The conference also reaffirmed the strategic partnership between the NDC and COPDEM, with participants describing the alliance as a growing movement determined to dismantle politics driven by ethnicity, religion, and personal interest.
The aspirants stressed that their mission was not “politics as usual” but a determined effort to rescue the nation from bad governance and restore public confidence in democracy.
They advocated for a Nigeria where every vote counts, where women and youths are given meaningful opportunities, where security agencies protect lives and property, and where children from disadvantaged communities can aspire to greatness without limitations.
The gathering further called on civil society groups, grassroots organisations, and the media to intensify mobilisation and continue holding leaders accountable.
“To the Nigerian people: do not lose hope. The dawn is near,” the speaker said, while urging citizens to reject division, violence, and hatred in favour of unity, discipline, and courageous action.
The event ended with a resounding declaration that “Nigeria will be OK,” followed by loud cheers from participants who vowed to continue mobilising citizens toward what they described as “a new beginning for the nation.”
The conference concluded with an interactive session where aspirants fielded questions from journalists and reaffirmed their commitment to democratic ideals, electoral accountability, and people-oriented leadership.
