The leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Seriake Dickson, has called for unity and reconciliation within the party following concerns raised over recent primary elections and internal disagreements ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Thursday, Dickson emphasized the need for members to remain focused on the party’s broader objective of securing victory in the January 2027 presidential election. He urged party stakeholders to embrace dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation despite differing opinions that have emerged in recent weeks.
The former Bayelsa State governor highlighted what he described as a significant sacrifice made for the growth of the party when the NDC welcomed Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as its presidential and vice-presidential candidates on May 30. According to Dickson, both politicians were offered the party’s ticket without being subjected to a competitive nomination process or required to make any financial payments for the positions.
Dickson noted that his decision to step aside from the presidential race was made in the interest of party unity and national development. Although he maintained that he possessed the credentials, experience, and qualifications necessary to contest for the nation’s highest office, he chose instead to support a broader coalition capable of strengthening the party’s electoral chances.
The NDC, founded by Dickson in February 2026, has experienced rapid growth in a relatively short period, attracting politicians, supporters, and stakeholders from different political backgrounds. While the expansion has boosted the party’s national profile, it has also created challenges related to internal coordination and expectations among members.
Addressing complaints arising from recent primaries, Dickson acknowledged that some members felt dissatisfied with aspects of the candidate selection process. However, he argued that such concerns are common in growing political organizations and should not be allowed to undermine the party’s collective mission.
According to him, the focus should remain on building a strong political platform capable of providing Nigerians with an alternative vision for governance. He stressed that disagreements should be resolved through constructive engagement rather than public disputes that could weaken the party’s position ahead of the election season.
To address grievances and foster reconciliation, Dickson announced the establishment of a committee tasked with engaging aggrieved members and resolving outstanding issues. The committee is expected to meet with party stakeholders across different regions and recommend measures aimed at strengthening unity within the organization.
He expressed confidence that the reconciliation effort would help restore trust among members while ensuring that all voices are heard. The party leader also urged supporters to avoid inflammatory rhetoric on social media, where debates surrounding the NDC’s internal affairs have generated mixed reactions in recent days.
Political analysts have observed that the emergence of Obi and Kwankwaso on a joint ticket has attracted considerable public attention, given their influence among different voter groups across the country. Their selection has also fueled discussions about the NDC’s strategy for challenging more established political parties in the upcoming election.
Despite the criticism from some quarters, Dickson maintained that offering the presidential and vice-presidential tickets without a contest demonstrated the party’s commitment to inclusiveness and strategic coalition-building. He argued that the move was designed to strengthen the NDC’s electoral prospects and create a united front capable of competing effectively on the national stage.
As preparations for the 2027 elections intensify, the NDC leadership believes party cohesion will be crucial to achieving its political objectives. Dickson reiterated that no individual ambition should take precedence over the collective interest of the party and the aspirations of Nigerians seeking change.
With the reconciliation committee set to begin its work and party leaders continuing consultations nationwide, the NDC hopes to overcome internal divisions and present a united platform ahead of the January 2027 polls. Dickson’s message was clear: unity, respect, and shared purpose remain essential ingredients for electoral success.
