Former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson, has reaffirmed his commitment to defending Nigeria’s multi-party democracy, declaring that no amount of intimidation, political persecution or propaganda would deter him from pursuing what he described as the collective struggle to rescue the nation’s democratic values.
In a lengthy message of appreciation to his supporters, Dickson expressed gratitude to the people of Bayelsa West, Bayelsa State, the Ijaw Nation and Nigerians at home and abroad for their steadfast support, solidarity and prayers throughout what he called his political journey to strengthen the country’s opposition.
The senator said that for the past eight months he had remained away from home while focusing on building the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which he described as “the biggest national opposition party” in Nigeria.
He credited the party’s rapid growth to the commitment of its members, candidates and political partners, particularly the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
“I thank God Almighty for His grace and strength. I also thank our party officers at every level and Nigerians across political divides for their confidence, trust and unwavering support,” Dickson said.
He maintained that Nigeria’s democracy must be protected, insisting that the survival of a vibrant multi-party system was essential to the country’s future.
According to him, ongoing legal battles and what he termed “contrived anti-democratic shenanigans” would ultimately fail, expressing confidence that the judiciary would uphold the rule of law and resist attempts to undermine democratic institutions.
The former governor also accused unnamed political figures whom he said he had helped to attain positions of authority of turning against him by allegedly weaponising state institutions, removing political opponents from office, victimising innocent citizens and spreading propaganda.
Despite what he described as nearly seven years of sustained persecution against him, his family and supporters, Dickson said the loyalty of his followers had remained unshaken.
He urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to embrace politics driven by ideas, conviction and principles rather than personal gain, appointments or what he called “stomach infrastructure.”
He said the enduring legacy he hoped to leave behind was a generation courageous enough to reject injustice, defend truth and demand accountability from leaders.
Dickson announced plans to return to Bayelsa in the coming weeks alongside the National Chairman of the NDC, Senator Moses Cleopas, to personally appreciate party members and supporters across the state.
He called on citizens to reject violence and intimidation, urging them instead to participate actively in peaceful democratic processes and protect the sanctity of their votes.
The senator warned that politicians who relied on intimidation, abuse of state institutions and violence would ultimately be rejected by the electorate.
Reflecting on his political career, Dickson said he had weathered nearly two decades of investigations, allegations, political conspiracies and intimidation, yet continued to emerge stronger.
He argued that despite governing Bayelsa during a period marked by severe economic recession, his administration recorded lasting achievements across critical sectors and laid a solid foundation for the state’s development.
“I have seen it all and survived it all. The God who has stood by me has not abandoned me. He remains on His throne, watching and judging the actions of all men,” he declared.
Dickson concluded by praying for God’s continued blessings upon the NDC, Bayelsa State and Nigeria, while expressing confidence that justice, democracy and the will of the people would ultimately prevail.
