By Peter Omopo
Senator Seriake Dickson, representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District, has criticised Governor Douye Diri over his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), reaffirming his own loyalty to the PDP and warning against the dangers of a “one-party state” in Nigeria.
Speaking to journalists after plenary on Wednesday, the former Bayelsa governor said he remained “a soldier of democracy” and expressed his continued commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s multiparty political system.
“I am where I have always been,” Dickson declared. “I don’t believe Nigeria should become a one-party state. As a democrat, I understand the ups and downs of the process, but I remain constant and steadfast in the PDP.”
Senator Dickson, who governed Bayelsa State from 2012 to 2020, also took a swipe at some PDP governors, including Governor Diri, accusing them of failing to provide the leadership needed to stabilise the party before defecting to the ruling APC.
“Some of those now leaving were part of the internal challenges that weakened our great party,” he said, adding that their departures would not deter loyal members from rebuilding the PDP.
Governor Douye Diri announced his resignation from the PDP on Wednesday at the Bayelsa State Government House, confirming widespread speculation about his move to the APC. His defection came barely 24 hours after Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah also dumped the PDP for the ruling party.
Dickson, however, insisted that the PDP remained the most viable platform for democratic growth and inclusivity in Nigeria, urging party faithful to stay committed despite the recent wave of defections.
“The PDP has faced trials before and survived,” he said. “We will rebuild, reposition, and remain a strong voice for Nigerians who believe in democracy and good governance.”
