The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has denied allegations that its National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, is secretly working with the All Progressives Congress (APC) against the party's 2027 presidential ticket. The party described the claims as false, malicious, and without foundation. NDC's National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, made the statement in Abuja, emphasizing Dickson's commitment to the party and its presidential ticket.
The allegations surfaced as the NDC strengthens its structures ahead of the 2027 general elections. Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso have emerged as the party's presidential and vice-presidential candidates. Dickson has been actively involved in building a national political structure around the ticket, holding meetings with Obi, Kwankwaso, and other senior party members to discuss campaign strategies.
In August, Dickson hosted Obi and Kwankwaso at a high-level meeting to discuss preparations for the 2027 campaign and the party's political strategy. He later met with them again, along with other party leaders, to discuss the composition of the presidential campaign council. The NDC stated that consultations over the campaign council had reached an advanced stage, with Obi and Kwankwaso involved in nominating principal officers.
Director argued that Dickson's political record does not support the allegation of a deal with the APC. Dickson had opportunities to join the ruling party but chose to remain with the opposition platform and contribute to its development. The former governor's record, according to Director, shows his commitment to the NDC and its ideals.
The NDC spokesman also referred to Dickson's time in the Senate, where he consistently took positions on national issues that opposed the policies of the present administration. Director accused unnamed political opponents of attempting to cause confusion within the party as preparations for the election gather momentum.
The allegations come amid growing political activities of the NDC and its presidential ticket. The party has had to address questions surrounding its relationship with support groups backing Obi and Kwankwaso. In September, Dickson warned that support groups could not establish parallel structures for the party.
Despite disagreements, Dickson has maintained that the NDC's priority is preparing for the 2027 election. He has called on party members to avoid internal disputes and concentrate on the election. The NDC has continued to expand its electoral structure, with Kwankwaso coordinating the submission of the party's candidates for the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Key points
- The NDC has denied allegations of a secret deal between Senator Seriake Dickson and the APC.
- Dickson's commitment to the NDC and its presidential ticket has been emphasized by the party.
- The allegations are seen as attempts by opponents to cause confusion within the party.
