By Nkechi Eze
The National Leader of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson, has formally received a wave of high-profile political figures into the party, describing their defection as a significant boost to the party’s ideological strength and national expansion drive.
Speaking at a National Executive Committee (NEC) gathering of the party, Dickson welcomed former federal lawmakers, party chieftains, and political stakeholders from across the country, noting that their decision to join the NDC was a reaffirmation of shared principles and commitment to national development.
He paid special tribute to Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, a former member of the House of Representatives, as well as Professor Muhammad Sani Yahaya, a former governorship candidate in Taraba State, commending their political pedigree and influence.
“You are welcome to a party you have always supported and belonged to. Today, we are only formalising that relationship,” Dickson stated.
Highlighting the strategic importance of grassroots engagement, the former Bayelsa State Governor urged the new entrants to deploy their experience and political networks in strengthening the party’s structures nationwide.
“As we welcome you, we expect you to contribute your wealth of experience, knowledge, and capacity to mobilise support for our progressive agenda and to support all candidates and policies of the party,” he said.
Dickson further emphasised that the NDC’s ambition to “salvage Nigeria” could only be realised through electoral victories at all levels, calling on members to return to their respective states and deepen party visibility.
“All politics is local. Go back, plant, nurture, and ensure that the seeds we sow today germinate during elections,” he added.
In his remarks, the National Chairman of the party, Moses Cleopas, underscored the importance of unity, discipline, and ideological alignment within the party, warning against internal divisions.
“Politics is a game of numbers, the more, the better but we must also understand that disagreement is part of the process. What matters is that we do not lose the opportunity to find common ground,” Cleopas said.
He advised new members to embrace humility and integrate into the party’s established culture, stressing that cohesion remained critical to the NDC’s long-term success.
“You are joining a family that is already established. Learn its core values, contribute meaningfully, and avoid the pitfalls that have weakened other political platforms,” he cautioned.
Also speaking, Professor Yahaya expressed confidence in the party’s leadership and direction, declaring his full allegiance to the NDC.
“Taraba is for me, and I am for the NDC. The day will come when you will see the strength of our supporters across wards, local governments, and the state,” he said.
On his part, Agbonayinma delivered an emotional address, lamenting Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges while expressing hope in the NDC as a vehicle for national transformation.
“Nigeria is bleeding, but there is hope. I have come to join this movement to rescue our country from corruption and mismanagement,” he stated.
Similarly, former National Vice Chairman (South) of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Babatunde Francis Alli, pledged loyalty and dedication to the party, describing the NDC as a platform driven by ideology and national purpose.
“I am here to serve and to support this vision. You can count on my loyalty, dedication, and commitment to building this movement,” he affirmed.
The event also witnessed the announcement of an interim appointment, with Tunde Ali named Deputy National Chairman (South), pending formal ratification by the NEC and subsequent confirmation at the party’s national convention.
The gathering marked a significant moment for the NDC as it continues to attract prominent political actors ahead of future electoral contests, positioning itself as a growing force within Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
