By CHARLES CHIJIOKE
Former governor of Bayelsa state Senator Seriake Dickson on Tuesday hosted members of the House of Representatives who recently defected to the National Democratic Congress (NDC), in a political gathering that further signalled intensifying opposition realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The lawmakers visited the party leadership at the NDC secretariat in Abuja, where they were received alongside key opposition figures including former Kano State governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
According to senator Seriake Dickson, the defecting lawmakers demonstrated loyalty to the party and to their political leadership by joining the NDC.
“I thank them for their support for the party and for the loyalty they demonstrated in following their leader to the NDC. They are on the right course, and the NDC remains committed to building a united and democratic Nigeria for all,” he stated.
Dickson said the lawmakers were urged to remain committed to democratic ideals and resist any attempt to weaken Nigeria’s multiparty system.
“I urged them to continue to uphold the democratic rights of the Nigerian people and to resist every attempt to entrench a one-party state in our country,” he said.
The former governor added that the lawmakers should continue working closely with their constituents and party leaders in service to Nigerians.
The meeting also witnessed fresh defections from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including former senator representing Gombe South, Col. Amos Bulus (Rtd), and his supporters.
In a similar move, Prince Yahaya Audu led a delegation from Kogi State into the NDC fold, with Peter Obi joining other party leaders to formally welcome the new entrants.
“It was a pleasure for His Excellency Peter Obi to join me in welcoming Col. Bulus, Prince Audu, and their team members into the NDC family,” Dickson noted.
The NDC leadership also acknowledged the donation of a vehicle by the Delta State chapter of the party, describing it as part of growing grassroots support for the movement.
Dickson stressed that the party was not financed by government resources or controlled by any single individual.
“The NDC is not funded by any single individual or by any government. Our party is sustained by the sacrifice, commitment, and contributions of members and supporters who believe in our vision for a better Nigeria,” he said.
He further appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the party through donations and active participation.
The latest wave of defections and the joint appearance of Atiku, Obi and Kwankwaso are expected to deepen political conversations around a possible opposition coalition ahead of 2027.
Analysts say the growing cooperation among major opposition figures could reshape the political landscape and pose a stronger challenge to the APC if sustained. However, observers also note that maintaining unity among influential political blocs may remain one of the biggest hurdles for the emerging alliance.
