From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
National Leader of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Seriake Dickson, has pushed back against what he described as “misguided and sponsored propaganda” by his longtime associate, Umar Ardo, insisting that the party’s registration followed due process and a valid court order.
Dickson, in a detailed statement released Monday night, expressed surprise at Ardo’s criticism of the NDC, noting that the two had maintained a longstanding political relationship. He said Ardo’s actions “speak to a lack of respect and loyalty to friendship,” particularly given his knowledge of the party’s origins and legal journey.
Providing a timeline, Dickson explained that the NDC’s registration process began as far back as 2017, long before Ardo contemplated registering a political party. He said the process was stalled after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), led by Mahmood Yakubu, suspended the registration of new parties.
According to him, the process resumed after INEC lifted the embargo last year, with the NDC listed among 171 political associations. However, the commission later declined the party’s application, citing similarities between its proposed two-finger logo and that of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Dickson said the party challenged the decision, maintaining that the logos were not similar and accusing INEC of denying it the opportunity to make adjustments. He disclosed that the NDC subsequently approached the court, which ruled in its favour.
“The court enforced our rights to freedom of association, deemed us registered and directed INEC to register us,” Dickson said, adding that the commission complied with the judgment by issuing a certificate of registration.
He emphasised that INEC did not appeal the ruling and that the window for any appeal had elapsed, arguing that no individual or group has the legal standing to challenge the party’s registration.
“The judgment has been accepted, implemented and obeyed. There is nothing to appeal anymore,” he stated.
Dickson further revealed that the party has since held its first National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, which was monitored by INEC officials following the mandatory notice, and that plans for congresses and primaries would be announced soon.
Addressing Ardo’s grievances, Dickson said he was aware of the challenges faced by Ardo’s political association, the ADA, particularly internal disputes among its promoters. He stressed that the NDC bears no responsibility for those setbacks.
He also pointed out that the NDC is not the only party registered through a court order, citing the case of the NDP, which he said followed a similar legal route to secure recognition from INEC.
“It is curious that Dr. Ardo, in his vituperations, said nothing about the NDP or other registered political parties,” Dickson added.
The former Bayelsa State governor said the NDC has continued to gain traction nationwide, with increasing registration from Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora. He noted that the party is attracting politicians across party lines and positioning itself as a platform for those seeking an alternative political movement.
Describing the NDC as an ideological party committed to “a new brand of politics of ideas and service,” Dickson said it remains open to Nigerians dissatisfied with current political developments.
He warned against the spread of misinformation, alleging that some political actors may be fueling negative narratives due to concerns over the party’s growing influence.
“Those who do not align with our vision are free to support any party or candidate of their choice. However, the spread of falsehoods and sponsored misinformation is unacceptable,” he said.
While refraining from directly questioning Ardo’s motives, Dickson maintained that such actions are harmful to efforts aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s opposition political space.
He concluded by expressing confidence in the NDC’s future, urging supporters to continue mobilising across the country.
Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Dickson said: “First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, and then you win.”
“The NDC has come to stay,” he declared.
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