By Francis Wilfred
Former Governor of Bayelsa State and current Senator representing Bayelsa West, Henry Seriake Dickson, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the newly registered Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Senator Dickson announced his exit on Thursday during a media briefing in Abuja, citing the PDP’s protracted internal crises and leadership struggles as the primary reasons for his departure.
“The persistent internal crisis in the PDP has created deep divisions, weakening the umbrella and making it increasingly difficult for many members, including myself, to continue to function effectively within the party,” Dickson stated.
A Strategic Move for Bayelsa West
The Senator revealed that his decision followed extensive consultations with political associates, supporters, and key stakeholders across the Bayelsa West Senatorial District.
Dickson has been a dominant figure in Bayelsa politics for nearly two decades, having served as:
- Member of the House of Representatives: 2007–2012
- Governor of Bayelsa State: 2012–2020
- Senator of the Federal Republic: 2020–Present
He assured his constituents that the switch in party platform would not diminish his commitment to effective representation. His focus, he maintained, remains on promoting regional development, strengthening democratic institutions, and advancing the specific interests of the Niger Delta.
The Rise of the NDC
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) is one of the newest entrants into the country’s political landscape, having been officially registered by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in February 2026.
Dickson expressed optimism that the NDC would provide a “credible alternative” capable of addressing national challenges and deepening democratic governance. Political observers suggest that Dickson’s defection is a significant blow to the PDP’s influence in the South-South region and could trigger further realignments as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
