By Israel Adamu, Jos
Former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has dismissed reports alleging that he has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing them as false and misleading.The clarification came on Friday through a statement issued by his media aide, Ajiri Daniels, in response to media reports suggesting that the lawmaker had switched political allegiance. According to the statement, Senator Dickson remains a committed member of the PDP and has not joined any other political party.Addressing the speculation, the senator explained that he is currently observing a period of mourning following the death of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
As a mark of respect, he said he deliberately stepped back from active political engagements during this period.The statement noted that Senator Dickson has been receiving condolence visits from friends, political associates, party leaders, and well-wishers from across the country. These visits, it said, cut across individuals from different political parties and various sectors of society.According to the senator, the presence of visitors from diverse political backgrounds may have been misinterpreted by some observers as evidence of political realignment. He stressed that such assumptions were unfounded and did not reflect his current political position.
While reaffirming his membership of the PDP, Senator Dickson acknowledged that he is keenly monitoring political developments at the national level. He stated that after the burial rites, he intends to consult widely with friends, political allies, and stakeholders across the country before taking any decision regarding his political future.The statement emphasized that any decision taken after these consultations would be formally communicated through appropriate and verified channels. Until then, the senator said he remains a key stakeholder and leader within the PDP.Senator Dickson also expressed hope that the PDP would address its internal challenges and reposition itself, noting the party’s historical role and contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development.
He urged members of the public, party faithful, and his supporters to discountenance the defection reports, describing them as fake news deliberately circulated to mislead the public and create unnecessary political tension.The senator further advised Nigerians to rely solely on information released through his official and verified communication platforms, warning against speculation and unverified reports circulating on social and traditional media.
