Sen. Dickson Defends NDC Registration, Dismisses Irregularities Allegations

National Leader of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, Senator Seriake Dickson, has defended the legitimacy of the party’s registration, rejecting allegations of irregularities and urging Nigerians to disregard what he described as propaganda.

In a post on X on Monday, Dickson said the party’s registration process dates back to 2017, contrary to claims that it recently secured recognition without due procedure.

According to him, the Independent National Electoral Commission had initially approved the process before it was halted, adding that the application was later updated when registration resumed.

His comments followed allegations by Umar Ardo, who accused the electoral body of unlawfully registering the NDC in violation of constitutional provisions and its own guidelines.

Ardo claimed that while other groups met the requirements, they were overlooked, whereas the NDC was allegedly recognised under questionable circumstances.

Dickson, however, dismissed the claims, insisting that due process was followed and warning against misinformation.

“With my experience in politics, I am fully aware that an ambitious project of this nature will attract distractions—rumours, gossip, propaganda, and even blackmail,” he said.

The development comes amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, following the defection of key opposition figures, including Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to the NDC.

Dickson described their entry into the party as part of a broader coalition-building effort aimed at creating a strong ideological platform. He added that the party seeks to build a durable political institution comparable to established global parties.

He also highlighted the NDC’s focus on youth and women, describing it as a platform designed to promote inclusion, mentorship, and active political participation.

Dickson called on Nigerians to join the party, register, and contest elections as part of efforts to “reclaim and rebuild” the country.