2027 Presidency: Seriake Dickson Says He Won’t Challenge Tinubu, Focuses on Building New Political Party

Former Bayelsa State governor and senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson, has dismissed speculation that he plans to challenge Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, saying his immediate focus is on building a new political platform capable of reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.

Dickson made the declaration while speaking to journalists at his Abuja residence shortly after confirming his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party and announcing his decision to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress, a newly emerging political party.

According to the senator, the current priority for him and other political actors involved in the movement is to strengthen the party’s structure nationwide rather than pursue individual political ambitions.

Building a National Political Alternative

Dickson explained that the goal of the political movement is to develop the Nigeria Democratic Congress into a credible national platform capable of attracting Nigerians from different political backgrounds.

“We are working towards taking over power at the centre, and it is achievable. Political parties are built by people, not merely by their names,” he said.

He argued that the political mood in the country suggests that a new political platform could gain significant support if it is built on credibility and strong leadership.

Reflecting on the outcome and tensions surrounding the 2023 Nigerian presidential election, Dickson said the election revealed deep frustration among many Nigerians over economic hardship and governance challenges.

“If you reflect on the dynamics of the 2023 elections, you will see the level of anger, hunger and frustration among Nigerians. With the right platform and credibility, anything is possible,” he added.

‘Presidential Ambition Not the Priority’

Addressing rumours that his move to the new party was part of a strategy to contest the presidency in 2027, Dickson firmly rejected the claim.

“Our focus right now is not about who will run for president. My colleagues and I are concentrating on building a credible political platform that Nigerians can identify with,” he said.

The lawmaker also downplayed the ongoing debate over zoning and political permutations ahead of the next presidential race, insisting that strengthening democratic institutions and party structures should take precedence.

“Politics is much broader than arguments about zoning or which region should produce the next president,” he said. “Our priority is to build a party first. We do not want to repeat the mistakes other parties have made.”

Invitation to Politicians Nationwide

Dickson used the opportunity to invite politicians from across the country to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress, describing the party as an open platform for aspirants seeking various elective positions.

“We are building a party that welcomes everyone — those aspiring to become president, governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, state legislators, as well as chairmanship and councillorship candidates,” he said.

Responding to concerns that members of the ruling party might attempt to infiltrate the platform, he maintained that the party remains open but capable of handling internal challenges if they arise.

“With the quality of people aligning with us nationwide, the NDC will surprise many. We believe we can win elections in several parts of the country,” Dickson added.

Clarifying Party Identity

The senator also clarified that the Nigeria Democratic Congress should not be confused with the former Niger Delta Congress, emphasising that the new political movement is designed as a national platform rather than a regional organisation.

“I am a pan-Nigerian politician. The Niger Delta Congress of the past is completely different from this newly registered Nigeria Democratic Congress,” he said.

Criticism of PDP Leadership

Dickson’s comments come shortly after he formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party, citing deep internal divisions and leadership failures.

While acknowledging his emotional attachment to the party, he argued that internal conflicts had significantly weakened its national influence.

“The governors and other party leaders must accept responsibility for the avoidable and self-inflicted damage that has weakened the PDP,” he said.

He also warned against the possibility of Nigeria drifting toward a one-party system, insisting that the country’s political diversity makes such a scenario unrealistic.

“Nigeria cannot function as a one-party state. Anyone advocating for that idea is pursuing an illusion,” Dickson warned.