Senator Seriake Dickson, who represents Bayelsa West in the National Assembly, on Thursday announced that he has left the Peoples Democratic Party and joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress.
The announcement was made during a media briefing held in Abuja, where the former Bayelsa State governor explained the reasons behind his decision.
Dickson said his move followed ongoing disagreements within the Peoples Democratic Party which, according to him, had continued to weaken the party.
He explained that the internal conflicts had created divisions that made it difficult for many members to remain comfortable within the party.
The lawmaker also stated that the disputes within the party leadership had affected the party’s ability to speak strongly on national matters.
According to him, the crisis within the party structure had reduced its strength and influence in the country’s political space.
Dickson said the situation within the PDP led him to search for a different political platform.
He therefore decided to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress, a political party that was recently registered by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
He said the new party has the potential to serve as a strong opposition platform in the country. According to him, the Nigeria Democratic Congress could provide Nigerians with another political option as the country prepares for future elections.
Dickson also called on Nigerians who are interested in political change to consider joining the new party.
He encouraged citizens across the country to identify with the Nigeria Democratic Congress and register as members as part of efforts to build a stronger political alternative.
The senator’s defection adds to the list of political movements being recorded among politicians as parties continue to reposition ahead of future political contests in Nigeria.