2027: NDC receives defectors from ADC, SDP, LP, as Dickson warns against interference in opposition

Amid the defections, Dickson expressed concern over developments within the opposition space, particularly the crisis in the ADC, and warned against alleged interference by state institutions in party affairs.

His remarks followed a decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to delete the names of a factional ADC leadership led by David Mark from its portal and suspend further dealings with all groups within the party pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

INEC, through its National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, said the action was taken to avoid prejudicing ongoing judicial proceedings.

Dickson, however, cautioned that even the perception of interference could erode public trust in democratic institutions.

“A threat to one opposition party is a threat to all opposition parties. We stand united to defend Nigeria’s multi-party democracy,” he said.

He stressed that political parties must be allowed to resolve their internal disputes without external involvement.

“If there are issues in a political party, that is not the duty of the government. Parties should be allowed to sort themselves out without the involvement of state institutions,” he said.

The former governor urged INEC to maintain strict neutrality, noting that its credibility depends not only on its actions but also on public perception.

“INEC must not only be impartial—it must be seen to be impartial. Its image must be above board,” he said, warning that any impression of pressure, inducement, or manipulation could trigger a crisis of confidence.

Providing further insight into the NDC situation, Dickson said the party recently held its first National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, which was monitored by INEC without objections.

He noted that the party had previously taken INEC to court over registration issues and that the commission complied with the court’s judgment.

He added that key decisions and timelines were reached at the NEC meeting, with details, including the schedule for congresses, to be announced by the National Secretary and the National Working Committee.

Dickson explained that as National Leader, he does not handle the day-to-day administration of the ADC, leaving such responsibilities to the party’s appropriate organs.

On the state of Nigeria’s democracy, he warned against any drift toward a one-party system, stressing that the country’s political history is rooted in tolerance and respect for opposition.

He recalled that past administrations, including those of Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, and Goodluck Jonathan, upheld multi-party democracy and allowed opposition parties to thrive.

“Leadership is not about doing whatever you can do. It is about restraint in the exercise of power for the public good and to protect our constitutional democracy,” he said.

He also urged government institutions, including the judiciary and security agencies, to remain neutral and allow political parties to manage their internal affairs.

Dickson further encouraged opposition parties to explore legitimate avenues for collaboration, citing past alliances such as the cooperation between the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and the All Peoples Party (APP) during the 1998 transition.

While expressing solidarity with the ADC, he emphasised the need for the party to resolve its internal disputes, noting that a stable opposition is critical to national stability.

He reiterated that Nigeria requires both a strong ruling party and vibrant opposition parties for democracy to thrive, warning that both real and perceived interference in party affairs could undermine confidence in key institutions ahead of future elections.