Dickson, Agbedi set for showdown in Bayelsa West senatorial race
Former Governor Seriake Dickson, a chieftain of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), and Fred Agbedi, a four-term member of the House of Representatives and senatorial asparant from the platform of the
Former Governor Seriake Dickson, a chieftain of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), and Fred Agbedi, a four-term member of the House of Representatives and senatorial asparant from the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), are squaring up for the Bayelsa West contest. The race is taking place amid tensions between Sagbama and Ekeremor over a disputed power-sharing arrangement. Correspondent OKUNGBOWA AIWERIE reports
With only legislative elections scheduled in Bayelsa State in 2027, attention has shifted to the Bayelsa West Senatorial District, where a looming political contest is already stirring tension. The absence of a governorship race has further heightened focus on the Senate seat, setting the stage for what could become a major political showdown.
At the centre of the unfolding crisis is a long-standing “gentleman’s agreement” between the two dominant clans in the district—Sagbama and Ekeremor. The arrangement, though unwritten, has traditionally guided the rotation of political offices to ensure equity and peaceful coexistence.
However, that understanding is now under strain.
Political actors from both clans are positioning themselves to produce the next senator, raising concerns that the zoning balance may be disrupted. The situation has been further complicated by speculation surrounding the intentions of incumbent Senator Seriake Dickson and the declared ambition of Fred Agbedi.
Zoning dispute
Historically, the zoning arrangement ensured that power alternated between Sagbama and Ekeremor, with stakeholders expecting fairness in the distribution of key positions. Many believe this balance was upset in 2020 when Dickson, after completing his tenure as governor, moved to the Senate.
At the time, Agbedi was reportedly persuaded to step down to allow Dickson to complete the tenure of the late Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who had vacated the Senate seat to pursue the governorship.
Now, with rumours that Dickson may seek another term and Agbedi formally declaring his interest, the issue of zoning has resurfaced as a major point of contention.
Agbedi declares ambition
Fred Agbedi, a four-term member of the House of Representatives representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency, has confirmed he will contest for the Senate in 2027. He also announced he will not seek re-election to the House.
“I have given my best in the House of Representatives. Every stage in leadership calls for growth and greater responsibility. I am therefore setting my sights on the Senate to represent the people of Bayelsa West Senatorial District,” he said.
Agbedi is widely regarded as a grassroots politician with strong support, especially among youths and women, due to his empowerment programmes over the years. His long political career dates back to the aborted Third Republic, when he was elected under the NRC.
His legislative record and consistent presence in the constituency have strengthened his profile. Supporters also point to the demographic advantage of Ekeremor, where he hails, as a key factor in his favour.
Recent estimates suggest Ekeremor has a significantly larger population than Sagbama, which could influence voting patterns. This, combined with growing calls for equity, places Agbedi in a strong position—provided he secures his party’s ticket.
However, his chances remain tied to the internal dynamics of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which continues to grapple with internal challenges.
Concerns over zoning imbalance
Several stakeholders have expressed concern that the zoning arrangement now appears skewed in favour of Sagbama. This perception has fueled agitation, particularly among groups advocating a return to the established rotation.
One such group, the South South Reawakening Group (SSRG), has openly criticised Senator Dickson. The group accused him of undermining the zoning principle and pursuing personal political interests.
At a press briefing in Yenagoa, the group’s convener, Joseph Ambakederimo, alleged that Dickson’s reported third-term ambition violates the unwritten agreement in the district.
He argued that the arrangement allows incumbents limited tenure and warned that another bid by Dickson would erode trust between the clans. He urged the senator to step aside in the interest of fairness and stability.
The group also linked Dickson’s political moves to the formation of a new party, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), which it described as unnecessary and divisive.
New party and third-term bid
The emergence of the NDC has added another layer to the political equation. Critics claim the party was formed to advance Dickson’s political ambitions, particularly a possible return to the Senate.
Ambakederimo described the party as “dead on arrival,” arguing that it lacks justification and could disrupt the state’s political stability.
However, the NDC has dismissed these claims.
The party’s publicity secretary in Bayelsa, Prince Mac Ake, said it was premature to link the party’s formation to any individual ambition. He noted that Dickson had not informed the party of any plan to seek re-election.
“Our national leader has not told us as a party that he is seeking re-election. But if he chooses to do so, there is no legal barrier. The issue of zoning is not recognised by law,” he said.
The Dickson factor
Although Senator Dickson has not publicly declared his intention, he remains a central figure in the unfolding contest. A former governor and experienced politician, he commands influence, particularly in Sagbama.
His recent defection to the NDC and subsequent meetings with political actors across the state suggest ongoing realignment efforts. Some politicians, especially those who feel sidelined, have expressed support for the new party.
With party structures gradually taking shape, the NDC appears to be positioning itself as an alternative platform ahead of 2027.
Still, opinions about Dickson remain divided.
A public affairs analyst, Eziukwu Damian, argued that the former governor’s popularity may not be as strong as portrayed. He pointed to past controversies, including governance decisions during Dickson’s tenure, as factors that could affect voter perception.
“Senator Dickson is a cat with nine lives. He is a strong politician, but many people are tired of him. The 2027 election will test his real strength if he decides to contest,” he said.
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Possible APC factor
The All Progressives Congress (APC) role could also shape the election outcome. Observers note that if the APC fields a candidate from Ekeremor, it could split the district vote.
Such a scenario may benefit Dickson, especially if he retains strong support in Sagbama. A divided opposition could make it easier for him to secure victory with a consolidated voting base.
An unfolding contest
As 2027 approaches, the Bayelsa West senatorial race is shaping up to be a contest defined by zoning tensions, party rivalry, and shifting alliances.
The key question remains whether political actors will respect the long-standing zoning arrangement or prioritise individual ambition.
With Agbedi’s declaration, uncertainty over Dickson’s next move, and the emergence of a new political platform, the stage is set for a closely watched battle that could redefine the district’s political balance.
