Senator Seriake Dickson, representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District, clarified he has no immediate plans to contest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In the 2027 presidential election, the former Bayelsa governor emphasized focusing on current legislative duties and state development priorities.
According to reports, Dickson stated that his current focus is on building a credible political platform rather than pursuing personal ambition.
Dickson Tells Journalists: No 2027 Run at Abuja Presser
Former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson disclosed this to journalists on the sidelines of a press conference at his Abuja residence.
The candid address addressed speculation, providing clarity amid ongoing political discussions about the 2027 presidential race.
The briefing followed his recent resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and his decision to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Dickson: Priority is Building New Party as National Force
According to him, his immediate priority, alongside other political stakeholders, is to strengthen the new party into a viable national platform.
“We are actually aiming to take over power at the centre. And it is possible. It’s human beings that made up a party. It’s not the name,” he said.
Dickson dismissed suggestions that his move to the NDC was part of a plan to challenge Tinubu in the 2027 presidential race.
He insisted that the party is currently focused on building a solid foundation rather than discussing presidential ambitions.
“You also talked about the presidential race. Let me tell you right away.
That’s not our focus. My colleagues and I are working to build a credible platform to offer to Nigeria and attract as many people as possible,” he said.
Lawmaker Downplays 2027 Zoning, Ticket Debate
The lawmaker also played down the ongoing national debate on zoning and presidential ticket permutations ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to him, political actors should focus first on strengthening political institutions and parties.
“All argument is about who runs, who doesn’t and which region comes first.
Let’s put the party first. When it gets to that time, things will sort themselves out.
“But I am not, for now, looking at that, even though I am eminently qualified,” he said.
Dickson Urges Nationwide Politicians to Join NDC Platform
Dickson called on politicians across the country to join the NDC, saying the party aims to become a broad-based national platform.
“We want to build a party.
We invite all with presidential, governorship, senatorial, House, assembly, chairmanship, councillorship ambitions to join our platform.
Come to the Nigeria Democratic Congress. With NDC, the game has changed,” he said.
Dickson Addresses Fears of APC Infiltration in New Platform
He dismissed fears of internal sabotage, stressing robust safeguards and commitment to a secure, unified party structure.
And he also affirmed the party stays open to all Nigerians, promoting inclusivity regardless of current affiliations or backgrounds.
He said: “We are open for all. If any situation arises, we’ll know how to handle it. But that’s not the least of our worries. We want to attract good people all over this country.”
Dickson also clarified that people should not confuse the new party with the defunct Niger Delta Congress.
He designed the newly registered NDC as a national political platform.
