Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) founder and national leader, Seriake Dickson, has acknowledged the existence of internal tensions during the party’s recent primary elections across the country, describing the situation as a challenge inherent in a young political movement. Speaking in an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ programme on Wednesday, Dickson emphasized that while the crisis was real, the level of restraint shown by party members and aspirants prevented it from escalating. He noted that the Electoral Act, as currently structured, has contributed significantly to the turmoil, creating conditions that test even the most established parties.
Dickson pointed out that the NDC, being a relatively new political entity, could have faced a much more severe fallout had not its members demonstrated maturity and commitment to the party’s unity. He stressed that the crisis was not unique to the NDC, drawing comparisons to other major parties in Nigeria. “Look at the All Progressives Congress, APC. They have been in federal power since 2015 and currently have 33 governors, yet they still face their own primary election crises,” he stated. This, he argued, underscores the broader systemic issues affecting Nigeria’s electoral processes rather than pointing to a failure of the NDC alone.
He also referenced the Action Democratic Congress (ADC), highlighting that they too experienced significant disruptions during and after their primary elections. Dickson’s remarks suggest that primary election challenges are not isolated incidents but part of a wider pattern across Nigerian political parties, regardless of their age or influence. His comments reflect a call for a more structured and inclusive electoral framework that can accommodate diverse political aspirations without fracturing party unity.
Despite the challenges, Dickson expressed confidence in the NDC’s ability to navigate these difficulties, attributing the party’s resilience to the discipline and responsibility shown by its members. He praised the aspirants for their composure and urged continued adherence to party principles as they move forward. The NDC’s primary elections, held nationwide, were aimed at selecting candidates for the upcoming general elections, and Dickson’s comments come amid heightened political activity across the country.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2023 general elections, the NDC’s experience serves as a case study in how emerging parties can manage internal dynamics while striving for national relevance. Dickson’s acknowledgment of the crisis, coupled with his emphasis on restraint and unity, positions the party as one willing to confront its challenges head-on. The party’s ability to maintain cohesion in the face of electoral turbulence may influence its performance in future elections and shape its role in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
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