2027: Dickson welcomes Peter Obi, Kwankwaso to NDC

…. as leaders rally support for new political movement

The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Seriake Dickson, on Sunday formally received former presidential candidates Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso into the party, describing their entry as a major boost to what he called Nigeria’s fastest-growing and most stable political platform.

The reception, held at Dickson’s residence in Guzape, Abuja, drew party leaders, members of the National Working Committee and supporters from across the country, as the NDC continues efforts to consolidate its base ahead of future elections.

Addressing the gathering, Dickson said the NDC, though relatively young, had demonstrated resilience and unity in a political environment often marked by factional disputes and litigation.

He emphasised that the party remains free of internal crises, positioning it as a credible alternative for Nigerians seeking stability and purposeful leadership.

“On behalf of the leadership and members of our party across the country, I warmly welcome you to the Nigeria Democratic Congress. We are a young political family, but one prepared to punch above its weight. We are proud to be a party without factions or litigation, and committed to service for all Nigerians, especially women and youth,” Dickson said.

The former Bayelsa State governor described Obi and Kwankwaso as two of the biggest political brands in the country, noting that their decision to align with the NDC reflects growing public confidence in the party’s vision.

“We know what you are bringing on board, and Nigerians also know. There will be time for campaigns and political processes, but for now, we welcome you as part of this family,” he added.

Dickson also acknowledged the growing support base of the party, noting that Nigerians across regions have continued to rally behind its ideals in recent months.

In his remarks, Kwankwaso said the decision to join the NDC followed extensive consultations and alignment of ideological positions with the party leadership.

He noted that discussions with Dickson and other leaders revealed shared priorities in key areas such as education, women empowerment, national unity and security.

“We came together with our team to consult and align our ideas and blueprint with that of the party,” Kwankwaso said.

“We discovered that we are on the same page, especially on issues of education, empowerment of women and youth, security, and building a peaceful and united Nigeria.”

The former Kano State governor also used the opportunity to call on Nigerians, including those in the diaspora, to register with the party ahead of the close of its membership registration window.

“With the party set to submit its register soon, I urge all Nigerians who believe in this movement to register immediately. We have decided to formally join today, and we encourage others to do the same,” he said.

Peter Obi, in his address, reiterated his commitment to building what he described as a peaceful, united and prosperous Nigeria, stressing that the focus of the new alliance would be on tackling poverty, improving healthcare and strengthening education.

“We are here to be part of a family that will work hard to build a Nigeria that works for everyone. We want to create a country where a child of nobody can become somebody without knowing anybody,” Obi said.

Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election under a different party, alleged that internal crises and legal disputes within political parties have hindered progress and forced political realignments.

He appealed to the current administration and the judiciary to ensure a stable democratic environment by discouraging unnecessary litigation in party affairs.

“For the sake of democracy, we plead that there should be no interference that leads to crises and endless court cases in political parties. We want to focus on building the country, not fighting ourselves in court,” he said.

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He further called on party members to avoid internal disputes, urging them instead to concentrate on addressing pressing national challenges such as insecurity, hunger and economic hardship.

“We want to spend our time dealing with issues affecting ordinary Nigerians, ensuring security, reviving agriculture, and making sure families can feed themselves. That is the real task before us,” Obi added.

The former Anambra State governor painted a grim picture of the country’s current state, citing insecurity and economic difficulties as major concerns. He stressed the need for urgent reforms to restore confidence and improve living conditions for citizens.