Dickson slams proposed double registration bill, alleges plot to intimidate opposition

The National Leader and Founder of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has criticised moves by the House of Representatives to criminalise double party registration, describing the proposal as a calculated attempt to stifle opposition parties.

Dickson made the remarks while addressing journalists shortly after announcing the commencement of the NDC’s digital membership registration drive, positioning the new party as a credible alternative to Nigeria’s ruling political establishment.

He argued that any attempt to penalise Nigerians for belonging to multiple political parties would violate the constitutional right to freedom of association. According to him, citizens retain the right to join and exit political parties at will without fear of legal consequences.

“The fact that someone is registered in a party today does not stop them from resigning and joining another tomorrow,” Dickson said, insisting that such political mobility is fundamental to democracy.

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The former Bayelsa State governor alleged that the proposed legislation is part of a broader strategy aimed at intimidating emerging political platforms, particularly newer parties like the NDC. He maintained that the bill, which is still under consideration, lacks merit and should not be supported.

Dickson called on Nigerians across polling units, wards, local governments, and states to mobilise democratically and express their dissatisfaction with current governance, citing widespread hardship and public frustration.

He said the NDC is not focused on a show of strength but on building a viable political platform capable of challenging the ruling party through democratic means. He added that the party’s growth would depend on grassroots participation and the voluntary support of citizens.

Highlighting the party’s digital registration initiative, Dickson noted that prospective members are expected to sign up independently by providing personal details, including their National Identification Number (NIN), stressing that the party would not engage in inducement or voter card-buying practices.

“We are not paying or inducing anyone. Genuine members are registering in their hundreds and thousands,” he said.

Dickson further claimed that defections into the NDC are already taking place across several states, urging Nigerians not to be intimidated by what he described as “legislative chicanery.”

Reaffirming the party’s stance, he said Nigerians dissatisfied with their current political affiliations should feel free to defect without fear, emphasising that the NDC offers a platform for democratic change.