Dickson Urges Tinubu To Ease Political Tensions Ahead Of 2027

National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take steps to reduce political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Dickson also called on security agencies to provide a safe environment for political parties and candidates to campaign freely across the country.

The former Bayelsa State governor spoke in Abuja while receiving the management of LEADERSHIP Newspaper, which visited him to present the official notification of his selection as the newspaper’s Politician of the Year 2026.

Dickson stressed the need to protect Nigeria’s multi-party democracy and ensure that political disagreements do not trigger violence.

“We are not enemies. We are fellow Nigerians who disagree,” he said, urging political actors to respect citizens’ democratic rights regardless of their political differences.

He called on President Tinubu to lead efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure that security agencies create a conducive atmosphere for all parties and candidates ahead of the 2027 campaigns.

Dickson said the NDC would engage relevant security agencies as it prepares for nationwide campaign activities. He added that the party would participate fully in the 2027 electoral process.

The NDC leader also reaffirmed his commitment to building a strong multi-party democratic system in Nigeria.

He said the emergence of the NDC followed difficult political decisions and a determination to pursue a different political direction.

According to him, he chose to establish a new political platform rather than remain in what he considered an ineffective opposition structure or join the ruling party or the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Dickson said the decision required conviction, sacrifice and the support of political associates and Nigerians who believed in the project.

He acknowledged the contributions of NDC leaders, members and supporters across the country, saying their collective efforts had helped the party grow.

The senator also recognised the support of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

Meanwhile, Dickson expressed appreciation to LEADERSHIP Newspaper for selecting him for the 2026 award.

He said neither he nor members of his political team knew about the nomination before the newspaper announced it.

Dickson described the selection process as significant and commended the newspaper for what he called its independence and integrity.

He dedicated the honour to NDC members at the national, state, local government and ward levels, as well as Nigerians at home and abroad who support the party’s vision.

The LEADERSHIP management team, led by its Vice Chairman, Mr Michael Okpere, presented the notification during the visit.

The newspaper said it selected Dickson in recognition of his public service record, political leadership and role in the emergence of the NDC as a new opposition platform.

The main award ceremony is scheduled for December 1 at the International Conference Centre in Abuja.