TDFormer Bayelsa State Governor and prominent leader of the New Democratic Congress (NDC), Henry Seriake Dickson, has strongly criticized the ruling of the Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja, presided over by Honourable Justice Isah Dashen.
In a statement released Friday evening, Dickson described the order as “lacking legal merit” and “anti-democratic”.
He insists that it was designed to undermine the credibility of the NDC and stifle Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
“The order is illegal and will not stand.
“It is against multi-party democracy, anti-democratic in nature, and aimed at narrowing and stifling the democratic space.
“It will be resisted by all of us and by all lovers of democracy in Nigeria,” Dickson declared.
Dickson Vows Legal Challenge Underway
Dickson revealed that the NDC has already assembled a team of lawyers to challenge the ruling and restore what he termed “judicial normalcy.”
He urged party members and supporters to remain calm and continue their political activities.
He stressed that the development was only “the first test of our commitment and resilience.”
The NDC chieftain further criticized the involvement of an unregistered association in the case.
He noted that the group was neither a registered political party nor among the associations that applied for registration in 2025.
“We Know Where This Is Coming From” ~ Dickson
According to Dickson, the move was orchestrated by those unsettled by the rapid progress of the NDC in recent months.
He argued that the party’s growth and popularity had attracted attacks from unexpected quarters.
“We are not naive to expect that the tremendous progress we have achieved in the last five months would go without attack…
“This particular development came from a very unlikely source,” he said.
Rallying Support and Resilience
Despite the setback, Dickson maintained that the NDC’s momentum remains strong.
He cited thousands of new registrations across the country on the same day as evidence of growing solidarity.
He invoked his favorite quote on struggles: “First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they attack you, then you win.”
“We are under attack, as I have repeatedly said we should prepare for challenges such as this.
“But thereafter, we shall win,” he affirmed.
Broader Implications
The controversy underscores ongoing tensions in Nigeria’s political landscape, where emerging parties like the NDC are challenging established structures.
Analysts note that the case could set a precedent for how courts handle disputes involving new political movements and associations.
For now, Dickson insists the NDC will not be deterred.
“All our candidates, supporters, and teeming voters across the country and beyond should hold on firmly and keep the faith.
“This development shows that our efforts have not gone unnoticed,” he added.
