FORMER Bayelsa State governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stating that former President Goodluck Jonathan is likely disheartened by the party’s current state.
Speaking during an appearance on a television programme, Dickson who recently defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) said the PDP, once a dominant political force that produced multiple presidents since 1999, has effectively collapsed.
Although he clarified that he does not speak on behalf of Jonathan, Dickson noted that the former president must be saddened by the situation, given his long-standing association with the party, having served as governor, deputy governor, vice president, and president under its platform.
He added that witnessing the party’s decline firsthand would be deeply troubling.
Dickson, who governed Bayelsa State between 2012 and 2020 under the PDP, officially joined the NDC earlier in March, describing the new party as a credible opposition alternative for Nigerians.
He acknowledged delays in its formation, attributing them to factors beyond the party’s control, including regulatory and judicial processes.
Addressing claims that prominent members are abandoning the PDP, Dickson argued instead that the party has drifted away from its foundational structure and ideals.
According to him, the PDP has “ceased to exist” in its original form, having been weakened by internal divisions and leadership disputes.
The party has faced prolonged instability over the past year, with rival factions contesting control and several high-profile defections reducing its influence.
Presently, the PDP retains only two state governors, following a wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Dickson’s remarks add to growing concerns about the future of the opposition party, as political realignments continue to reshape Nigeria’s landscape ahead of future elections.
