INEC’s Registration Of NDC Victory For Democracy -Seriake Dickson

Former Governor of Bayelsa State, Henry Seriake Dickson, has welcomed the registration of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) by the Independent National Electoral Commission, describing it as a victory for constitutional democracy and the rule of law in the country.

He stated this at the unveiling of the party in Abuja.

Senator Serike said the development followed a judgment of the Federal High Court which affirmed the constitutional right to freedom of association after the court ruled that denying the group registration breached the fundamental rights of citizens.

He explained that the promoters of the party approached the court after efforts to register the association as a political party were initially unsuccessful.

“We went to court because we believed our constitutional right to freedom of association had been breached.”

“The court listened to all arguments and delivered judgment in our favour, affirming that citizens have the right to freely associate and participate in the political process.” he stated.

The former governor noted that following the court ruling, INEC complied with the judgment and issued a certificate of registration to the Nigerian Democratic Congress.

Senator Dickson commended the judiciary for its impartiality in resolving the dispute and also acknowledged the leadership of Mahmood Yakubu for ensuring that the commission implemented the court decision.

“I want to commend the Nigerian judiciary for performing its constitutional role as an impartial arbiter. I also appreciate the Chairman of INEC and officials of the commission for respecting the rule of law and implementing the judgment accordingly,” he said.

He described the emergence of the NDC as an important step toward strengthening Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system and providing a credible platform for political participation.

“This is a fresh platform for Nigerians who believe in democratic governance and national development”.

“It is also an opportunity to deepen multiparty democracy and provide credible opposition politics in the country,” Senator Dickson added.

He further noted that although the process of registering the party was not without challenges, the outcome demonstrates the strength of democratic institutions in protecting citizens’ rights.

“Despite the challenges and delays encountered during the process, this outcome reinforces the role of democratic institutions in safeguarding the rights of citizens and strengthening political participation in Nigeria,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the NDC, Senator Cleopatra Moses Zuwogeh, urged Nigerians who may have lost confidence in the political system to see the party as a renewed platform for democratic engagement and national transformation.

Presenting the party’s registration card 001/flag to the Senator Seriake, Senator Zuwogeh said the emergence of the party represents a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democratic space.

“The NDC is a platform for Nigerians from all backgrounds to come together and contribute meaningfully to governance.”

“Our goal is to promote transparency, accountability and inclusive leadership,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the leadership of the party would provide the necessary direction as the NDC begins its political activities across the country.

Georgina Humphrey, Edited By Grace Namiji