National Leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has condemned the recent order of the Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja, describing it as illegal, lacking in legal merit, and a direct threat to Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
Reacting to the court order issued by Justice Isah Dashen, Dickson said the ruling was designed to undermine the credibility and progress of the NDC, insisting that it would not stand.
«”The order lacks legal merit and is intended to affect the foundational credibility and efforts of our party. 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,” he stated.»
The former Bayelsa State Governor disclosed that the party had immediately assembled a team of lawyers to challenge the order and restore normalcy through the courts.
He urged NDC members, supporters, and candidates across the country to remain calm and continue with their political activities, assuring them that the party remained committed to its democratic ideals.
«”We have assembled our team of lawyers, and they are taking appropriate steps to set the order aside and restore normalcy. This is only the first test of our commitment and resilience.”»
Dickson questioned the legal standing of the association that instituted the suit, arguing that it was neither a registered political party nor one of the associations that applied for registration in 2025.
According to him, the association had no legal interest in the matter and no exclusive right to any political logo under Nigerian law.
He alleged that the legal action was orchestrated by forces unsettled by the rapid growth of the NDC within its first five months of existence.
«”We know where this is coming from. It is coming from those who are shocked by the progress the NDC has made within such a short period as a result of our hard work and commitment to deepening multi-party democracy.”»
Despite the legal setback, Dickson expressed confidence that the party would prevail, insisting that the struggle for democracy would continue.
«”We will use appropriate judicial channels to correct the judicial anomaly that occurred under the watch of Honourable Justice Dashen. He has clearly erred in law.”»
The NDC leader also thanked Nigerians for their continued support, revealing that thousands of people reportedly registered as members of the party following the court order in a show of solidarity.
Quoting one of his favourite sayings, Dickson declared:
«”First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they attack you, then you win.”»
He maintained that the latest development would only strengthen the resolve of the NDC to deepen multi-party democracy in Nigeria and assured supporters that the party would emerge stronger from the legal challenge.
