By Eunice Orike
The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Seriake Dickson, has said the party is ready to hold talks with other opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing hope that such discussions could lead to support for NDC candidates.
Speaking in a televised interview, Dickson responded to questions about possible alliances with parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. He explained that the NDC remains open to collaboration with parties that share similar goals but cautioned that it is too early to predict the outcome of any talks. “As an opposition leader, our party will always be open to discussions with others in that space. No one should jump to conclusions before those talks begin. We hope that any discussions will eventually lead to support for NDC candidates because we believe we have quality people to offer Nigerians,” he said.
Dickson stressed that the NDC was not claiming superiority over other parties, noting that more serious negotiations would likely begin after nomination processes are completed. “We are not saying we are superior to anyone. Once nominations are over, another stage of engagement will begin. Whether those talks lead to an agreement is something we will see later, but all options remain open,” he added.
His comments come at a time when opposition parties are exploring ways to strengthen their chances against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Nigeria’s opposition camp has seen major shifts in recent months: former Vice President Atiku Abubakar adopted the ADC platform earlier in 2025, while former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi left the ADC after internal disputes and later secured the NDC presidential ticket. The ADC has since faced leadership crises, court cases, and deregistration threats, complicating efforts to build a united opposition.
Despite these challenges, Dickson expressed confidence that the APC could be defeated if Nigerians are allowed to freely choose their leaders in a transparent election. “As leader of the NDC, and based on what Nigerians want, we believe the APC government and the APC as a party will suffer a massive defeat if people are allowed to vote freely and fairly,” he said. He also called for equal opportunities for all parties to contest, stressing that the only proper way to defeat a political party is through free and fair elections.
Dickson dismissed the ongoing court case seeking the deregistration of the NDC, describing it as politically motivated and lacking merit. He insisted that the party’s candidates will be on the ballot and reaffirmed confidence that both INEC and the courts would uphold the party’s registration. He also rejected claims against the party’s peace sign logo, arguing that no individual or group can claim ownership of a symbol used globally by leaders such as Obafemi Awolowo, Nelson Mandela, Aminu Kano, and Mahatma Gandhi.
