The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Henry Seriake Dickson, has formally received a delegation of defecting youths from the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing their move as a significant boost to the quest for a more inclusive and ideology-driven political system.
Speaking at a reception in Abuja, Dickson commended the group for what he termed a bold and principled decision, praising their spokesperson for delivering what he described as “one of the most compelling speeches by young political actors in Nigeria.”
“On behalf of the leadership of the NDC, it is our pleasure to welcome you home,” he said. “Young people like you represent the hope of this country. Your words reflect experience, patriotism, and a deep commitment to national service.”
The former Bayelsa State governor said the concerns raised by the defectors mirror a wider pattern of marginalisation within the APC, particularly affecting youths and women.
According to him, the ruling party has not only alienated its younger base but has also fallen short of the expectations of many Nigerians, including some of its founding members.
Dickson explained that the emergence of the NDC was driven by the need to build a political movement grounded in clear ideology, rather than one sustained by electoral convenience.
“If power changes hands without a guiding philosophy, the system will inevitably recycle the same failures,” he said. “That is why we are building the NDC on shared values, accountability, and a clear sense of purpose.”
Reaffirming the party’s commitment to inclusion, he disclosed that the NDC has already put in place frameworks to ensure meaningful participation of youths and women at all levels of its structure, from the grassroots to national leadership.
He added that mentorship initiatives are being developed to nurture a new generation of leaders capable of driving sustainable governance.
Highlighting what he described as a defining feature of the party, Dickson pointed to the emergence of women as state chairpersons within the NDC, noting that such representation sets a new benchmark in Nigeria’s political space.
He also hinted that more prominent female political figures from across the country are expected to join the party in the coming weeks.
Encouraging the defectors to integrate fully into the party, Dickson assured them of opportunities to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
“We are inspired by your courage and encouraged by your conviction. With young Nigerians like you, the future remains bright,” he said.
Earlier, the leader of the defecting group, Nasir Lawal, announced their resignation from the APC, citing deepening dissatisfaction within the party.
He said the decision followed extensive consultations with supporters across several states and the Federal Capital Territory, noting that many loyal members had become “internally displaced” within the party structure.
Lawal alleged systemic exclusion of youths and women, alongside the dominance of entrenched political elites, including serving and former public office holders.
He further expressed concern that pressing national challenges such as insecurity and economic hardship were being overshadowed by what he described as the APC’s early focus on the 2027 elections.
According to him, the high cost of nomination forms and limited access to party structures have made it increasingly difficult for young Nigerians to participate meaningfully in politics.
He also criticised what he termed excessive spending by political actors, contrasting it with the struggles faced by grassroots members.
Lawal said the group chose the NDC because it aligns with their vision for internal democracy, reform, and broader citizen participation.
He pledged that the defectors would actively contribute to policy development, campaign strategy, and grassroots mobilisation as the party intensifies preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Dickson Welcomes Defecting APC Youths, Positions NDC as Platform for Inclusion
