By Enyinnaya Appolos
Former Bayelsa Governor and Senator Henry Seriake Dickson has reaffirmed his loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He declared, “I Won’t Dump PDP,” despite mounting pressure after Governor Douye Diri’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Diri’s Move ‘Unfortunate’
In a post on Facebook, Dickson described Diri’s defection as “unfortunate.”
He said there was no justification for a sitting governor, especially one serving a second term, to abandon the party that brought him to power.
“It is unfortunate that my hand-picked successor sees things differently,” he said.
“The PDP has a special place in Bayelsa, the Ijaw Nation, and Nigeria’s inclusive political space.”
He recalled that the Ijaw Nation produced a Vice President, an Acting President, and a President under the PDP.
He said those achievements remain symbols of political inclusion and respect for minorities.
Loyalty to Party and Values
Dickson emphasized that leaders from Bayelsa and the Niger Delta have a moral duty to remain with the PDP.
“I believe that I and other PDP leaders must show loyalty and steadfastness to the party to the very end,” he said.
He acknowledged internal problems within the party.
He blamed some governors and National Working Committee (NWC) members for a lack of leadership.
“But true captains don’t abandon a troubled ship,” he added.
The senator recalled devoting time and resources to rebuild the PDP after its 2015 defeat.
“This was why, when the PDP lost in 2015, I worked with others to reorganize and save the party,” he said.
Stance on Diri’s Decision
Dickson accused Diri of “donating” Bayelsa State to the APC.
He stressed that his values of loyalty and consistency remain unchanged.
“My values of loyalty and consistency remain intact,” he said.
He confirmed Diri consulted him before defecting and said his position was clear from the start.
“To be fair, the Governor consulted me, and we discussed several times,” he explained.
“I told him my stance based on principles and values he already knows.”
He added, “It is unfortunate that he has taken this step, but I wish him well.”
Call for Peace and Calm
Dickson urged Bayelsa people to remain calm and peaceful ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He said political rivalry should not threaten the peace achieved in Bayelsa in the last 15 years.
He reaffirmed his commitment to non-interference in state politics.
“I have not acted as a godfather or interfered since leaving office,” he stated.
“I will continue to promote peace and stability, even now.”
Rebuilding PDP’s Future
Dickson praised PDP officials and supporters who have stayed loyal to the party.
“I commend all faithful members for keeping faith with the PDP in this difficult period,” he said.
He concluded by assuring that he would work with other leaders to rebuild the PDP.
“I will consult with others to reposition the PDP as a formidable opposition,” he said.
Dickson reaffirmed that I Won’t Dump PDP is not just a declaration but a principle of faith, loyalty, and endurance.
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Read more: Douye Diri Resigns from PDP, Joins APC with 23 Lawmakers
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