Senator Seriake Dickson, the former governor of Bayelsa State, has publicly dismissed widespread rumours suggesting he has abandoned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Dickson's Firm Denial of Defection Claims
In a statement released on Friday, January 9, 2026, and signed by his media aide, Ajiri Daniels, the senator representing Bayelsa West categorically denied the social media reports. The statement explicitly affirmed that Dickson remains a committed and proud member of the PDP. It further clarified that any future decisions regarding his political trajectory would only be made after extensive consultations with his associates and allies across the nation.
The senator, known for his vocal opposition stance in the National Assembly, has consistently critiqued the policies of President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). A notable example was his strong objection and subsequent walkout during a Senate debate in March 2025 concerning emergency rule in Rivers State, which he labelled as undemocratic.
Mourning Period Halts Political Activities
The statement provided a crucial context for Dickson's recent low political profile. It revealed that the senator is currently observing a period of mourning following the tragic death of Bayelsa State's Deputy Governor, Dr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, in December 2025. As a mark of respect for his late political ally, Dickson has temporarily stepped back from all political engagements.
During this time, he has been receiving condolence visits from friends, political leaders, and well-wishers from various parts of the country. The senator assured the public that he is attentively monitoring political developments but will only resume formal political activities and make any announcements after the burial rites for the deputy governor have been concluded.
Context and Reassurance to Party Faithful
Senator Dickson used the opportunity to call on the public, his supporters, and loyal members of the PDP to completely disregard the false reports of his defection to the ADC. He reiterated his position as a key leader within the PDP and expressed hope that the party would continue to strengthen its legacy in Nigerian politics.
This clarification comes against a backdrop of notable political shifts in Bayelsa. Last year, his successor, Governor Douye Diri, defected from the PDP to the ADC. However, the late Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo, who was a close ally of Senator Dickson, had chosen to remain with the PDP until his passing.
The political landscape of the PDP itself has been turbulent, with internal factions and public criticisms from prominent figures like former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, who recently blamed key party leaders for its challenges.
