The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Seriake Dickson, has announced that he and the party's presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have resolved all outstanding issues. Mr Dickson, a former governor of Bayelsa State, made this known in a Facebook post on Friday following a three-hour closed-door meeting with Mr Obi and other NDC leaders.
Meeting Details
In his post, Mr Dickson stated: "I just received my brother, colleague, and partner in the New Nigerian Project, His Excellency Mr Peter Obi, our presidential candidate, who, together with some distinguished leaders of our party, held a closed-door meeting which lasted about three hours. In the course of that meeting, we reviewed the activities of our party and discussed a few recent issues that have been a source of concern to all sides, and we amicably resolved all the issues."
Background of Dispute
The national leader did not specify the exact nature of the "issues" resolved. However, it is believed they may be linked to Mr Dickson's recent exchange with activist Aisha Yesufu. Earlier reports indicated that Ms Yesufu, an aspirant for the FCT Senatorial District primaries, alleged the process was manipulated against her. Mr Dickson later suggested she "might not have played by the rules," prompting Ms Yesufu to criticize him for antagonizing aggrieved members instead of pacifying them. Mr Dickson subsequently revealed that he and Mr Obi had initially offered Ms Yesufu a House of Representatives ticket, which she rejected.
Fresh Issues and Forward Path
In Friday's post, Mr Dickson acknowledged that "a few issues" arose during the meeting but noted that "we have agreed on how to handle them moving forward." He emphasized that the party remains focused on the "bigger picture" of winning the 2027 elections and rescuing Nigeria from alleged misgovernance by the APC-led government.
Call for Unity
The NDC leader urged members to cease "bickering and name-calling" and concentrate on electoral victory. "Both Peter Obi and I, as well as other leaders and stakeholders of our party, will continue to consult and engage with one another to address and resolve concerns, strengthen the unity and cohesion of our party, and ensure that we remain focused on our shared mission of rescuing Nigeria and building a better future for all," he concluded.
