NDC Denies Dickson–APC Deal, Blames Political Rivals for ‘Malicious Lies’

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has strongly denied allegations that its National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, has a secret political understanding with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the claims as “malicious lies” being circulated by political opponents.

The party said Dickson remained firmly committed to the NDC and the presidential ticket of Peter Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, insisting there was no arrangement—open or covert—between the former Bayelsa State governor and the APC.

NDC National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, made the denial in a statement on Monday following what the party described as persistent speculation about Dickson’s political loyalties.

According to Director, the party initially considered ignoring the allegations but decided to respond because repeated claims could eventually gain credibility if left unchallenged.

“Our National Leader, Distinguished Senator Seriake Dickson, is not a front for the ruling APC or anyone else,” the statement said. “He has no secret or open deal whatsoever” with the ruling party.

The NDC argued that Dickson could have defected to the APC if he wanted an alliance with the governing party rather than participate in building an opposition platform.

It also dismissed suggestions that Dickson could be working to undermine Obi and Kwankwaso from within the NDC, describing such allegations as inconsistent with his political record.

The party pointed to Dickson’s years in the Senate and his positions on national issues as evidence of what it described as his commitment to the opposition and Nigerians facing economic hardship.

Director alleged that the speculation was being promoted by political opponents unsettled by the NDC’s growing presence across the country, although the statement did not identify those allegedly behind the claims or provide evidence linking particular individuals or parties to them.

The party urged its members and supporters not to be distracted by the controversy but to concentrate on mobilising support for the Obi-Kwankwaso presidential ticket and other NDC candidates ahead of the 2027 general election.

It expressed confidence that the allegations would not derail its campaign or weaken Dickson’s position within the party.