Former Governor of Bayelsa State and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Senator Seriake Dickson, has denied reports claiming he has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a statement issued on Friday by his media aide, Ajiri Daniels, the senator described the reports as false and misleading. He said he remains a committed member of the PDP and has not joined any other political party.
Senator Dickson explained that he is currently in mourning following the death of the Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Dr Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. He said he stepped back from political activities as a mark of respect and has been receiving condolence visits from friends, political leaders, allies and well wishers from across the country.
He noted that the visitors include political leaders from different parties as well as individuals from various walks of life.
While saying he is closely monitoring political developments, the senator said he will consult widely with friends and political allies across the country after the burial before taking any decision, which will be formally announced.
In the meantime, he said he remains a key leader in the PDP and expressed hope that the party will address its internal challenges in line with its legacy in Nigerian politics.
Senator Dickson urged members of the public, party faithful and supporters to disregard the defection reports, describing them as fake news and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public. He advised them to rely only on information from his verified communication channels.
His statement comes amid recent political realignments in Bayelsa State following the defection of Governor Douye Diri from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress. Dickson had previously said he did not support the move and had advised against it, stating that he did not see a compelling reason for a sitting second term governor to leave the party.
He also called for calm and stability in the state, saying he is observing developments while continuing consultations within the PDP.
