Seriake Dickson, national leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has defended the party against criticism from some supporters of Peter Obi, arguing that the platform is not indebted to any politician seeking elective office.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Dickson rejected suggestions that the NDC should be grateful to Obi or any other prominent political figure for joining the party.
The former Bayelsa State governor stated that the party is instead providing candidates with a platform through which they can contest and pursue their political ambitions.
According to him, those portraying the relationship differently are ignoring the sacrifices made by party leaders and members who built the NDC before the arrival of several high-profile politicians.
Dickson maintained that no individual should be viewed as bigger than the party because political institutions are built through collective effort rather than personal influence.
He urged supporters of Obi to refrain from attacking the party or its leadership, warning that such actions could damage the same platform expected to carry their preferred candidate into the 2027 elections.
The senator argued that genuine support for a candidate should also include respect for the political structure that provides the opportunity to contest for office.
Dickson pointed to the NDC's decision to adopt Obi as its sole presidential candidate as evidence of the confidence the party has placed in him.
He noted that the selection of both the presidential and vice-presidential candidates was completed without major disputes within the party.
According to him, the process reflected the party's commitment to unity, transparency, and inclusiveness.
Dickson also revealed that no aspirant paid money to secure the party's presidential ticket, describing the process as one based on consensus and collective interest.
He argued that a party willing to make such concessions for its candidates cannot fairly be accused of marginalizing members.
The former governor further dismissed suggestions that he lacked the qualifications to seek the presidency himself.
Dickson insisted that he possesses the experience and credentials required to run for Nigeria's highest office if he chooses to do so.
However, he explained that his focus remains on strengthening the NDC and building a sustainable opposition platform capable of competing nationally.
The party leader also stressed that the NDC attracted politicians, supporters, and stakeholders from different parts of the country before Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso joined its ranks.
He therefore argued that the party's existence and growth cannot be attributed to any single political personality.
Addressing speculation about internal disagreements, Dickson dismissed reports suggesting that the NDC is facing a serious crisis.
He described Obi as a valued member of the party and expressed confidence that leaders and supporters would continue working together despite differences of opinion.
The senator maintained that debates among supporters are normal in a democratic environment and should not be mistaken for institutional instability.
Political analysts say the episode highlights the challenges that often arise when established party structures absorb influential political movements and large support bases.
Observers also believe that managing competing expectations within opposition coalitions will remain a major task as preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum.
The controversy has generated wider discussions about party supremacy, leadership authority, and the balance between individual popularity and institutional strength.
For Dickson, the message remains straightforward: support for a candidate should not come at the expense of the political platform that makes such a candidacy possible.