Senator Seriake Dickson, representing Bayelsa West in the National Assembly, has accused Nigeria's political elite of undermining the country’s democratic institutions, warning that their actions amount to political suicide that threatens the nation's stability.
Speaking in Abuja on the theme “Safeguarding Nigeria’s Democracy Through Unity and Resolve” at a workshop organised by the Nigerian Civil Society’s Alliance for Democratic Change (NCSADC), Dickson stated that the political class has not only weakened Nigeria’s democracy but is also driving the nation deeper into crisis.
“The Nigerian political class has killed this country, and you guys (civil society) should not let it happen. It is killing Nigeria; it is making this country look small,” Dickson declared.
Politicians Prioritising Self-Interest Over National Development
Dickson criticised politicians for prioritising personal interests over national development, contributing to the erosion of trust in democratic institutions. He warned that such behaviour endangers the legitimacy and sustainability of Nigeria’s democratic system.
He specifically condemned the rampant defections among Nigerian politicians, who he said frequently abandon the parties on whose platforms they were elected.
“These defections are not driven by ideology or national interest but by the quest for access to state resources and the opportunity to manipulate the electoral process,” he said.
Dickson added that the Nigerian Constitution provides clear consequences for elected officials who decamp from their parties, yet politicians continue to disregard these legal provisions, demonstrating a broader contempt for the rule of law.
Call for Civil Society Action
The senator called on civil society organisations to stand firm in defence of democracy, holding politicians accountable and resisting actions that further weaken Nigeria’s institutions.
Dickson’s warning comes amid growing concerns over the state of governance, increasing political opportunism, and widespread public disillusionment with Nigeria’s political leadership.
