The founder and National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has stated that the party will not function as a temporary platform for individual political ambitions, urging members and aspirants to remain committed to building a sustainable democratic institution.
He made the remarks during the inauguration of the NDC National Selection Committee in Abuja, where he reaffirmed the party’s focus on innovation, transparency, and strong institutional processes ahead of its upcoming primaries and political engagements.
Dickson explained that the NDC was established to reshape Nigeria’s political culture by developing enduring structures and systems that transcend personal interests.
“We are not building a special-purpose vehicle for any individual. We are building, together, a political party that will stand the test of time,” he said.
His comments were widely interpreted as a caution to prominent political figures and recent entrants into the party, including former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as well as other stakeholders.
He reiterated that the NDC is committed to institutional governance rather than personality-driven politics.
“In the NDC, we are building an institution. We are building systems, standards, and processes,” he added.
During the event, Senator Cleopatra Moses Zuwohe, the party’s National Chairman, was inaugurated as Chairperson of the National Selection Committee.
Other members of the committee were also unveiled, drawn from various professional and political backgrounds.
Dickson further explained that the committee would engage stakeholders across states and constituencies to ensure fairness, inclusiveness, and transparency in the nomination process.
“All politics is local at the end of the day. This committee has the mandate to handle issues people may not ordinarily want to address,” he said.
He commended party officials and supporters for their dedication since the party’s formation, noting the sacrifices made in building the new political structure.
He also acknowledged the legal and political challenges the party had faced, adding that critics had doubted its ability to meet Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) requirements.
Despite this, he said public support had continued to grow, reflecting Nigerians’ desire for political change.
He quoted a popular saying attributed to Mahatma Gandhi to describe the party’s journey: “First, they ignore you. Then they laugh at you. Then they fight you. Then you win.”
Also speaking, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi urged aspirants not to lose hope if they fail to secure nominations, stressing that political participation should be seen as service rather than entitlement.
He noted that while not every aspirant would succeed, their contributions would still be valued within the party.
Obi also emphasised the need for sacrifice, unity, and inclusion in rebuilding Nigeria, while calling for greater opportunities for women and young people within the party structure.
The event concluded with renewed commitments from party leaders and members to strengthen unity and prepare for upcoming primaries and elections.