RismadarVoice Reporters
January 9, 2026
Former Governor of Bayelsa State and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson, has dismissed reports claiming he defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the reports as false and misleading.
Dickson refuted the speculation in a statement issued on Friday by his media aide, Ajiri Daniels, stressing that he remains firmly in the PDP and has not joined any other political party.
According to the statement, the senator is currently observing a period of mourning, following the death of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, and has consequently withdrawn from active political engagements.
“Dickson is presently in mourning following the death of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. As a mark of respect, he has since stepped back from political activities, has been receiving condolence visits from friends, political leaders, allies and well-wishers from across the country,” the statement said.
The statement noted that those who visited the former governor cut across political leaders from different parties and individuals from various walks of life, a development it said should not be misconstrued as defection-related meetings.
While acknowledging his continued interest in national political developments, Dickson assured that after the burial, he would consult widely with friends and political allies across the country before taking any political decision, which would be formally announced if and when made.
“In the meantime, he remains a key leader in the PDP, hopes that the party will get its act right, considering its legacy contributions to Nigerian politics,” the statement added.
The senator urged members of the public, PDP supporters and party faithful to disregard the defection rumours, describing them as fake news deliberately circulated to misinform Nigerians. He advised them to rely solely on information from his verified communication channels.
Speculation over Dickson’s political future had intensified in recent weeks amid the lingering leadership crisis within the PDP.
Before his death, the late Ewhrudjakpo and Dickson were widely rumoured to be considering a possible exit from the opposition party.
Dickson, a former PDP National Chairman and a vocal critic of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), remains one of the most outspoken opposition figures in the Senate, frequently challenging government policies and actions on the floor of the Red Chamber.
