ABUJA, Nigeria โ Fresh details have emerged regarding the internal friction rocking the opposition Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), with political insiders revealing that former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi was explicitly warned against forming an alliance with Bayelsa politician Seriake Dickson before the party’s formation.
Colleagues within the opposition space reportedly urged Obi to steer clear of the former Bayelsa State Governor, advising him instead to build a movement under “more virgin” or lesser-known political platforms, such as the Action Peoples Party (APP).
The Early Warnings and Obiโs Deflection
According to a prominent politician who witnessed the early coalition talks, Obi brushed aside the concerns about Dickson’s political history and reputation. Obi reportedly argued that his decision to merge forces was driven strictly by a desire to solve Nigeria’s systemic problems rather than personal ambition.
“Peter Obi deflected the concerns, stating that he was only joining the party to help solve some problems in Nigeriaโand not for selfish reasons,” the source recalled. Obi reportedly maintained that because he wanted nothing personal from the party structure, he would not find himself in situations that would trigger personal conflicts with Dickson.
Suspicions of Sabotage and APC Links
Despite Obi’s early optimism, the current reality within the NDC tells a different story. Loyalists of both Peter Obi and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso are increasingly suspicious of Dicksonโs current political maneuvers.
A growing faction within the party suspects that the Bayelsa politician may be secretly working hand-in-hand with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Bola Tinubu administration to destabilize the opposition coalition from within.
While there is currently no concrete or readily available evidence proving that Dickson is actively colluding with the APC, the escalating internal wrangling, parallel leadership disputes, and sudden administrative roadblocks within the NDC have led many party faithful to suspect foul play.
A Fragile Opposition Coalition
The unfolding drama threatens the structural stability of the NDC ahead of the 2027 general elections. What was designed to be a formidable, united front bringing together Obiโs grassroots support, Kwankwasoโs Kwankwasiyya movement, and traditional regional powerbrokers is now facing deep ideological and structural mistrust, raising questions about whether Obi’s calculation to overlook political warnings will ultimately cost the coalition.
