Senator Seriake Dickson, national leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has said efforts are underway to fully integrate members of the Kwankwasiyya and Obidient movements into the party’s structure as part of broader reconciliation and party-building initiatives.
Dickson made the disclosure after hosting Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and other party stakeholders at his residence on Tuesday, amid recent tensions triggered by an NDC directive warning affiliated groups against operating independently of the party.
The directive had sparked concerns among supporters of Kwankwaso and Peter Obi, whose political movements have become influential blocs within the emerging opposition platform.
Addressing the controversy, Dickson described internal disagreements as a natural consequence of the party’s rapid growth and increasing national appeal. He said the NDC remains committed to resolving disputes through dialogue, consultation, and reconciliation.
According to him, discussions with Kwankwaso focused on strengthening cooperation between party leaders and stakeholders, particularly in Kano State, where issues relating to party administration had generated concerns.
Dickson also dismissed allegations of candidate imposition, insisting that the party has consistently allowed democratic processes to determine its candidates across the country.
He expressed confidence that ongoing consultations would deepen unity within the NDC and enhance its readiness for future electoral contests.
The former Bayelsa governor described both the Kwankwasiyya and Obidient movements as valuable partners in the party’s expansion efforts. He revealed that representatives of the Obidient Movement had already met with party leaders and received assurances of inclusion in party activities at various levels.
He added that a similar integration process would be extended to the Kwankwasiyya Movement once its coordinators submit the necessary details to the party leadership.
Dickson maintained that the NDC remains focused on building a broad-based opposition coalition capable of challenging for power through democratic means.