Senator Seriake Dickson, representing Bayelsa West in the National Assembly, has accused the Nigerian political class of committing political suicide by undermining the country’s democratic institutions and processes.
He spoke on the theme “Safeguarding Nigeria’s Democracy Through Unity and Resolve,” in Abuja on Monday, at a workshop organised by Nigeria Civil Society’s Alliance for Democratic Change, NCSADC.
Senator Dickson asserted that the actions of the political class had not only weakened the nation’s democratic institutions but also pushed the country further 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,” he said.
He noted that Nigeria’s failed state status was perpetuated by politicians who prioritised personal interests over national development.
According to him, these actions of the political class erode trust in democratic institutions, threatening the stability and legitimacy of the system.
Dickson decried the situation when Nigerian politicians frequently decamped from their parties, abandoning the mandates under which they were elected.
He said that such actions undermined the democratic process and indicated a lack of faith in the system.
He noted that politicians joined the ruling party not because of ideology or policy but to access state resources and manipulate the electoral process.
Senator Dickson emphasised that the constitution was clear on the consequences of decamping, adding that politicians often ignored these provisions, highlighting a disregard for the rule of law.
