Nigeria’s Political Class: A Threat To Democracy –Sen. Dickson 

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.

The lawmaker spoke on the theme “Safeguarding Nigeria’s Democracy Through Unity and Resolve,” in Abuja on Monday.

Senator Dickson, asserted that the actions of the political class, had not only weakened the nation’s democratic institutions but pushing the country further into crisis.

Speaking at a workshop hosted by the Nigeria Civil Society’s Alliance for Democratic Change (NCSADC), Senator Dickson said, “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 prioritise 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 join 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.

The senator also noted that politicians had little respect for the judiciary, often attempting to influence judgments and undermine the impartiality of the courts.

He expressed frustration with the subversion of institutions like the judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing politicians of manipulating them to rig elections and silence opposition.

“Our own democracy is the wishes and caprices of the president or a governor. They don’t even care how the world looks at Nigeria, with a deep disregard for constitutionalism and democratic norms,” he said.

He described the judiciary as “helpless” and often reduced to reading body language” instead of interpreting the law.

According to him, court rulings have become predictable tools in the hands of those who control power.

Senator Dickson also noted that politicians sought to control INEC to compromise election results, undermining the integrity of the electoral process.

He added that politicians exploit security agencies to rig elections, intimidate opponents, and silence critics, further eroding trust in democratic institutions.

“The civil society movement has a critical role to play in holding politicians accountable and promoting democratic values,” he said.

He opined that strengthening democratic institutions, promoting free and fair elections, and ensuring accountability were essential to Nigeria’s democratic development.

The workshop brought together civil society leaders, activists, and academics from across the country, all united by a shared concern over Nigeria’s shrinking democratic space.