Seriake Dickson Criticises Tinubu’s Silence On Rivers State Political Crisis.
Former Bayelsa State Governor and serving Senator, Seriake Dickson, has publicly condemned President Bola Tinubu for his silence amid the escalating political crisis in Rivers State. Speaking on Democracy Day, Dickson accused the Tinubu administration of failing to uphold democratic principles, warning that the ongoing turmoil in Rivers State undermines Nigeria’s democratic credentials.
In a strongly worded statement, Dickson declared, “We cannot celebrate democracy while suppressing it in Rivers State.” His remarks, made during a press briefing in Abuja, highlighted what he described as a troubling inaction from the presidency in addressing the political unrest in the state. The senator urged the federal government to take decisive steps to restore democratic order, accusing the administration of turning a blind eye to what he termed a “power grab” in Rivers.
The political crisis in Rivers State has been marked by tensions between factions loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and those aligned with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The conflict has led to violent clashes, disruptions in governance, and a deepening divide within the state’s political landscape. Dickson, a prominent figure in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), argued that the federal government’s inaction risks emboldening anti-democratic forces. “You cannot preach democracy and practise autocracy,” he stated, calling for immediate intervention to prevent further deterioration.
Dickson’s criticism comes in the wake of earlier remarks he made in March 2025, when he opposed President Tinubu’s controversial declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. At the time, he described the move as an overreach of federal authority and accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of attempting to silence his dissent on the matter. “This is not about politics; it’s about the survival of our democracy,” Dickson reiterated during his Democracy Day address.
Public reactions to Dickson’s comments have been mixed. Supporters have praised the senator for his forthrightness, with some taking to social media to express gratitude for his outspoken stance. “Thank you, Senator Dickson, for speaking up,” wrote one user on X, echoing sentiments of those who believe the federal government must act swiftly to resolve the crisis. However, others have questioned whether Dickson’s remarks are politically motivated, given his affiliation with the PDP, which has been at odds with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Rivers State crisis has drawn national attention, with analysts warning that it could set a dangerous precedent for democratic governance in Nigeria. Dickson’s call for action has reignited debates about the federal government’s role in mediating state-level conflicts and the broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
As the nation commemorates Democracy Day, the senator’s remarks serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Nigeria’s democratic journey. “If we are to celebrate democracy, we must ensure it thrives in every corner of this country, including Rivers State,” Dickson concluded.
The presidency has yet to respond to Dickson’s allegations, leaving many Nigerians awaiting clarity on how the federal government intends to address the crisis. For now, the situation in Rivers State remains a critical test of Nigeria’s commitment to democratic principles.
