Seriake Dickson Breaks Silence, Condemns OK Movement’s Actions As Nonsensical

National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Seriake Dickson, has criticised the activities of the OK Movement, describing its attempt to operate a parallel campaign structure as “nonsensical” and “unheard of.”

According to Bush Radio Academy, Dickson made the remarks while receiving former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, into the NDC. The development comes amid a disagreement between the party leadership and the OK Movement over the organisation of campaign structures ahead of the 2027 general election.

Dickson argued that political support groups should complement the activities of the parties and candidates they support rather than compete with them for influence, space or control.

He said the primary responsibilities of such groups should include grassroots mobilisation, promoting the party and its candidates, and helping to build wider electoral support.

“What the OK Movement is doing is nonsensical. It is unheard of. Support groups don’t compete with the political party that is sponsoring candidates. Support groups don’t compete for supremacy, for space. Support groups are what they are: support groups,” Dickson said.

The NDC national leader maintained that support groups should not assume the functions of political parties by sponsoring candidates or establishing structures that could rival the party’s official campaign organisation.

Dickson also said the NDC remained open to working with various support groups and had provided room for them to contribute to the party’s activities. He noted that he had previously engaged with groups associated with the Obidient movement and said more support groups were welcome.

The disagreement follows the decision by the OK Movement, a support platform associated with Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, to announce a 59-member Presidential Campaign Council to mobilise support for the NDC ticket ahead of the 2027 election. The NDC subsequently disowned the structure, saying it was not authorised by the party.

Dickson said support groups could be active in their mobilisation efforts but should remain within their defined role of promoting the party and its candidates rather than attacking or attempting to replace the structures of the sponsoring political party.

The dispute has highlighted differences over how campaign activities should be coordinated within the NDC as the party prepares for the 2027 general election. The party has since said its presidential candidate and running mate would have a role in nominating key officials for the official Presidential Campaign Council in consultation with the party leadership.