Dickson, ex-AD leaders reunite after 27 years, pledge to defend democracy

Senator Seriake Dickson, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, has rekindled ties with former leaders of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), a party instrumental in the nation's transition to democracy in 1998-1999. The reunion, held recently, brought together key members of the old political family, including Chief Michael Odurinde, a former Senior Special Adviser to the late Afenifere leader Pa Ayo Adebanjo.

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Over the last few hours, I have had the privilege of hosting some of our leaders and colleagues from the old Alliance for Democracy. As many of you will recall, at the dawn of this democratic dispensation in 1998 and 1999, Nigeria had only three political parties.

Dickson, who previously served as the AD's founding State Chairman and National Legal Adviser, described the gathering as an opportunity to reconnect, rebuild networks, and reflect on Nigeria's Fourth Republic. He acknowledged the sacrifices of departed leaders like Chief Bola Ige, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, and Chief Abraham Adesanya, whose contributions are vital to understanding the country's democratic era.

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I was privileged to serve as a founding State Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy and later as its National Legal Adviser. Many of the distinguished personalities gathered here today were my leaders, mentors, and colleagues in that historic journey.

Despite the political significance of the attendees, Dickson clarified that the reunion was not intended for partisan politics or discussions about potential alliances between the defunct AD and his current Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). Instead, he stressed that the primary purpose was to foster reconnection, strengthen relationships, and celebrate a shared history of service to Nigeria. The event served as a moment of solemn reflection and gratitude for the legacy left by the party's founders.

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We are especially honoured by the presence of our revered elder, Baba (Odurinde), who at 86 years remains a shining symbol of dedication and service. Since we began working together some 27 years ago, we rarely had the opportunity to gather in this manner. Life took us in different directions but we remained committed.