Former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Senator Seriake Dickson, has criticised politicians defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying they are fleeing from the same problems they created.

Speaking to journalists on Wednesday in Abuja, Senator Dickson described the ongoing wave of defections as a “political season of convenience,” where some politicians switch parties to escape accountability. He said most of those leaving the PDP have benefited from the party for years but are now abandoning it for selfish reasons.

Dickson stressed that the PDP remains the only party with genuine national structure and ideology. According to him, those defecting to the ruling APC are not motivated by patriotism or a desire to serve but by personal gain. “They are running away from the mess they created while in government or within the party. They forget that Nigerians are watching,” he said.

The senator also accused the APC of luring opposition members with promises of protection and political relevance, warning that such behaviour undermines democracy. He added that the PDP will bounce back stronger, as it has always done in the face of challenges. “Our party has survived worse situations and will emerge more united. We will not be distracted by opportunists,” Dickson declared.

He called on loyal PDP members to remain steadfast and committed to rebuilding the party, assuring them that Nigerians still believe in the PDP’s vision for a just and progressive nation.