Civilian Dictatorship Just As Bad As Military Rule, Says Senator Dickson

Senator Seriake Dickson has warned about the dangers of civilian dictatorship, claiming that it is no better than military rule and urging political leaders to recommit to upholding the Constitution and the rule of law.

He made the remarks after attending Chief Emeka Ihedioha’s 60th birthday colloquium in Abuja on Monday.

Dickson stated at the “Is Democracy Failing in Africa?” colloquium that a vibrant democracy requires an active and informed citizenry.

“Democracy is preferable to autocracy or dictatorship, and we must always remember that we are here to serve the people and the common good,” he said, emphasising the importance of empowering citizens through sensitisation and workshops to understand and assert their rights.

Dickson emphasised the importance of an engaged populace for a healthy democracy. “We cannot have a democracy with docile and ignorant citizens, or a citizenry that is constantly manipulated along ethnic and religious lines,” he said.

“Citizens must be firm about what they want from their leaders and be willing to pay the price. Going forward, we must organise ourselves and go to the grassroots to sensitise Nigerian citizens.”

The Bayelsa West Senator and former Bayelsa State Governor went on to argue that a passive and uninformed citizenry allows democratic principles to be eroded.

“Democracy will continue to fail until citizens wake up and are empowered by information and knowledge, as well as leadership and direction from the elites, to hold those who lead or serve them accountable and to assert the benefits conferred by democracy under the Constitution and laws.” He concluded, “We must commit to these.”

Senator Dickson also praised Chief Ihedioha for his contributions to public life, highlighting his career path from aide to the late Senate President Chuba Okadigbo to his time in the House of Representatives, where he served as Majority Whip and Deputy Speaker, and his brief stint as Imo State Governor.

“I am impressed, however, that he accepted his removal with dignity, and he is now one of the Federation’s key players. “I wish him the best,” Dickson stated.