Dickson Accuses APC Of Using Paid Crowds To Fake Grassroots Support

The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Seriake Dickson, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of relying on paid crowds, induced gatherings and political appointees to create the impression of widespread political support.

Dickson also declared that the APC lacks strong grassroots support in Bayelsa State and would struggle to defeat the NDC in the 2027 general elections.

The former Bayelsa State Governor made the remarks in a statement shared on his X account on Thursday, November 12, 2026, following a meeting with stakeholders, women leaders and youth representatives from various communities and wards in Ekeremor Local Government Area.

The meeting, which took place on Wednesday, was part of the NDC’s political engagement with communities across the state ahead of the 2027 elections.

He questioned the ruling party’s grassroots acceptance in Ekeremor, arguing that the crowds often displayed at its political events did not necessarily reflect genuine support from ordinary residents.

According to him, many of those attending APC gatherings were either paid to participate, mobilised through inducements or were government political appointees.

Dickson further expressed confidence that some individuals currently associated with the APC would reconsider their political positions when the time came to make decisions about the 2027 elections.

He said, “I therefore ask: Where are the grassroots supporters of the APC in Ekeremor? From what we have witnessed, much of the support claimed by the APC appears to come from paid crowds, induced gatherings and political appointees.

“I believe many of those currently associated with them will make their own political decisions when the time comes.

“From all that I have seen, there is no APC presence strong enough to defeat the NDC in any election in Bayelsa State.”

The NDC leader’s comments come as political parties intensify efforts to strengthen their structures and expand their support bases across the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.

His remarks also highlight the growing political contest between the NDC and the APC in Bayelsa State, where both parties are expected to seek wider support among voters and influential political stakeholders.

However, Dickson’s claims about the APC’s support base represent his political assessment and have not been independently established.

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