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Dickson Faults Attacks by Peter Obi’s Supporters on NDC, Insists Group Deserves Fair Treatment

Former Bayelsa Governor condemns criticism from Labour Party loyalists, says NDC not seeking favours in national discourse

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Former Bayelsa Governor condemns criticism from Labour Party loyalists, says NDC not seeking favours in national discourse

Former Governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson, has condemned recent attacks by supporters of Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi against the Niger Delta Congress (NDC), insisting that the group is not seeking special favours but rather demanding fair representation in Nigeria’s affairs. Dickson made this known in a statement issued on Thursday.

The former governor, who is also a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), addressed the situation following social media criticisms and public statements targeted at the NDC after it raised concerns over perceived marginalisation in federal appointments and resource allocation. Dickson described the backlash from some Labour Party loyalists as unwarranted and called for more respect towards Niger Delta advocacy groups.

This development comes amid heightened political debate over inclusion and equity in national governance, especially as various regional groups continue to seek greater participation. The NDC had recently called attention to what it described as inadequate recognition for Niger Delta interests under successive administrations, leading to renewed calls for dialogue on power sharing and resource control.

Dickson stated, “Nobody is doing the NDC a favour; what we are asking for is fairness and respect for the Niger Delta people. The attacks by some supporters of Peter Obi are unnecessary and only serve to undermine unity.” He urged all parties to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to personal attacks, emphasising that Nigeria’s progress depends on inclusivity. No official response had been issued by Peter Obi or Labour Party representatives as at press time.

Observers note that tensions around federal character principles and regional representation remain sensitive topics within Nigeria’s political landscape. Analysts believe that continued engagement among stakeholders may be necessary to address longstanding grievances and foster national cohesion.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/886787-nobody-is-doing-ndc-a-favour-dickson-faults-attacks-by-peter-obis-supporters.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

First Batch of Nigerians Evacuated from South Africa Arrives in Lagos

Returnees touch down at Murtala Muhammed International Airport amid heightened concerns over xenophobic attacks

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June 11, 2026

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Returnees touch down at Murtala Muhammed International Airport amid heightened concerns over xenophobic attacks

The first group of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Thursday, following renewed xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals in that country. The arrival marks the start of a government-led effort to bring affected citizens home after calls for intervention intensified this week.

Authorities coordinated the evacuation after reports of widespread attacks and looting of Nigerian-owned businesses in Johannesburg and other major cities. The returnees were received by immigration officials, health workers, and representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs upon arrival. Government said arrangements were made for their temporary accommodation and basic support as they settle back into life in Nigeria.

The evacuation underscores growing diplomatic tension between Nigeria and South Africa, two of Africa’s largest economies. Nigerian officials have repeatedly condemned the violence and called on South African authorities to protect foreign residents. Many Nigerians living in South Africa said they feared for their safety, with community leaders urging swift action to prevent further loss of life and property.

A senior official at the airport said government would continue to monitor developments and offer assistance to more Nigerians wishing to return. “We are working closely with our mission in Pretoria to ensure all our citizens who want to come home are able to do so safely,” he stated.

Further evacuation flights are expected in coming days as authorities process requests from affected families. Analysts note that the incident could strain diplomatic relations if underlying causes of the violence are not addressed by both governments.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/886802-first-batch-of-nigerians-evacuated-from-south-africa-arrives-in-lagos.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Lagos State Begins Phase Two Expansion of Lekki Port as Cargo Volumes Surge

Governor Sanwo-Olu says move will boost Nigeria’s AfCFTA trade prospects and ease pressure on Apapa, Tin Can ports

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June 11, 2026

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Governor Sanwo-Olu says move will boost Nigeria’s AfCFTA trade prospects and ease pressure on Apapa, Tin Can ports

Lagos State Government has announced commencement of the second phase expansion of Lekki Deep Sea Port, citing rising cargo demand that has pushed the new maritime facility towards its maximum capacity. The disclosure was made by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday during the Invest Lagos Summit 3.0, held in Lagos.

According to Governor Sanwo-Olu, preparations are underway for Phase Two development as Lekki Port has witnessed significant growth since it began operations in 2023. The port was initially developed to relieve congestion at older terminals in Apapa and Tin Can Island and to position Nigeria as a competitive logistics hub in West Africa.

Governor Sanwo-Olu stated that the rapid increase in cargo volumes at Lekki Port has made expansion inevitable. He said, “The next phase will help us meet future demands and reinforce Lagos’ status as a major trade gateway on the continent.” He further noted that expanding the port aligns with Nigeria’s ambitions under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), targeting a market of over 1.4 billion people. The governor emphasised that improved logistics and increased capacity would attract more investment and strengthen the state’s economy.

Managing Director of Lekki Port, Wang Qiang, confirmed that Phase Two will focus on ramping up operational capacity and enhancing logistics efficiency. He explained that this development is expected to draw more international shipping lines and support businesses relying on seamless import-export operations, while helping to reduce congestion experienced at other Nigerian ports.

With work set to begin on the next phase, stakeholders are watching how swiftly the project will be delivered and its wider impact on regional commerce. The expansion is seen as another milestone for the Lekki industrial corridor, which has become a magnet for manufacturing, energy, and logistics investments in recent years.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/lagos-announces-next-phase-of-lekki-port-as-cargo-demand-rises-2026061110183945416

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Nigeria News (Standard)

NDC Leader Dickson Admits Irregularities in Primaries, Appeals to Aggrieved Aspirants

Former Bayelsa Governor urges patience as party faces complaints over direct primaries held under tight electoral timeline

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June 11, 2026

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Former Bayelsa Governor urges patience as party faces complaints over direct primaries held under tight electoral timeline

Senator Seriake Dickson, National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has acknowledged irregularities in the party’s recently concluded primaries and appealed to aggrieved aspirants for understanding. Speaking on Thursday via his official X handle after a televised interview, Dickson addressed concerns raised by participants regarding the conduct of the exercise across several states.

Dickson, who is also the former Governor of Bayelsa State, explained that the party—just four months old—was compelled to organise membership registration, congresses, a national convention and primaries within a compressed electoral calendar. He noted that this rapid process contributed to some of the challenges experienced during the selection of candidates.

He further stated that such issues are not unique to the NDC, arguing that even more established parties have faced similar complaints under Nigeria’s current Electoral Act. “The APC-led majority were wrong in foisting compulsory direct primaries on political parties and the country. Complaints about irregularities in direct primaries are pervasive across all parties and are not peculiar to the NDC,” Dickson said.

Despite reported grievances from some aspirants, Dickson maintained that the NDC’s performance should be commended given its youth and large number of candidates. He dismissed rumours circulating online which claimed winners had already been announced from the primaries, insisting no official results have been released. “No party has announced any set of winners from its primaries, and neither has the NDC. The public should disregard any such claims in circulation, especially on social media, and await the party’s formal submissions through the appropriate channels,” he said.

The NDC is expected to proceed with reconciliation processes while awaiting formal ratification of primary outcomes. Political observers will watch how the party manages internal dissent as it prepares for its debut general elections.

Source: https://punchng.com/dickson-admits-irregularities-in-ndc-primaries-begs-aggrieved-aspirants/

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