Senator Seriake Dickson, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, has defended his decision to support the confirmation of former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ambassador Ayodele Oke, as an ambassadorial nominee.
In a statement released on his social media handle, the senator representing Bayelsa West said the committee had a duty to ask tough and relevant questions during the screening of President Tinubu’s nominees — Ayodele Oke, Kayode Are, and Aminu Dalhatu.
Dickson said he specifically pressed Oke to address the controversies surrounding his exit from office during the previous administration. According to him, the former intelligence chief presented details of his achievements, provided explanations on the issues that led to his removal, and submitted a court order affirming his acquittal after the withdrawal of the case by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The senator said Oke’s presentation confirmed his long-standing view that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had politicised national issues, especially the anti-corruption fight, during its time in power.
“Since its formation, the APC has always played politics with serious national issues such as corruption, terrorism, and the economy,” Dickson said, accusing the party of weaponising corruption allegations against members of the opposition. He likened Oke’s ordeal to that of former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki.
Dickson stressed that while Nigerians are not opposed to a robust and impartial fight against corruption, such efforts must not be selective or targeted at political opponents. He also called for greater respect for institutions such as the Office of the National Security Adviser, noting that intelligence agencies must be protected to avoid compromising national security.
He argued that once a President issues a lawful directive, security and intelligence officers must not be victimised for carrying out their duties, even if politicians disagree with such decisions.
“Following Mr. Oke’s explanation and the withdrawal of the case by the EFCC—which should not have started in the first place—I voted to clear him,” Dickson said.
He added that he also supported the clearance of the two other nominees, Kayode Are and Aminu Dalhatu, describing them as qualified and experienced Nigerians capable of representing the country effectively.
Dickson congratulated the nominees and urged them to serve diligently in their respective postings. “We will be monitoring,” he added.
