Politicians Defecting to Ruling Party: A Crisis in Nigeria’s Political Landscape

In the wake of the 2023 general elections, there has been a growing trend of opposition politicians defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This has led to concerns about the health of Nigeria’s democracy and the implications for the nation’s political future. While some see these defections as a betrayal of democratic principles, others argue that they are a necessary means of survival for politicians in a highly competitive environment.

Reasons Behind the Exodus: Ideology or Self-interest?

A significant number of stakeholders have attributed the defections to selfish interests and a lack of respect for party ideology. Many politicians, having secured their political positions, have shifted their allegiance to the ruling party, hoping to secure political favors and ensure their future relevance. For example, the Labour Party, which emerged as a key opposition force, has seen the defection of at least 18 of its lawmakers to the APC, while the main opposition, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has lost numerous elected officials, including members of the National Assembly and state assemblies.

Elder Wole Oyelese, a prominent PDP figure, criticized the trend, calling it a crisis of political integrity. He emphasized that such defections often occur out of a desire for personal gain and a lack of commitment to the voters and principles that initially propelled these politicians into office.

The Role of the Judiciary

Some argue that the judiciary has a crucial role in addressing the issue. Senator Chris Ekpenyong, former Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, noted that the constitution clearly states that politicians who defect after being elected on a party’s platform should vacate their seats. However, the failure of the judiciary to uphold this law has allowed politicians to defect without consequence, undermining the democratic process. Ekpenyong called on the judiciary to interpret the constitution faithfully and prevent defections that threaten Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.

The Use of State Resources as a Factor

Another perspective comes from the Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, who pointed to the use of state resources by the ruling party to lure opposition figures into defecting. Ifoh criticized this practice, stating that not all politicians who join a party do so out of genuine belief in its platform. He stressed that some merely see it as an opportunity for personal gain and position, undermining the party’s core values.

The Justification for Defections: Survival and Political Aspirations

On the other hand, some argue that defection can be justified, particularly if a politician feels marginalized or mistreated within their party. APC chieftain Hon Charles Idahosa explained that politics is a game of interest, and if a politician is unhappy with the direction of their party, they have every right to move to a more favorable environment. He pointed to examples abroad where politicians frequently switch parties without controversy, highlighting the personal nature of such decisions.

Chief Peter Ameh, the National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), also weighed in, noting that defections can be symptomatic of deeper challenges in Nigeria’s political system. He argued that the lack of a strong opposition and the dominance of the ruling party could result in weakened democracy, preventing citizens from holding their leaders accountable.

A Challenge for Democracy

The constant defection of opposition politicians to the ruling party has raised serious questions about the future of Nigeria’s democracy. While some politicians justify their move as a strategic decision to secure their political futures, others argue that this trend erodes the integrity of the political system and weakens the opposition’s ability to challenge the government effectively.

In a system where ideology often takes a backseat to personal ambition, the principles of democratic governance are increasingly being undermined. As Nigeria moves toward the 2027 general elections, the question remains: can the political system recover from this trend of defection, or will it continue to be plagued by self-interest over public service?