"Public Affairs Analyst: Defections Pose No Danger to Democracy"

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Democracy and Governance
• Political Defections
• Accountability
• Conclusion

Legal expert and public affairs commentator, Jide Ologun, asserts that Nigeria’s increasing trend of political defections does not pose a threat to democracy, as long as leaders commit to good governance.

He emphasized that democracy remains secure when the government protects citizens' lives, enhances welfare, and provides public services, rather than simply balancing partisan interests and political factions.

During an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos on Saturday, he pointed out that elections, political parties, and structures are only significant when the populace benefits from governance.

He noted that concerns regarding Nigeria potentially becoming a one-party state overlook a more critical issue: whether those in power prioritize national interests over personal benefits.

According to him, democracy loses its essence not when one party holds power but when leaders neglect their constitutional duties and fail to meet public expectations.

Ologun emphasized that governance is evaluated based on the improvement of citizens' lives, adding that democracy deteriorates when the voices of the people are disregarded and public trust diminishes.

He highlighted that Nigeria’s Constitution places citizens’ welfare and security at the heart of leadership responsibilities, asserting that failure in these domains signifies a decline in democracy.

Commenting on recent defections that strengthened the All Progressives Congress' position in the National Assembly, he argued that ideology has diminished in Nigerian politics.

He stated that many politicians now change parties to gain influence and ensure their survival, rather than pursue policy principles or long-term national development objectives.

In his view, defections have become a political shield, protecting individuals from prosecution, isolation, or loss of relevance in an increasingly competitive political landscape.

He referenced constitutional provisions that mandate defecting lawmakers without valid reasons to forfeit their seats, noting that weak enforcement has empowered opportunistic political movements.

Mentioning the Rivers Assembly situation, he said the spirit of the law was overlooked, allowing for selective interpretation and political maneuvering.

Ologun pointed out that the Constitution’s silence regarding governors’ defections further weakens accountability, permitting executive leaders to switch parties without repercussions.

He argued that past political practices were guided by ideological beliefs and principled discussions, while current politics prioritize power, access, and personal gain.

He cited recent occurrences in Delta, Akwa Ibom, and Enugu as instances of alignments motivated by strategic calculations rather than adherence to any party philosophy.

Ologun characterized President Bola Tinubu as a skilled political strategist who has gradually solidified his influence in anticipation of the 2027 elections.

However, he urged Nigerians to refrain from political apathy, stay organized, and demand transparency, asserting that democracy cannot flourish without an informed and engaged electorate.

He stressed that citizens must insist on accountability, warning that unchecked political opportunism threatens to undermine institutions and weaken democratic culture.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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