Table of Contents
- Callers' Demands
- Barrister Anyogo's Perspective
- Concerns About Defections
- Recommendations for Change
- Role of INEC
Phone-in radio participants in Calabar have urged the National Assembly to create laws that would prevent elected officials from switching parties after securing elections on a specific political platform.
This sentiment was echoed by a Notary Public and Director-General of Good Governance Advocacy International, Barrister Leonard Anyogo, who stated that such politicians should automatically forfeit their seats upon defection.
The callers expressed their opinions during early morning phone-in segments broadcast on Sparkling FM and FAD FM, while Barrister Anyogo shared his views in an interview with DAILY POST.
Two of the callers, Mrs. Tina Akpan, a teacher, and Mr. Jim Ete, a social worker, indicated that frequent defections have weakened opposition parties and diminished democratic competition.
Mrs. Akpan cautioned that this trend is driving Nigeria towards a one-party system, where the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would dominate and govern without effective oversight.
“We are facing a perilous situation,” she stated. “When the ruling party becomes excessively powerful, it risks becoming dictatorial and authoritarian. This no longer represents a democracy that safeguards free speech and association.”
Mr. Ete further noted that ongoing defections would deprive voters of genuine choices during elections.
He claimed that the ruling party often entices or coerces politicians to change their allegiance, thereby suppressing opposition.
In his comments, Anyogo emphasized the importance of revising current laws to ensure that elected officials who defect automatically vacate their positions.
“It is crucial that our laws be revised to mandate that politicians lose their seats if they defect,” he remarked.
“However, from a political standpoint, it ultimately remains the electorate who decide who gets elected or re-elected, as defection does not ensure victory.”
He also called on the new INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, to maintain transparency and integrity in upcoming elections, noting that Nigerians are increasingly casting their votes for individuals rather than political parties.
FAQ
What is the main concern regarding political defections in Nigeria?
The primary concern is that frequent defections weaken opposition parties and undermine democratic competition, potentially leading to a one-party system.
What did Barrister Leonard Anyogo propose regarding defections?
Barrister Anyogo proposed that laws should be amended to ensure that elected officials automatically lose their seats if they defect to another party.
What role does the electorate play in this situation?
The electorate ultimately determines who gets elected or re-elected, as defection does not guarantee victory.
