Dele Momodu, the publisher of Ovation Magazine, has alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is coercing opposition members to join their party. In a recent interview on Arise Television, Momodu stated that the APC is using tactics to persuade opposition parties to defect to their side.

This accusation comes on the heels of several high-profile defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. Notably, Governors Peter Mbah of Enugu State and Douye Diri of Bayelsa State have recently switched allegiance to the APC. These defections have raised questions about the state of opposition politics in Nigeria.

According to Momodu, the mass defection of opposition members to the APC is unusual and suggests that some politicians may be prioritizing personal interests over party loyalty. He noted that some individuals may be drawn to the APC due to its current position of power, citing the significant influence of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The recent defections have significant implications for the political landscape in Nigeria. The APC, as the ruling party, has been consolidating its power and influence, while the opposition PDP has been grappling with internal divisions and defections. The trend of opposition members joining the APC may further weaken the opposition and reinforce the APC’s dominance.

As the political dynamics in Nigeria continue to evolve, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the country’s democratic process and the balance of power between the ruling and opposition parties. The defections and alleged coercion of opposition members by the APC have sparked concerns about the health of Nigeria’s democracy and the ability of opposition parties to provide effective checks and balances on the ruling party.