Callers on a phone-in radio program in Calabar are urging the National Assembly to introduce legislation that would prevent elected officials from switching parties after winning elections on a specific platform. This demand is also supported by Barrister Leonard Anyogo, a Notary Public and Director-General of Good Governance Advocacy International, who suggests that such politicians should automatically forfeit their seats upon defection.

The callers, including Mrs. Tina Akpan, a teacher, and Mr. Jim Ete, a social worker, expressed their views during morning phone-in programs on Sparkling FM and FAD FM. They argue that frequent defections have weakened opposition parties and eroded democratic competition. Mrs. Akpan warns that this trend could lead to a one-party system, where the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would dominate and govern without effective checks, undermining democracy and free speech.

Mr. Ete adds that continuous defections would deny voters real alternatives during elections, alleging that the ruling party often lures or pressures politicians to switch allegiance, thereby stifling opposition. Barrister Anyogo emphasizes the need to amend existing laws to ensure that elected officials who defect automatically vacate their offices. He notes that while defection does not guarantee victory, it is still the electorate who determine who gets elected or re-elected.

Anyogo also urges the new INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, to uphold transparency and credibility in future elections, observing that Nigerians are increasingly voting for individuals rather than political parties. The calls for legislation to prevent party switching come as concerns grow about the health of Nigeria’s democracy and the need to strengthen opposition parties.

The proposed legislation, if enacted, would aim to promote political stability and prevent the erosion of democratic competition. It would also ensure that elected officials remain accountable to the parties and constituents who elected them. As the National Assembly considers this proposal, it will be important to weigh the potential implications for Nigeria’s political landscape and the future of its democracy.