In a recent interview shared by Arise News, National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, Yusuf Dantalle, called for stricter measures to address political defections in Nigeria.
Speaking on the state of the nation’s democracy, Dantalle expressed concern over the growing trend of elected officials switching political parties after securing victory at the polls. He argued that such actions undermine the will of the electorate and weaken the integrity of the political system.
“Moving from one party to another after winning an election should automatically mean you lose that seat,” he said.
According to him, voters cast their ballots not just for individuals but for political parties and their ideologies. Allowing elected officials to defect freely without consequences, he noted, distorts representation and creates instability within the political space.
Dantalle further explained that the absence of strict legal consequences for defection encourages opportunistic politics, where individuals prioritize personal gain over public service and party loyalty. He stressed that enforcing such a rule would promote discipline, accountability, and respect for the electoral mandate.
He also urged the National Assembly to revisit existing laws and introduce clear provisions that address party defection. Strengthening the legal framework, he said, is necessary to protect Nigeria’s democracy and ensure that the mandate of the people is preserved throughout an elected term….See More
Leave a Reply