How Nigeria can curb frequent defections by politicians – Showunmi

From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta

The Convener of The Alternative, Segun Showunmi, has suggested practical steps Nigeria can take to curb frequent defections by those he described as “political tourists”.

In his suggestion, he urged the lawmakers to carry out “sweeping constitutional amendments” to strengthen political parties in order to curb frequent defections by politicians. He noted that frequent defections had destabilised the country’s democratic system.

Showunmi gave this position in a policy paper entitled “Strengthening Political Parties as Pillars of Democracy”, insisting that anyone seeking elective office must be a registered member of a political party for at least four years before an election.

According to him, amendments of sections 65(2)(b), 106(d), 131(c), and 177(c) of the 1999 Constitution will end the political malaise and ensure that politicians are driven by party ideology rather than personal ambition.

He emphasized the need to replace personality-driven politics with party-based governance to make candidates accountable and prevent opportunistic defections that erode public trust.

“Under the plan, political parties would be required to clearly state their ideological principles in their constitutions, adopt transparent candidate selection processes, and publish annual audited financial reports to curb the influence of political godfathers,” he said.