In Nigeria’s democratic journey, one recurring threat continues to destabilise the political terrain — the chronic defection of politicians from one party to another. This trend is not only harmful to political stability but also undermines ideological clarity, electoral integrity, and most importantly, citizen trust.
Under NIDMECORP, we believe that without decent and expert mentoring, guidance, or coaching — even in politics, Nigeria cannot attain quality governance and leadership quickly enough. Mentorship bridges experience and vision. It builds character, enforces values, and ensures continuity of purpose, especially for the emerging generation of leaders in the Diaspora and at home.
There's no better time for active internal political adherence and obedience than now.
A look at Nigeria’s top political figures, and Nigeria is without debate Africa's largest political nation, reveals a worrying pattern: virtually all have decamped or moved from one party to another, with some doing so multiple times. Names like within Presidency, Governors, Ministers, Senators, Members of the House of Representatives have crossed party lines more than once. This is not a coincidence. It is symptomatic of a political class lacking ideological discipline and often driven by short-term ambitions or personal survival. It is of course right, and one's rights to moved or decamped but NOT WITH THE VOTES OF THE VOTERS OR ELECTORATE.
This state of play weakens party structures and discourages younger politicians from cultivating loyalty, structure, or belief in democratic values. When leaders switch sides with impunity, they signal that politics is transactional — a dangerous message for any democracy.
This calls into INEC’s Legal and Moral Responsibility.
The 1999 Nigerian Constitution (Section 68(1)(g)) and the Electoral Act clearly state that a legislator who defects from the party that sponsored their election must vacate their seat — except in the case of a genuine party split or merger. This rule is aimed at ensuring electoral accountability.
Sadly, INEC has failed to enforce this provision. Legislators and even governors who cross party lines stay in office, benefit from state resources, and destabilise governance — with no consequence. This weakens democracy and empowers political opportunism.
As the electoral umpire, INEC must be held accountable. It must implement the laws as they are, not as politics dictates. The failure to conduct byelections when necessary not only violates the constitution but undermines Nigeria’s political development.
As an international organisation for mentoring, youth development and leader callnon INEC to go beyond soft padding parties and politicians.
Suggested Ideas and Reform Approach includes-
1. Strengthen Mentorship Platforms or establish a strong link between various organisations in the country.
Diaspora professionals and veterans must mentor upcoming politicians on ethics, party discipline, and legacy-driven leadership.
2. Electoral Law Enforcement
INEC must strictly implement constitutional provisions by declaring seats vacant upon unlawful defection, where elected brings legal demand of the seat iand conducting byelections promptly.
3. Civic Education and Voter Power
Citizens must be enlightened to reject habitual defectors and vote for candidates with a proven commitment to ideology and public service.
4. Internal Party Democracy
Reforms are needed to ensure that parties run fair primaries and build strong internal structures that discourage defection due to injustice or imposition.
5. Constitutional Reforms
The National Assembly should consider amendments that mandate automatic loss of office and immediate elections upon illegal defection.
Nigeria Needs Disciplined Leaders, Not Political Merchants
As we build a new generation of leaders, especially through platforms that support political growth and development, we must instill the values of loyalty, ideology, and service. Defection without consequence is not only a betrayal of voters but also a betrayal of our democracy.
INEC must rise to its duty. The laws must be obeyed. And our desire to have a country in great shape must be relentless.
The future of Nigeria’s governance depends on the seeds we plant today — and mentorship is the first and most vital tool.