How Empty political ideology continues to drain Africa's largest democracy -Nigeria. By Okwo romeon in Abuja and Mark Eno in Calabar

 

Nigeria, Africa's largest democracy, has been grappling with the challenge of empty political ideology for over two decades. Despite having over 100 registered political parties, there is a lack of clear ideological definitions and differences between them. This has led to a situation where politicians frequently cross-carpet, switching parties without any apparent ideological or principled reasons.

President Ahmed Bola Tinubu 


The PDP and APC Experience

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) are two of the dominant parties in Nigeria. However, both parties have been criticized for lacking clear ideological definitions. The PDP, which held power for 16 years, failed to fuse party rules that defined its relevance. The APC, which took over in 2015, has also been accused of lacking a clear ideology and instead relying on muscle power to attract other politicians to its fold.


The Problem of Cross-Carpeting

The recent defections of governors from the PDP to the APC have raised serious questions about the state of democracy in Nigeria. The immunity clause, which protects governors from being challenged in court, has made it difficult for parties to challenge the mandates of defecting politicians. This has led to a situation where politicians switch parties without any consequences, further eroding the fabric of Nigeria's democracy.

Former governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki and his deputy Philip shaibu were first A


The Implications for Nigeria's Democracy

The lack of ideological clarity and the prevalence of cross-carpeting have significant implications for Nigeria's democracy. It undermines the integrity of the electoral process and makes it difficult for citizens to hold politicians accountable. It also creates an environment where politicians are more focused on personal gain than serving the public interest.


mpact on Party Dynamics:


- The APC now controls 23 states, while the PDP governs in 10, shifting the balance of power in favor of the ruling party.

- The defections may spark further cross-carpeting, potentially weakening the PDP and strengthening the APC ahead of the 2027 elections 


Implications for Akwa Ibom and Delta States:


- Governor Eno's defection is expected to reshape the political landscape in Akwa Ibom, aligning the state with the APC-led federal government and potentially attracting more federal projects.

- In Delta State, Oborevwori's defection may lead to increased cooperation between the state and federal governments, driving development projects.

Governor Eno Umo of Akwa Ibom state 


Potential Consequences for Other PDP Governors:


 Several PDP governors, including Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, may follow suit and defect to the APC.

- President Tinubu has welcomed the defections, emphasizing that they reflect the will of the electorate and won't lead to a one-party state 


Reactions and Criticisms:


PDP stalwarts have criticized the defections, labeling them "opportunistic" and "betrayals."

- Some analysts see the defections as a sign of the PDP's weakness and internal conflicts.

- Others view the move as a strategic alignment with the federal government, potentially benefiting the states involved 

The Way Forward

To address this crisis, there is a need for political parties to define their ideologies and values clearly. Politicians should be held accountable for their actions, and the electoral process should be strengthened to prevent defections and ensure that politicians are answerable to the people. Ultimately, a more robust and ideologically driven political system is essential for Nigeria's democratic growth and development.

The defections of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno to the All Progressives Congress (APC) have significant implications for Nigeria's political landscape.


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