POLITICAL DEFECTIONS AND THE EROSION OF CHECKS AND BALANCES IN NIGERIA

Amadi, Cletus Okechukwu and Nwafor, Alphonsus Onyeachonam POLITICAL DEFECTIONS AND THE EROSION OF CHECKS AND BALANCES IN NIGERIA. International Journal of Political and Social Sciences, 10 (5). pp. 1-14. ISSN 2994-0893

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Abstract

This study investigates the impact of political defections on the erosion of institutional checks and balances in Nigeria’s democratic system. Using a qualitative content analysis approach, data were sourced from verified instruments including newspaper articles (Premium Times, Daily Trust), legal documents (1999 Constitution, Ifedayo Abegunde v. Ondo State House of Assembly), judicial reports, INEC briefings, National Assembly Hansards, and publications by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) and International Republican Institute (IRI). Findings reveal that political defections are largely opportunistic, often driven by personal ambition and access to power rather than ideological conviction. Mass defections particularly into the ruling party undermine legislative oversight, collapse opposition strength, and tilt power disproportionately in favor of the executive. Furthermore, judicial inconsistency in enforcing anti-defection laws and INEC’s limited enforcement capacity have created a culture of impunity. The complicity of party structures and weak institutional safeguards have normalized defection as a political strategy, eroding public trust in democratic accountability. The study recommends constitutional reform to clarify and enforce anti-defection provisions, empower INEC, and promote ideological discipline within political parties. Enhanced civic education and consistent judicial interpretation are also critical to restoring institutional integrity. Overall, unchecked political defections pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic consolidation, and necessitate urgent structural and legal interventions.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: J Political Science > JA Political science (General)
Divisions: Faculty of Arts > Faculty of Law > Faculty of Management and Social Sciences > Faculty of Education
Depositing User: Uchenna Eneogwe
Date Deposited: 06 May 2026 09:58
Last Modified: 06 May 2026 09:58
URI: http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/5646

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