The President of ECK Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation, Dr. Emeka Kalu, has condemned Nigerian politicians for their lack of ideology, which has led to frequent defections from one political party to another.
In a statement issued on Friday, Kalu warned that the continued political cross-carpeting is damaging Nigeria’s image on the international stage. He expressed concern that as the 2027 general elections approach, numerous Federal legislators have abandoned the political parties that originally sponsored their election to parliament.
Kalu expressed disappointment that many politicians who defected cited non-existent crises within their former parties. He argued that these so-called crises were often deliberately created by the politicians to justify their departure.
The ECK Foundation President also raised concerns about the potential long-term effects of this trend, noting that the lack of transparency and integrity among politicians could undermine Nigeria’s political system. He further emphasized that the country’s reputation was at risk if the situation continued.
Kalu pointed to the upcoming Anambra State governorship election as an example of how political defections are destabilizing the system. Politicians in the state have been switching parties in pursuit of personal ambitions, causing further instability in the political landscape.
He added that the frequent defection of politicians leads to a loss of confidence among party faithful who no longer believe in their leaders’ ability to provide exemplary leadership. Kalu expressed frustration over the perception that party politics in Nigeria has become a means of amassing wealth, with politicians abandoning their grassroots supporters in search of personal gain.
Kalu reiterated that politics should not be viewed as a career but rather as a platform for public service, where elected officials are expected to act in the best interests of the people. He lamented that, instead, politics in Nigeria has become a lucrative avenue for those seeking to enrich themselves, leaving citizens in frustration and poverty.
In conclusion, Kalu urged Nigerians to be cautious of politicians who frequently switch parties. He advised the electorate to carefully evaluate the character, mindset, and behavior of candidates before casting their votes to prevent further defections.
He said: “In the face of this worrisome development, party faithful in their large numbers lose confidence in their ability to further demonstrate exemplary leadership if supported and re-elected.
“It is quite unfortunate, disappointing and highly unprofessional that party politics is now taken as a means of amassing wealth considering the mindset of most Nigeria politicians.
“To enrich one’s pocket against the will of the people, politicians often abandon their grassroot parties to join another political party inconsiderate of the values, trust and confidence their supporters repose on them.”
