Maroc - NEWSLINENG.COM.NG - A La Une - 11/Oct 14:53

CACSOD Condemns Mass Defection in Ondo State House of Assembly

The Coalition of All Civil Society Organisations in Ondo State (CACSOD) has expressed deep concern over the recent mass defection of opposition lawmakers in the Ondo State House of Assembly to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). With this development, all 26 members of the State Assembly now belong to a single political party an unhealthy situation for democracy, accountability, and governance in our dear state.A democratic system without an effective opposition is a democracy in name only. Opposition lawmakers are essential for checks and balances, rigorous policy debates, and oversight of the executive arm. When the legislature becomes a one-party chamber, it risks degenerating into a rubber stamp, unable to question policies, demand transparency, or defend citizens’ interests.Governance thrives where dissenting voices exist to challenge, critique, and propose better alternatives. As the saying goes, “Power corrupts when it goes unchecked.”CACSOD views the mass defection as a betrayal of the electorate’s trust. Each lawmaker was elected on a particular party’s platform and manifesto. When they switch parties mid-term without resigning, they violate the social contract that binds them to their constituents. Voters who supported opposition candidates now find themselves represented by members of the ruling party without their consent.Such political opportunism undermines the integrity of elections and erodes citizens’ faith in the democratic process.CACSOD calls on the National Assembly and the ongoing Constitution Review Committee to urgently strengthen the anti-defection provisions in Nigeria’s Constitution, particularly Section 109(1)(g) relating to members of State Houses of Assembly.The current constitutional clause, which allows defections on the grounds of alleged “division” within a party, has been grossly abused by politicians who manufacture or exaggerate internal crises to justify crossing over to the ruling side.This loophole must be removed or narrowed to preserve the sanctity of electoral mandates.We further call for a constitutional amendment that makes it mandatory for any elected official whether legislator, governor, or president who wishes to defect from the party under which they were elected to first resign from office and seek a fresh mandate under their new platform.Anything short of this continues to reward political indiscipline and undermine party ideology, loyalty, and accountability.The total collapse of opposition in the Ondo State House of Assembly portends serious danger for the principles of separation of powers and accountability.Without dissenting voices, Oversight on the executive arm becomes weak or nonexistent, Public funds may be mismanaged without scrutiny, Critical voices and alternative views are stifled, Citizens lose a forum where their grievances can be echoed.Democracy flourishes when the legislature mirrors the diversity of public opinion, not when it echoes only the ruling party’s agenda.CACSOD calls on all Ondo State citizens and voters to be vigilant and discerning in electing their representatives. We must no longer reward political carpet-crossers who prioritize personal gain over public service. Voters should evaluate candidates based on integrity, consistency, and demonstrated commitment to democratic principles, not mere party convenience.As civil society, we will continue to monitor the actions of the State Assembly and ensure that governance remains accountable to the people, even in the absence of formal opposition.Our demands are The National Assembly should fast-track the ongoing constitutional review to close all loopholes that allow opportunistic defections.2. Any elected official who defects should automatically vacate his or her seat.3. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be empowered to conduct immediate by-elections in such instances.4. Civil society and citizens must continue to demand accountability and transparency in governance at all levels.CACSOD reaffirms its commitment to defending democracy, strengthening institutions, and amplifying citizens’ voices in Ondo State and Nigeria at large.Democracy loses its meaning when every voice in the legislature sings the same tune.For governance to serve the people, there must always be room for dissent, dialogue, and accountability.E-signed Alo Martins Chairman Ayomide JayeiolaSecretary