DEFECTION AND DEMOCRACY IN THE NIGERIA STATE: AN APPRAISAL

This study critically examines the impact of political defection on Nigeria democratic system from 2015 to 2025. Thus, the transition to democracy brought great expectations for political stability, good governance, and adherence to democratic principles. However, the frequent defection of politicians from one party to another has raised concerns about the stability and ideological coherence of Nigeria’s party system. This paper argues that political defection has contributed to weak democratic institutions, eroded political accountability, and encouraged opportunistic political behavior. Defections are often driven by self-interest rather than policy differences or ideological shifts, leading to instability in party structures and governance. The study adopts a qualitative approach, relying on historical and contemporary analyses of political defections in Nigeria. It discusses the constitutional provisions meant to regulate party defections and their ineffectiveness in curbing the trend. Rational choice theory was adopted in this research in order to understand why politicians defect from one party to another. This theory postulates that political actors are rational individuals who make decisions based on the costs and benefits associated with their actions. The findings underscore the urgent need to address political opportunism and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic framework to foster stability and good governance. The paper recommends urgent electoral reforms, stricter constitutional amendments to regulate defections, and the establishment of a more ideologically driven political culture.