John Odigie-Oyegun, a prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has voiced concern about the growing trend of political leaders defecting, resigning, and switching parties, characterising the development as a reflection of more serious issues with Nigeria’s political system.
Speaking on Sunday in Benin, Edo State, the former governor said that the country’s political class’s commitment to national development and citizen welfare is called into question by the frequent switching of politicians between parties after disagreements.
According to Odigie-Oyegun, the increasing number of political leaders quitting their parties indicates that the country’s democratic system still has fundamental problems.
He claims that many politicians’ actions don’t show a sincere desire to address the issues facing Nigerians, such as insecurity and economic hardship.
He maintained that much of the political realignment that is currently taking place ahead of the 2027 general elections would not be occurring if political actors were genuinely committed to saving the nation and enhancing the lives of its citizens.
According to the ADC stalwart, the political class frequently fails to show a genuine commitment to the advancement of the country and seems disengaged from the realities that ordinary Nigerians face.
“Many of the developments we are witnessing as preparations for the 2027 elections gather pace would not have emerged if political leaders were genuinely driven by the desire to rescue the nation,” he stated.
He insisted that rather than engaging in political manoeuvres that don’t significantly improve the lives of the populace, efforts should be focused on addressing urgent national issues.
Additionally, Odigie-Oyegun called on opposition leaders nationwide to consider their motivations and assess whether their actions are genuinely intended to lessen Nigerians’ suffering.
He emphasised that rather than pursuing limited political goals, opposition leaders must continue to concentrate on finding answers to the nation’s problems.
The former governor expressed optimism about the opposition’s chances despite his reservations, saying that fair competition and robust institutions could foster the circumstances required for a shift in political leadership.
He continued by saying that if the electoral process and state institutions function in a fair and transparent manner, the opposition can still successfully oppose the ruling party.
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