The lawmaker representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Constituency of Abia State, Obi Aguocha, has raised alarm over the increasing wave of defections from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), warning that Nigeria's democratic system faces significant threats.
Speaking during a live interview on Arise TV, Aguocha revealed that the APC is merely four defections away from securing absolute control of the Senate, a development that would enable the ruling party to unilaterally drive legislative decisions without meaningful opposition.
"Look at the number of defections happening every single day, mostly within the PDP ranks to the APC. It diminishes the numbers we can muster to block or pass legislation," he stated. "If you go to the Senate, they need just four more defections and they can do whatever they want."
The lawmaker expressed concern that the steady migration of legislators, particularly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is rapidly eroding the opposition's ability to influence or block crucial bills. This shift threatens to leave Nigeria's legislative process vulnerable to domination by a single political entity.
Despite this troubling trend, Aguocha maintained optimism about the integrity of many lawmakers across both chambers of the National Assembly. He expressed confidence that in the event of a major constitutional crisis, legislators from all political affiliations would prioritize their oath to uphold the Constitution.
"I believe the members of the National Assembly, both in the Senate and the House of Representatives, are objective people. If push comes to shove, they will stand in defense of the Constitution," Aguocha affirmed.
Political analysts have noted that Aguocha's comments highlight a growing concern about the health of Nigeria's multiparty democracy. The increasing dominance of the APC through defections could potentially weaken democratic checks and balances, centralize power, and threaten transparency and accountability in governance.
With the 2027 general elections approaching, observers believe the current momentum of defections could significantly impact not only the legislative dynamics in Abuja but also influence the outcome of upcoming elections.