The recent defection of 27 Rivers State House of Assembly lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressive Party (APC) has sparked controversy.
Uche Harris Okonkwo, a federal lawmaker from Anambra State, who is not aligned with either party, has strongly criticized this move. He believes it undermines the democratic process and violates the constitution.
Okonkwo argues that allowing legislators to defect to another party within a year of their term without consequences goes against the spirit of the law. He emphasizes the importance of upholding the integrity of the legislative institution and respecting the rule of law.
He urges the defected lawmakers to resign from their positions and join the APC as ordinary members, rather than clinging to their seats obtained under the PDP. He sees their actions as a betrayal of the trust placed in them by their constituents and a disservice to the democratic principles they swore to uphold.
Furthermore, Okonkwo condemns the broader trend of political defections in Nigeria, citing reports of Labour Party legislators defecting to the PDP.
He warns against the detrimental effects of excessive executive manipulation in influencing these defections, which he views as a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
Ultimately, Okonkwo calls for a restoration of honor and integrity in politics, emphasizing the importance of respecting the constitution and the rule of law. He sees this as essential for the well-being and stability of the country’s democratic system.
