Written by Joy Act
Concerns Over Nigeria’s Political Landscape Under Tinubu
In recent months, opposition leaders have raised alarms about Nigeria’s potential shift towards a one-party state under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The influx of political defections is evident, but the harsher reality is that Nigeria may already resemble a one-party system, albeit under different names. This observation isn’t merely a reflection of one political faction eliminating another; rather, the distinctions among parties have become increasingly negligible, fluid, and negotiable, lacking substantive ideological differences. It’s important to clarify that I do not intend to vilify defectors or blame the president; he adeptly navigates the existing system, which performs precisely as it was designed to do.
The Role of Political Identity in the United States
Having followed American politics for years—not through policy analyses or academic discussions, but through narrative-driven television like *The West Wing* and *House of Cards*—I’ve gained insight into how deeply party affiliation shapes individuals’ perspectives. In the U.S., Democrats and Republicans embody more than voting tendencies; they reflect distinct worldviews. A lifelong Democrat who switches allegiances faces scrutiny, as the transition raises questions about fundamental beliefs. In the same vein, political affiliation in the UK signifies deep-rooted traditions and cultural significance. Such shifts prompt discussions about how one’s ideological framework has evolved, encompassing a broader concept known as platform politics, where party principles take precedence over individual ideologies.
The Absence of Ideological Foundations in Nigerian Politics
Now, let’s examine Nigeria’s political landscape. What ideological principles do the National Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress uphold? The conspicuous lack of clarity surrounding their foundational beliefs is striking. Nigeria does not engage in planned politics; instead, we witness a form of clientelistic politics where political parties serve as instruments rather than embodying strong value systems. Parties intervene when they meet personal objectives and withdraw once they no longer serve those ends. Often, the next political vehicle a defector chooses is not drastically different from the previous one, but merely aligned with the current power dynamics.
The Pragmatism of Political Defections
This environment complicates accountability for those who change positions. Without a clear ideological framework, what exactly is being betrayed? The principles that political parties could uphold are vague, leaving many to question the significance of defections framed as acts of disloyalty. In reality, these shifts are often strategic, calculated moves aligned with a system that prioritizes power access over honoring ideological commitments. While this may not render the system ideal, it shifts the focus of the discussion. The core issue lies within the structural integrity of the political framework itself, not merely the actions of individual politicians. This matters deeply, for if political parties lack coherent ideologies, citizens will end up voting based on personalities rather than concrete policies.
Building a Trustworthy Political Culture
If Nigeria seeks to cultivate a political culture rooted in trust, it is essential to shift the dialogue from individual actions to systemic structures. We must address what it means for a party to advocate for meaningful principles and how those principles can endure beyond electoral cycles. Until then, we should resist the allure of easy cynicism. Amid the noise created by political defections, survival tactics, and constant repositioning, it’s crucial to remember that systems do not exist in isolation. Many people remain committed to improving the situation not because they see an inviting system but due to an intrinsic drive to persevere. Although the political environment may be imperfect and fraught with compromises, there is sufficient reason for hope and enduring efforts.
*Joy Akut is an author and special assistant to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives on Youth and Women’s Affairs. She writes from Abuja.
