Can NDC’s Anti-Defection Oath Curb Political Defections?

In Nigeria, politicians often switch parties during election season. This practice undermines political maturity and risks instability. The Nigeria Democratic Congress now requires candidates to sign an Anti-Defection and Loyalty Oath under Article 16 of its constitution. The measure seeks to discourage elected officials from defecting or cross-carpeting after winning office. Critics point out that the party’s presidential and vice-presidential candidates were exempted from the oath. Such exceptions raise questions about fairness and the long-term impact of this policy. To build stronger institutions, parties should extend the oath to all members, impose stiffer rules on party registration, restrict defectors from contesting immediately, and adopt clear, people-driven ideologies.

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