The Politics of Defection: Cross-Carpeting and Its Threat to Electoral Legitimacy and Democratic Consolidation in Nigeria

Abstract

The phenomenon of political defection in Nigeria has significant implications for electoral legitimacy and the consolidation of democracy. The study explores the dynamics of party defections and their impact on the political landscape, particularly during electoral cycles. Defections often lead to shifts in party power and influence, raising concerns about the stability of political parties and the integrity of electoral processes. This study examines the factors behind defections, including personal ambitions, ideological shifts, and the pursuit of political survival. It also addresses the repercussions of these defections on public trust in democratic institutions and the overall legitimacy of electoral outcomes. The study relies on Rational Choice Theory, arguing that the frequency and nature of defection have affected the integrity of the electoral process and weakened the institutional development of political parties. By analyzing recent case studies and electoral events, this research highlights underlying factors driving party defections, such as a lack of party ideologies, personal interests, and a weak regulatory framework, and also suggests the need for reforms aimed at addressing the challenges posed by defection, ultimately contributing to a more stable and credible democratic framework in Nigeria. The study concludes by recommending institutional and constitutional reforms, judicial enforcement, and political education as a yardstick to mitigate the growing threat of cross-carpeting in Nigeria.