Prominent activist, Aisha Yesufu, has described political defections as one of the biggest problems facing Nigeria’s democracy.

In a post shared on X, Yesufu criticized the way politicians freely jump from one political party to another, especially when trying to align with the ruling party at the state or federal level.

She argued that while freedom of association allows politicians to defect, there should be laws preventing them from taking along positions or benefits they won under their previous parties.

“Yes, you have the right to move from one party to another,” she wrote, “but whatever you won under your former party should be left behind.”

According to her, without such legal safeguards, the unhealthy culture of defections will continue, weakening party structures and discouraging accountability.

The activist stressed that Nigeria must adopt codified laws to address the loophole, insisting that it is the only way to strengthen political institutions and reduce opportunism among politicians.

Her comments add to the ongoing debate about party loyalty and electoral reforms in Nigeria, where defections have become a recurring trend after elections.