Senator Ireti Kingibe has cautioned that Nigeria’s democratic system could face serious risks if political power continues to concentrate within a single dominant party, warning that a vibrant opposition remains essential to maintaining accountability and balance.
Speaking during an interview on the Frontline programme on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, the Federal Capital Territory lawmaker explained that her recent move from the Labour Party to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was driven by a broader effort to strengthen opposition politics within the National Assembly.
According to the senator, the decision reflects growing concern among lawmakers about what she described as a gradual drift toward one-party dominance in Nigeria’s political system.
Kingibe’s defection came alongside a group of senators who recently aligned with the ADC in what observers describe as one of the most notable political shifts within the Senate in recent months.
Among the lawmakers who moved to the party are Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo, Binos Dauda Yaroe, Austin Akobundu and Lawal Adamu Usman from the Peoples Democratic Party.
Other defectors include Victor Umeh and Tony Nwoye from the Labour Party, as well as Enyinnaya Abaribe of the All Progressives Grand Alliance.
Kingibe argued that the realignment reflects a growing attempt by lawmakers to build a credible opposition bloc capable of counterbalancing the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Responding to criticisms surrounding the defections, the FCT senator accused some political actors of applying selective scrutiny depending on the party involved.
She noted that numerous lawmakers have defected to the ruling APC in the current Senate without attracting comparable criticism or threats regarding their seats.
According to her, the reaction to the ADC defections reveals deeper anxieties about the emergence of a stronger opposition platform.
Kingibe maintained that the purpose of the move is not merely partisan but rooted in protecting Nigeria’s democratic structure by ensuring that alternative voices remain visible within the political system.
Labour Party Crisis Influenced Decision
The senator also cited persistent leadership disputes within the Labour Party as a major factor behind her decision to leave the platform.
She explained that prolonged factional struggles within the party have weakened its operational capacity and made it increasingly difficult for elected officials to function effectively.
According to Kingibe, the internal crisis has even affected electoral participation in some areas, including the Federal Capital Territory where the party reportedly struggled to field candidates during recent local government elections.
She added that a large portion of her political support base in the FCT has since aligned with her move to the ADC.
Kingibe also expressed reservations about proposed amendments to the Electoral Act that seek to criminalise dual party membership.
While acknowledging the need for political order, she argued that excessive legislation governing party affiliation could undermine democratic freedoms.
The senator warned that restricting political mobility might hinder the growth of emerging parties and weaken the broader opposition landscape.
For Nigeria’s democracy to thrive, she said, political actors must be allowed a reasonable degree of flexibility in aligning with platforms capable of representing their constituents effectively.
Beyond party politics, Kingibe reiterated her legislative focus on increasing women’s participation in governance.
She revealed that she has sponsored a Gender Equal Opportunity Bill proposing that at least 35 percent of elective and appointive positions be reserved for women as part of an affirmative action strategy.
According to her, improving women’s representation is essential not only for equity but also for producing better policy outcomes.
She argued that women must have a stronger presence in legislative decision-making processes, particularly on issues that directly affect their social and economic welfare.
Reflecting on her work in the Senate, Kingibe said her office has implemented more than 50 constituency projects across the Federal Capital Territory.
These initiatives include water supply programmes, road rehabilitation efforts and skill acquisition projects aimed at empowering residents.
She added that her legislative work has also involved sponsoring bills, raising motions and participating in oversight activities aimed at strengthening governance.
Looking ahead, the senator described the emergence of the ADC as a potentially significant development in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
According to her, the party is gradually positioning itself as a coalition platform capable of bringing together smaller opposition groups.
While acknowledging that the movement is still developing, she said the growing alignment around the ADC demonstrates the determination of some lawmakers to prevent Nigeria from drifting toward a one-party system.
For Kingibe, the survival of Nigeria’s democracy ultimately depends on maintaining a political environment where competing ideas and alternative leadership options can thrive.
Leave a comment