The Coalition of All Civil Society Organisations in Ondo State (CACSOD) has condemned the recent mass defection of opposition lawmakers in the state House of Assembly to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The two remaining opposition lawmakers of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) defected to the APC on Thursday.

CACSOD made the condemnation in a statement by its state chairman, Alo Martins, and secretary, Ayomide Jayeiola, on Saturday in Akure.

The coalition, which said all 26 members of the state assembly now belonged to a single political party, explained that the development was an unhealthy situation for democracy, accountability, and governance in the state.

According to it, the absence of opposition is the death of democracy.

“A democratic system without an effective opposition is a democracy in name only. Opposition lawmakers are essential for checks and balances, rigorous policy debates, and oversight of the executive arm.

“When the legislature becomes a one-party chamber, it risks degenerating into a rubber stamp, unable to question policies, demand transparency, or defend citizens’ interests.

“So, governance thrives where dissenting voices exist to challenge, critique, and propose better alternatives. As the saying goes, ‘Power corrupts when it goes unchecked’,” the group said.

CACSOD also said it viewed the mass defection as a betrayal of the electorate’s trust, saying each lawmaker was elected on a particular party’s platform and manifesto.

The civil society, which said the lawmakers switched parties mid-term without resigning, described the move as a violation of the social contract that binds them to their constituents.

“Voters who supported opposition candidates now find themselves represented by members of the ruling party without their consent.

“Such political opportunism undermines the integrity of elections and erodes citizens’ faith in the democratic process,” the group said.

The coalition, therefore, called on the National Assembly and the ongoing Constitution Review Committee to urgently strengthen the anti-defection provisions in Nigeria’s Constitution, particularly Section 109(1)(g) relating to members of state houses of assembly.

CACSOD also said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be empowered to conduct immediate by-elections in such instances, while any elected official who defects should automatically vacate his or her seat.

It, however, said civil societies and citizens must continue to demand accountability and transparency in governance at all levels.

(NAN)