Cross-Carpeting and Governance in Nigeria: Party Loyalty Versus Political Survival

Abstract

Political defections have become a defining characteristic of Nigeria’s democratic experience since the return to civilian rule in 1999. While party switching is not inherently incompatible with democratic practice, its frequency and motivation in Nigeria raise serious concerns about democratic accountability, party institutionalization, and political stability. This article interrogates whether political defections in Nigeria are driven by genuine ideological realignment or by personal and strategic interests of political elites. Drawing on rational choice theory and party system institutionalization theory, the study argues that defections in Nigeria are overwhelmingly motivated by self-interest rather than ideological commitment. The article situates political defections within the broader context of weak party ideology, fragile internal party democracy, and declining public trust in political institutions. Existing empirical studies indicate that Nigerian political parties are largely indistinguishable in ideological orientation, rendering party affiliation a tactical instrument rather than a principled commitment. As a result, frequent defections undermine voter confidence, weaken opposition politics, and erode democratic accountability. The article further contends that the normalization of defections reflects deeper structural