Defections: Ondo Assembly risks becoming rubber stamp, Civil Society Group warns
By Boye Oyeyemi –
The Coalition of All Civil Society Organisations in Ondo State (CACSOD) has condemned the mass defection of opposition lawmakers in the state House of Assembly to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a major setback for democracy and accountability.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Alo Martins, and Secretary, Ayomide Jayeiola, the group said the development had turned the 26-member Assembly into a one-party chamber, warning that democracy cannot thrive without opposition voices.
According to the group, “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.”
CACSOD described the defection as “a betrayal of the people’s trust”, noting that lawmakers were elected on specific party platforms and should not switch allegiance without seeking a new mandate from voters.
The coalition also urged the National Assembly to strengthen anti-defection laws, saying the current constitutional loophole that permits defections on claims of party division had been “grossly abused” by politicians.
It warned that the collapse of opposition in the Assembly could erode oversight, promote executive dominance and weaken good governance in the state.
“Democracy loses its meaning when every voice in the legislature sings the same tune. For governance to serve the people, there must always be room for dissent, dialogue, and accountability,” CACSOD added.
