From Staff Writer
Senator Neda Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, has sought to allay fears that the growing influence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) signals the emergence of a one-party state, asserting that the development does not pose a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking in a recent interview, Senator Imasuen emphasised that defection between political parties is a constitutional right under the freedom of association, and should not be misinterpreted as a democratic backslide.
“Defection is not a crime,” Imasuen stated. “Our constitution upholds the right to freedom of movement and association. No party can lawfully prevent an individual from joining, and people are free to align with whichever political platform they choose.”
He attributed the APC’s rising dominance to the internal disarray within opposition parties, rather than any deliberate attempt to monopolise political power. Drawing historical parallels, Imasuen recalled a time when the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) held near-total sway over Nigerian politics without similar accusations of a one-party system.
“There was a time when PDP governed nearly every state. It wasn’t described as a one-party state then. What we’re seeing now is a shift in allegiance towards a party perceived as more stable,” he explained. “With the PDP embroiled in internal disputes and the Labour Party in even worse condition, it is unsurprising that politicians are gravitating towards a more viable platform.”
On the criticism that the National Assembly has become subservient to the executive, Imasuen rejected the notion that lawmakers act as mere rubber stamps, suggesting instead that cooperation between the legislative and executive branches is being misrepresented.
“The term ‘rubber stamp’ has been used even before the current 10th Senate. But in truth, if there is a constructive relationship between the arms of government, it should not be viewed with suspicion,” he argued. “When a bill comes before us, whether it originates from the executive or a fellow legislator, we assess it on its merit, not its source.”
Addressing recent concerns over the proliferation of bills proposing new universities and institutions, Imasuen defended the right of lawmakers to introduce such legislation, while acknowledging funding constraints as a legitimate challenge.
“Every senator has the constitutional right to propose a bill. That is fundamental to our mandate,” he said. “Whether the budget can support it is another matter. If funding is unavailable, the bill remains on paper. That has always been the reality – this is not unique to the 10th Senate.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming National Security Summit, the senator expressed confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to act decisively on the recommendations, contrasting his approach with that of previous administrations.
“In the past, security summits came and went without any follow-up. But this President is different. He takes national security seriously and I believe he will act on the summit’s outcomes,” Imasuen affirmed.
He urged national cohesion in addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, commending the current administration’s willingness to make tough but necessary decisions for the country’s progress.
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