Abuja: A member of the House of Representatives, Cyriacus Umeha, has attributed the ongoing wave of defections from opposition parties to the ruling party to a prevailing lack of leadership. Umeha, representing Ezeagu/Udi Federal Constituency, expressed his concerns during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), highlighting the leadership crisis plaguing opposition parties.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Umeha pointed out that the Labour Party, of which he is a member, is currently experiencing a crisis at both the ward and national levels. He also noted similar issues within the Peoples Democratic Party and the New Nigeria People’s Party. Umeha emphasized the necessity for opposition parties to unite and present a cohesive front, suggesting that such unity could help curb the trend of defections.
He further elaborated that the absence of credible and unified leadership within the opposition has compelled members to seek stability by joining the ruling party. Umeha expressed regret over the leadership disputes within the Labour Party, acknowledging that these issues have caused divisions and weakened the party’s structure.
Despite the challenges, Umeha reaffirmed his commitment to delivering democratic dividends to his constituents through various developmental projects. He cited the provision of water to rural communities and the construction of rural roads as some of the initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods.
Additionally, Umeha urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to promptly address the issue of vacant seats in the National Assembly. He criticized INEC for failing to conduct elections within the constitutionally mandated 90-day period, describing this oversight as detrimental to Nigeria’s democratic process.
NAN reports that the National Assembly has been witnessing a significant wave of defections, predominantly from opposition parties to the ruling party.
