Cyriacus Umeha, a House of Representatives member, blames leadership crises within opposition parties for defections to the ruling party. He emphasizes the need for party unity to address this issue and advocates for swift action by INEC regarding electoral vacancies. Umeha remains committed to serving his constituents despite the challenges faced by his party.
A member of the House of Representatives, Cyriacus Umeha, attributes the ongoing defections from opposition parties to the ruling party to a significant leadership crisis within the opposition. Specifically, Umeha, who represents the Ezeagu/Udi Federal Constituency, highlighted that the Labour Party, to which he belongs, is currently experiencing turmoil at both the ward and national levels. He noted that similar issues plague the Peoples Democratic Party and the New Nigeria People’s Party, culminating in unstable leadership across the opposition spectrum.
Umeha emphasized the importance of unity among opposition parties, asserting that a collective voice is essential to halt the trend of defections. He maintained that politicians generally prefer to operate under a cohesive and robust party structure. He further indicated that the absence of credible leadership is compelling many members to defect to the ruling party in search of stability.
Regrettably, Umeha pointed out the internal conflicts within the Labour Party, which he believes have led to divisions and a loss of strength for the party. He remarked that the Labour Party was once viewed as a significant alternative with high expectations from Nigerians but is now mired in crisis. Despite these challenges, he reaffirmed his commitment to delivering democratic benefits to his constituents, mentioning completed projects such as providing water and improving rural infrastructure.
In addition, Umeha called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to promptly address vacant seats in the National Assembly, criticizing the body for not conducting elections within the constitutionally mandated 90 days, a delay he views as detrimental to Nigeria’s democracy. Reports indicate a notable trend of defections from opposition parties to the ruling party within the National Assembly, reflecting ongoing political instability.
In summary, Lawmaker Cyriacus Umeha highlights a significant leadership crisis within opposition parties as the main cause of recent defections to the ruling party. He calls for unity among these parties to prevent further losses and underscores the importance of delivering essential services to his constituents. Umeha also urges INEC to swiftly address electoral vacancies, stressing the need for adherence to constitutional timelines to enhance the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.
Original Source: nannews.ng
