Beyond Defection To APC: When Party Membership Demands Loyalty

Governor Eno’s move was not an isolated event. In Nigeria’s fluid political environment, such mass defections are often triggered by a mix of personal ambition, political survival, and the pursuit of patronage. For many politicians, especially those whose livelihoods are tied to political appointments, aligning with the ruling party is a rational strategy to remain relevant and secure access to state resources. This dynamic was evident in Akwa Ibom, where several defectors followed the governor to the APC, while a handful, including some commissioners and House of Assembly members, chose to resign or stay loyal to the PDP.

Party loyalty in Nigeria is a complex, often misunderstood concept. For some, it is transactional – a means to an end, shaped by the promise of appointments, contracts, and empowerment. For others, it is about shared values, collective vision, and the discipline required to promote the party’s ideals, even when personal interests are at stake. The APC in Akwa Ibom, like many parties before it, now faces the challenge of distinguishing between those who have joined for convenience and those who are truly committed to the party’s cause.

Loyalty, in its truest sense, is not about blind allegiance to individuals or godfathers, but about upholding the principles and vision of the party, even when it is inconvenient or costly. It is about working tirelessly for the party’s success, supporting its candidates, and making sacrifices for the collective good.

History shows that superficial loyalty—rooted in self-interest rather than conviction- can be detrimental to party cohesion and electoral success. The APC itself has faced internal strife and disillusionment when loyalists felt neglected or unrewarded, as seen in the aftermath of the 2023 general elections. When parties fail to recognise and reward genuine loyalty, they risk alienating their most dedicated members and creating a culture where support is easily bought and sold to the highest bidder.

This lack of ideological commitment is not unique to the APC. Most Nigerian parties lack clear manifestos or policy goals, making it easy for politicians to switch allegiances without fundamentally changing their beliefs or priorities. As a result, defections are often seen as routine rather than acts of deep conviction, undermining public trust in the political process.

For the APC in Akwa Ibom, the influx of new members presents both an opportunity and a test. The party must go beyond merely swelling its ranks; it must cultivate a culture of genuine loyalty and commitment. This means:

    • Clear Ideological Direction: The party must articulate its vision and policy priorities, giving members something meaningful to rally around beyond just access to power.

    • Robust Reward System: Recognising and rewarding hard work and loyalty is essential. When members see that dedication leads to tangible benefits, they are more likely to commit wholeheartedly to the party’s cause.

    • Internal Democracy: Ensuring that all members, old and new, have a voice in party affairs helps to build a sense of ownership and shared responsibility.

    • Accountability: The party should hold members accountable for their actions, promoting discipline and discouraging opportunistic behaviour.

For those who have recently joined the APC, the real work begins now. Party membership is not just about attending meetings or wearing the party’s colours. It demands active participation in grassroots mobilisation, support for party candidates, and unwavering commitment to the party’s success in future elections. Defectors must prove, through their actions, that their loyalty is genuine and not merely a strategy for personal gain.

Governor Eno himself has emphasised that his decision to join the APC was not a rejection of his past affiliations but a forward-looking move aimed at advancing the state’s development agenda. He has called on his appointees and supporters to align with the new direction, making it clear that continued service in his administration requires absolute loyalty to the party’s ideals.

Beyond the immediate concerns of loyalty, the APC in Akwa Ibom must focus on building a robust party structure that can withstand the pressures of political competition and internal dissent. This involves investing in party education, so that both new and old members understand the party’s history, values, and goals. Regular training sessions, workshops, and seminars can help foster a sense of belonging and purpose.

Additionally, the party needs to create transparent processes for selecting candidates and allocating resources. When members feel that opportunities are distributed fairly, they are more likely to remain loyal, even in the face of setbacks. This transparency also helps to prevent the emergence of factions and the perception that the party is controlled by a select few.

True loyalty is often built from the ground up. The APC must prioritise grassroots engagement, ensuring that its message resonates with ordinary citizens and not just political elites. By involving local communities in decision-making and addressing their concerns, the party can build a broad base of support that extends beyond the political class.

Grassroots engagement also means empowering young people and women, who are often marginalised in party politics. By creating avenues for their participation and leadership, the APC can tap into fresh ideas and energy, making the party more dynamic and responsive to changing realities.

Consistency and integrity are the bedrock of enduring loyalty. The APC must strive to be consistent in its policies and actions, avoiding the temptation to make promises it cannot keep. When party leaders act with integrity and keep their word, they inspire trust and loyalty among members and the wider public.

This also means addressing issues of corruption and impunity within the party. By holding members accountable and promoting ethical behaviour, the APC can set itself apart as a party that stands for something more than just the pursuit of power.

While the APC celebrates its new members, it must also be wary of the risks associated with rapid expansion. Without a strong foundation of shared values and disciplined leadership, the party could become vulnerable to internal divisions and instability—problems that have plagued Nigerian parties for decades. The lesson is clear: loyalty must be earned, nurtured, and rewarded, not assumed or taken for granted.

The recent defections in Akwa Ibom are a reminder that in Nigerian politics, the lines between party loyalty and personal ambition are often blurred. Yet, for any party to thrive, especially in a competitive environment, it must demand and cultivate genuine loyalty from its members. This means fostering a culture of commitment, discipline, and shared purpose—qualities that go beyond the mere act of defection.

The APC’s future success in Akwa Ibom will depend on its ability to transform new members into true party loyalists, capable of putting the collective interest above personal gain. Only then can the party hope to build a lasting legacy and win the trust of the people it seeks to serve.

Conclusion

Defection may open the door to new opportunities, but it is loyalty that keeps the house standing. For the APC in Akwa Ibom, the challenge is not just to welcome new members, but to inspire in them a genuine commitment to the party’s ideals and vision. By building a culture of loyalty, transparency, and inclusiveness, the party can position itself as a true vehicle for positive change—one that endures long after the excitement of defection has faded.