The Constitutional and Political Implications of Mass Defections to the APC in Nigeria
Abstract The recent surge in defections of high-profile political figures to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling party, raises critical constitutional, legal, and democratic concerns. This article examines the legal framework governing defections in Nigeria, the loopholes exploited by defectors, and the broader consequences on political accountability, party democracy, and the rule of law. While party-switching is not new in Nigeria, the scale and frequency of recent movements warrant a more robust legal and […]
Defections Without Ideology: What the APC Wave Reveals About Nigerian Politics
In recent months, Nigeria has witnessed a fresh and growing wave of defections by prominent political figures into the All Progressives Congress (APC). From state governors and federal lawmakers to grassroots political influencers, the exodus from opposition parties into the ruling APC appears not just widespread but also strategic. While party-switching is not new in Nigeria’s political culture, the sheer frequency and momentum of recent defections have raised important questions about the health of the […]
The Professional Etiquette of Titles: Why Nigerian Lawyers Cannot Use “Barrister” as a Prefix While Engineers Use “Engr.”
Introduction In Nigeria, professional titles are a significant part of identity and recognition. However, the legal profession stands apart from others in its strict prohibition against using “Barrister” as a prefix before a lawyer’s name. This restriction, upheld by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the courts, contrasts with other professions—such as engineering and architecture—where prefixes like “Engr.” and “Arc.” are commonly accepted. This article examines: The legal basis for banning “Barrister” as a prefix. Why other professions (Engr., Arc., Dr.) freely use […]
Can Nigeria Become Un-Corrupt?
Corruption in Nigeria has long been a pervasive and deeply rooted challenge, casting a shadow over governance, economic growth, and public trust. From inflated contracts and embezzled public funds to nepotism and electoral malpractice, corruption permeates virtually every sector. Yet the question remains: Can Nigeria become un-corrupt? While the journey is long and difficult, the answer is not an outright “no.” With sustained reforms, strong institutions, and collective national will, Nigeria can significantly reduce — […]
Nigeria and the Curse of Institutionalised Corruption
In Nigeria, corruption is not merely a vice—it is a way of life, embedded deep into the operating systems of state. It is institutionalised, sustained by complicit actors across all branches and levels of government, and normalized in a way that has numbed the collective conscience of a nation. From the police force to the judiciary, anti-corruption bodies to schools, hospitals, customs, and public procurement offices, corruption is both the thread and the fabric of […]