By Abdullahi Inuwa
In the intricate game of politics, loyalty and membership retention are crucial. True politicians understand that every defection represents not just a loss in numbers, but a strategic disadvantage that can shift the balance of power. This is why seasoned politicians feel the pain of losing key figures from their party.
Defections weaken party structures, reduce electoral strength, and signal internal cracks. Political parties are built on the collective strength of their members, and losing a single influential figure can create a ripple effect that impacts grassroots support, donor confidence, and even election outcomes.
A prime example of this is the potential defection of someone like Nasir El-Rufai, a former governor of Kaduna State and a seasoned technocrat. His presence in a political party brings structure, strategic planning, and a significant support base. If he were to defect, it would be a major loss, not just in terms of numbers but in terms of intellectual and strategic contributions.
The history of Nigerian politics is filled with examples of how defection has altered political dynamics. In 2013, when major political figures left the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to join the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC), it shifted the balance of power and led to the historic defeat of PDP in 2015.
For true politicians, the goal is to build a party where members feel valued, included, and committed to the party’s long-term vision. This is why political reconciliation, internal democracy, and strategic negotiations are essential. No serious politician simply waves off the defection of a major player. Instead, they work behind the scenes to prevent it, resolve grievances, and maintain party unity.
In today’s political landscape, dismissing the departure of strong party members is a costly mistake. The right approach is to recognize their importance, address their concerns, and ensure that the party remains a solid force. After all, politics is about numbers, influence, and strategy. Those who understand this never take defection lightly.
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