Senator Eteng Jonah Williams, representing Cross River Central Senatorial District and a former Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, has stated that politicians have the right to choose any political platform to actualize their ambitions, describing recent concerns over mass defections as unnecessary.
Speaking to journalists after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s address to the special joint session of the National Assembly in commemoration of Democracy Day, Senator Eteng addressed fears that Nigeria might be sliding into a one-party state following the increasing defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
He noted that such movements are within the constitutional rights of individuals and should not be viewed with suspicion.
“I don’t know why people should be bothered. If your party is not doing well and you feel you will not be fulfilled there, you have every right to change,” Senator Eteng stated.
He further emphasized that no one is being coerced to join the APC or any other party, stressing that defection is a matter of personal conviction and freedom of association, as guaranteed by the Constitution.
“The APC is not forcing anyone to join. It is a self-decision. The Constitution is clear freedom of association. So, no crime is committed when someone decides to switch parties,” he added.
Senator Eteng concluded by saying:“Even if all Nigerians say it’s only APC, so be it.”
His comments echoed President Tinubu’s reassurance that the country remained committed to democratic values and political plurality, despite the current wave of defections.
