Showunmi pushes bold constitutional overhaul to end Nigeria’s ‘Political Tourism
‘
By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
Political strategist and convener of The Alternative, Otunba Segun Showunmi, has unveiled a sweeping proposal to reshape Nigeria’s democracy, calling for constitutional amendments that would entrench ideology driven politics and curb opportunistic defections.
Showunmi identified four sections of the 1999 Constitution—65(2)(b), 106(d), 131(c), and 177(c)—for amendment. His plan would require candidates for any elective office to have been registered members of their political party for at least four years before contesting, with exceptions only if their party is dissolved or a new one is formed.
The policy, according to Showunmi, aims to stamp out “political tourism” the frequent cross-carpeting of politicians in pursuit of personal gain and instead strengthen ideological loyalty. “A stable democracy rests not on charismatic individuals but on robust, institutionalized political parties,” he said, stressing that candidates should be bound to their party’s manifesto rather than personal ambition.
Under the proposed reforms, any elected official who defects to another party would automatically lose their seat and be barred from contesting for four years. The blueprint also includes a 12-year “sunset clause” to review its impact on Nigeria’s democratic health.
Showunmi believes these measures would lead to more stable party systems, reduce electoral violence, and give voters clearer ideological choices. “If we embed these reforms into our constitutional framework, we can secure governance continuity, stability, and alignment with global democratic best practices”.
