ABUJA — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has raised alarm over the growing lack of ideological foundation among political parties in Nigeria, warning that this trend threatens internal democracy and public trust in the electoral process.
Speaking at the public presentation of the Political Party Performance Index (PPPI) in Abuja, INEC National Commissioner, Prof. Kunle Ajayi, noted that most parties submit ideological frameworks during registration but abandon them once approved.
“The absence of functional ideology among political parties fuels internal crises, undermines democracy, and weakens citizens’ confidence in the political system,” Ajayi said.
The event, which also featured the unveiling of the new Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) Constitution, was organised by the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD).
Ajayi stressed that political parties should serve as vehicles for articulating collective societal interests, but many have instead devolved into platforms for elite dominance and power struggles. He added that INEC was developing new frameworks to monitor and ensure compliance with party constitutions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
PPPI Unveils Party Shortcomings
The newly introduced PPPI report by WFD assessed party performance in three areas: inclusivity, legal compliance, and public outreach. The findings revealed a stark disconnect between the ideals parties profess and their actual practices.
According to WFD Country Director, Adebowale Olorunmola, the index serves as both a scorecard and a roadmap for democratic renewal in Nigeria.
“We cannot have a vibrant democracy without responsive, inclusive, and transparent political parties,” he said.
Political Elites Blamed for Systemic Failures
Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda, echoed the concerns, saying Nigeria’s political landscape is plagued by opportunism and elite-driven alliances. Citing scholars like Larry Diamond and Said Adejumobi, Chinda argued that most parties operate more as tools of political survival than as democratic institutions.
“The absence of ideological clarity explains the frequent defections and alliances of convenience that erode voter trust,” Chinda said.
Hope for Reform
Meanwhile, IPAC Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, welcomed the PPPI and the revised IPAC Constitution, describing them as critical steps towards restoring accountability and discipline within the party system.
With the 2027 elections on the horizon, stakeholders agreed that reinforcing party structures and principles is crucial to reviving democratic norms and deepening public engagement.
