- …Calls on Citizens and Civic Groups to Demand Accountability
The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) an Environmental Rights[ez-toc] Advocacy and Pro democracy organization has raised alarm over the recent wave of political defections in Abia State, describing them as acts motivated by personal gain rather than public interest.
In statement released on Sunday, FENRAD condemned the cross-carpeting trend among politicians in the state, stating that it is not borne out of ideology or commitment to the people, but rather a calculated move to hijack and plunder the commonwealth of the state.
“These defections are not about service delivery or development,” the statement read. “They are desperate maneuvers by the political class to retain access to power and public resources at all costs. This is a betrayal of the trust of the Abia people.”
FENRAD further described these defections as “political gymnastics driven by selfish ambition”, warning that they are not inspired by ideology, patriotism, or a genuine desire for good governance, but rather a strategic move to retain access to state resources and influence.
“What we are witnessing is not a realignment of values or a people-centered movement, but a desperate attempt by career politicians to hijack state resources for Personal & Selfish Gains ” said Comrade Nelson Nnanna Executive Director of FENRAD.
“These defections are acts of convenience, not conviction. They signal a coordinated effort to continue looting Abia’s commonwealth under a new political cover.”
FENRAD warns that the influx of former party stalwarts into the ruling Party poses a serious risk of recycling the same failed leadership and undermining the people’s desire for genuine political change in the state. The group further notes that without public vigilance, such moves may compromise the emerging opportunity for reforms and inclusive governance.
Call to Action: Citizens Must Rise
“This is the time for active citizenship. The people must not allow politicians to weaponize poverty, ethnicity, or propaganda to silence critical voices or derail the democratic process. We must demand transparency, track campaign promises, and hold every defector and party accountable to the public interest,” the statement emphasized.
FENRAD warns these defections with no ideology if not checked will not weaken democratic structures but also threaten good governance, transparency, and accountability in Abia State. The organization expressed concern that if left unchecked, the political elite could continue to recycle themselves in office, leveraging party platforms solely as vehicles for personal ambition.
Finally FENRAD is calling on civil society organizations, youth groups, professional bodies, religious leaders, and all well-meaning Abians to rise and hold leaders accountable.
“We cannot continue to sit back while a few individuals mortgage our collective future. Citizens must become more proactive in demanding transparency and responsibility from their elected leaders. This is the only way to safeguard our democracy and ensure that governance truly serves the people,” said Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor Executive Director of FENRAD.
FENRAD also urges the media to remain vigilant and continue to spotlight the actions of public office holders, ensuring that the people are well-informed and mobilized to act in defense of the state’s democratic integrity.
About FENRAD
The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) is a non-governmental organization pro democracy organization committed to promoting environmental justice, human rights, good governance, and social accountability across Nigeria.
