Fintiri, Nyako and all the defectors are a disgrace to democracy – Dr Ardo
Dr. Umar Ardo has strongly condemned the recent wave of defections in Adamawa State, describing the actions of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Senator Abdulaziz Nyako, and other political actors as a serious affront to democratic values.
In a statement reacting to the development, Ardo characterized the defections as a “disgrace to democracy and society,” arguing that such moves reflect a troubling pattern of political opportunism rather than principled leadership.
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According to him, the politicians involved have demonstrated a lack of ideological commitment, shifting allegiances not based on convictions or policy differences, but on their proximity to power and access to influence.
He further criticized what he described as a culture of disposable rhetoric among political elites, where public declarations and past positions are easily abandoned once new opportunities emerge.
Ardo noted that this trend reduces politics to a transactional enterprise, where political parties are treated merely as platforms to be used or discarded at will, rather than institutions grounded in shared values and long-term vision.
The former presidential aspirant warned that such behavior undermines public trust in the political system and weakens democratic accountability.
He stressed that when elected officials frequently switch loyalties without clear justification, it erodes the sanctity of the mandate given to them by the electorate.
Addressing the people of Adamawa State, Ardo called for greater political awareness and responsibility among voters.
He urged citizens to look beyond campaign promises and party affiliations, and instead focus on the track records, consistency, and integrity of those seeking public office.
According to him, the electorate must begin to “vote with memory, not momentary sentiment,” by holding politicians accountable for their past actions and statements.
He emphasized the need for sustained civic vigilance, encouraging voters to actively monitor political actors, demand explanations for their decisions, and challenge inconsistencies through public engagement.
Ardo also advised citizens to resist short-term inducements and patronage, which he said often serve as tools to manipulate public opinion and legitimize unprincipled leadership.
Furthermore, he argued that rewarding integrity and punishing opportunism at the ballot box is essential for strengthening democracy.
By rejecting habitual defectors, Ardo said, voters can help restore credibility to the political process and ensure that leadership is anchored on character as well as competence.
Ardo lamented that the persistence of such opportunistic politics has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s broader governance challenges.
He maintained that unless citizens take a firm stand against it, the cycle of political inconsistency and self-serving leadership will continue to hinder national development and democratic progress.
