The Emergence of Unknown Political Parties in Power – Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, National Chairman of APGA calls for Peace and Harmony in the Major Political Parties for enduring and more consolidated Democratic Gains for the good people of the State, “Rivers and Abia State as a Case Study” – NDUKA ANYANWU
The emergence of unknown political parties in Nigeria’s state governance can be attributed to the intra-party acrimony
plaguing major parties. This phenomenon is rooted in the country’s political history, dating back to the creation of the
Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923.
Factors Contributing to Intra-Party Acrimony
Several factors contribute to intra-party conflicts, including:
1. Lack of Internal Democracy: Weak institutional frameworks and disregard for party rules
2. Personalization of Politics: Party leaders prioritizing individual interests over party goals
3. Exclusionary Practices: Marginalization of certain groups or individuals from decision-making processes
4. Financial Influences: Corruption and manipulation of party finances
Consequences of Intra-Party Acrimony
These conflicts have far-reaching consequences, including:
1. Fractionalization of Parties: Aggrieved members breaking away to form new parties
2. Loss of Public Trust: Erosion of confidence in political parties and the democratic process
3. Undermining of Democratic Consolidation: Hindering the country’s transition to a stable democracy
Emergence of Unknown Political Parties
The specific cases of intra-party conflicts in Nigerian states, exploring how these conflicts have led to the rise of unknown political parties and their impact on governance. The resultant effect of this intra-party acrimony is the emergence of unknown political parties. These new parties often focus on specific regional or ethnic interests, attracting support from disillusioned citizens. Examples include various state-level parties that have gained prominence in recent years and of Rivers and Abia States such as:
1..Action Group (AG): Formed in response to the shortcomings of the NNDP and NYM
2. Northern People’s Congress (NPC): Emerged as a response to ethnic and regional tension
3. The Action Peoples Party (APP): Who has won 22 chairmanship positions out of 23 in the Rivers State Local Government election, though on litigation – but this is as a result of internal State Leadership crisis of the ruling State party the Peoples Democratic Party.
4. Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) The party won gubernatorial elections in 2003 and 2007 in Abia State. The party also won the governorship election in 2007 in Imo State.
5. The Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), a little-known political party in Abia State, has won 15 chairmanship seats out of the 17 Local Government
6. Young Progressives Party (YPP) a little-known political party in Abia State, has won 2 chairmanship seats out of the 17 Local Government
7. Other regional parties: Various parties formed to address local concerns and interests
Stakeholders must engage in constructive dialogue, compromise, and collaboration to find solutions that balance competing interests and promote the greater good of the people for consolidation of democracy – Note: Most f these unknown political parties lack credibility, and sooner or latter collapses due to lack of political ideologies because of personification of interests.
These measures can help alleviate tensions, address underlying issues, and promote sustainable peace in political crisis states. By doing so, the state can maintain stability, foster inclusive growth, and continue to make progress despite political differences for in brotherhood we stand! APGA believes that peace can be restored in political crisis-prone states and Nigeria State at large, which can put back on the path of progress and development – APGA, the emergence of a neo-political party for equity justices and fairness – profoundly known with the philosophy of hospitality, love and acceptance! “–
BE YOUR BROTHERS’ KEEPER”
