Defection is not a Crime…People Are Simply Moving to Where There’s More Political Stability – Senator Imasuen

By Reporter

Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, has dismissed growing public concerns that the Nigerian legislature is operating as a mere extension of the executive, insisting that what is often labeled “rubber stamping” is simply a reflection of healthy collaboration for national interest.

Senator Imasuen spoke to Pan African Reporters in Abuja, defended the Senate against the accusation of lack of independence.

“When a good bill comes, it doesn’t matter who the author is — it gets my full support,” he said. “If that is what is considered rubber stamping, then I will be guilty of it. But I don’t believe in the use of that word.”

Amid concerns over increasing defections from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the Senator reaffirmed that political migration is not unconstitutional. “Defection is not a crime,” he stated. “The constitution guarantees freedom of association. People are simply moving to where there is more political stability.”

He also rejected fears that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state, citing historical precedents when the PDP dominated the political landscape. “What we see today is not unprecedented. The PDP once had nearly all the governors. It wasn’t called a one-party state then.”

Senator Imasuen addressed the controversy surrounding the proliferation of bills establishing new institutions, especially universities, amid Nigeria’s economic challenges. He emphasized that every senator retains the constitutional right to propose legislation. “The issue is not about passing too many bills — it’s about funding. If there’s no money, the bill remains just that — a bill,” he said.

On the upcoming National Security Summit, the Senator expressed hope that it would yield more concrete results than in previous years. He lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to tackling insecurity, stating, “The President is serious about bringing sanity and safety. Unlike past administrations, I believe he will implement the recommendations.”

Reflecting on the 10th Senate’s performance so far, Imasuen admitted the journey has been “rough and smooth” in parts, owing largely to the economic turmoil inherited by the current administration. He did not mince words in blaming the previous government for the country’s economic woes. “The past administration stood akimbo and did nothing,” he remarked.

The Senator praised President Tinubu’s bold leadership, citing the controversial VAT reforms and calls for a national census as examples of the administration’s courage. “We cannot plan our economy if we don’t know how many we are. The population issue is critical for national development,” he said.

Senator Imasuen further emphasized the importance of unity and constructive governance in addressing Nigeria’s multifaceted challenges. “Where we are today requires cooperation. Rancor will only worsen insecurity. We all need to work together.” He said.

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