Nigeria, May 7 -- The mass defection of politicians from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised debates about the integrity of Nigeria's political institutions and parties.

In the nearly two years since the 2023 general elections, the APC has either infiltrated or dominated opposition strongholds.

Nigeria's democratic system thrives on a vibrant and functional opposition, like other liberal democracies. However, opposition political parties in the country are buffeted by intra-party wrangling, which takes the wind out of their sails.

Activists and observers said the absence of a strong opposition has left Nigeria's democracy vulnerable to unchecked executive power, resulting in governance that often...