Saraki’s Political Odyssey: The Pot That Calls the Kettle Black

In the ever-shifting terrain of Nigerian politics, few names evoke the term “serial defector” quite like Dr. Bukola Saraki. The former Senate President has traversed the political spectrum with a precision that borders on art from the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), then to the New PDP, onward to the All Progressives Congress (APC), and eventually back to the PDP.

Yet, in recent commentary, Saraki reportedly critiqued political opponents for switching party allegiances, sparking public backlash over what many see as sheer hypocrisy. To the Nigerian observer, this is not just ironic it is emblematic of a political class that weaponizes defection as both survival strategy and power grab.

Saraki’s movement has often coincided with broader political tremors: his defection to APC in 2014 helped solidify the party’s grip ahead of the historic 2015 elections. His return to PDP in 2018 came amid allegations of internal marginalization and executive overreach in the APC. In each move, the justification sounded noble: fighting for inclusion, democracy, or the “greater good.” But the pattern remains clear convenience over conviction.

In a system where party ideologies are often thin and loyalty is fluid, Saraki has become a symbol of Nigeria’s political expediency. Still, for him to brand others as political nomads reeks of the proverbial pot calling the kettle black.

The Nigerian electorate deserves more than theatrics and tactical defections. As 2027 approaches, perhaps it’s time voters start holding these serial defectors accountable not just for where they stand, but how often they’ve changed ground.