Atiku Abubakar, politician and businessman, has reiterated that elected party members must not be allowed to disregard party supremacy and its rules. He stressed that elected representatives intending to decamp from their parties should vacate their seats to uphold democratic integrity.

Speaking on Monday in Abuja as a panellist at a national conference on strengthening Nigeria's democracy, Atiku, the former vice president, underscored the importance of holding party members accountable for violating party rules. The conference was organized by key organizations including the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD), the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA), and the National Peace Committee (NPC).

Atiku pointed out that there must be consequences for members who violate party rules, stating, "There should be no debate on this matter when it happens," and adding that electoral malpractice should always be penalized, not rewarded. He emphasized that such actions were essential for maintaining political integrity in the country.

On the issue of opposition coalitions, Atiku stressed that while opposition parties may find it challenging to unseat an unpopular ruling government, they must recognize the importance of coalition-building and merging. He highlighted the historical success of coalitions, citing examples from Nigeria's own political history and other countries, as critical for enhancing the opposition's strength.

He also made it clear that the sustainability of Nigeria’s democracy depends on strong political parties, particularly opposition parties. He argued that parties should not be owned or dominated by individual wealthy figures, as this goes against the principles of democracy. "Party supremacy is critical, but it cannot be achieved through the current model of party funding," he said.

Atiku criticized the current funding model, where a few governors and wealthy individuals hold significant sway over party funding. "As we know, he who pays the piper dictates the tune," he added. He stressed that funding should be democratized, allowing members to collectively contribute and co-own their parties.

"Funding must come from party members and supporters, not just a few individuals," he said, emphasizing that in stronger democracies, parties and candidates typically raise funds from a broad base of supporters. He called for a shift in mindset, urging citizens, particularly party members, to take responsibility for funding their political choices.

Atiku also raised the possibility of public funding for parties during the transition period to help democratize party financing. "Could we consider some government funding for parties during the transition period, perhaps based on the number of elected officials in the legislature? This would prevent parties from forming solely to collect public funds," he proposed.

His remarks highlight the ongoing need for reforms in Nigeria’s political system, focusing on strengthening party structures, ensuring party discipline, and making party funding more inclusive and transparent for all citizens.

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