A.A IGBAFE

This study examined the effect of elite fragmentation on party cohesion within Nigeria’s multiparty political system. The research traced how divisions among political elites manifesting in factionalism, ideological inconsistencies, personal rivalry, defection, and power struggles shape the stability and internal unity of political parties. Using a survey design and a structured questionnaire, data were collected from respondents across selected political institutions and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including regression techniques. The findings showed that elite fragmentation significantly weakens party cohesion by promoting internal crises, reducing organizational discipline, and increasing the likelihood of defections and parallel party structures. The study also revealed that elite competition for influence often undermines party ideology and policy consistency, leading to unstable electoral alliances and reduced public confidence. It concludes that Nigeria’s multiparty system is highly vulnerable to elite-driven instability, which compromises effective party functioning and broader democratic consolidation. The study recommends strengthening internal party democracy, enforcing clearer party rules, and promoting ideological clarity to reduce elite-induced fragmentation and enhance party cohesion