Democracy and electoral violence: Its implication on Nigeria’s political development process

Abstract

The rapid expansion and standardization of democracy, often called the globalization of democracy, is rising. Developing nations like Nigeria embrace liberal democracy to foster development and ensure the well-being of their citizens within a framework of good governance, justice, and freedom. Elections are fundamental to advancing democracy, promoting political liberalization, and encouraging active political participation. Election, a critical postcolonial instrument of democracy, involves multiple candidates representing political parties and electorates whose participation through voting plays a pivotal role in selecting leaders or governments that reflect the interests of the broader population. Since Nigeria’s independence, numerous general elections have been conducted; however, they have often been marred by violence, leading to election malpractice and outcomes that are neither free nor fair. These challenges have hindered the country’s primary goal of democratization. Election-related violence has frequently undermined the aspirations of citizens for good governance. Adopting a desk-review method, the paper examines the causes and consequences of electoral violence in Nigeria’s contemporary democratic epoch. Some data from reports and articles are presented in tables, and findings are discussed. Based on the findings, the study recommends that political officeholders be selected based on the outstanding leadership traits of the contestants and not sentiments; political actors’ utterances must be guided; and swiftly resolving election-related legal disputes before the inauguration is imperative. Also, consequential electoral reforms should be adopted, such as the government providing funds to enhance credible data availability.