Elections And The Electoral Process: Building Democratic Governance In Nigeria

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Elections are one of the most important elements of a democratic system. They give citizens the power to choose those who will lead and represent them. In democratic countries like Nigeria, elections allow people to express their opinions, shape leadership, and influence the policies that affect their lives.

Elections promote civic responsibility and encourage citizens to take ownership of the country’s future. Without elections, democracy cannot function properly. By participating in elections, citizens help build a government that reflects the will of the people. This note explains the meaning, features, organisation, types, systems, and challenges of elections, using simple terms and real-life examples. 

DEFINITION AND MEANING OF ELECTION

An election is a process by which eligible citizens vote to choose individuals to represent them in government. It is a vital feature of democratic governance, ensuring that power rests in the hands of the people.

In Nigeria, elections are conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Elections may be conducted at the national, state, or local level, depending on the position being contested. Through elections, the wishes of the people are made known, and leaders are given the mandate to serve based on public trust and accountability.

Key Characteristics of Elections

• Regular intervals: Elections are conducted periodically, usually every four years in Nigeria. This provides a structured timeline for leadership renewal.
• Participation: Citizens have the right to vote and be voted for. It ensures inclusion and engagement in governance.
• Free and fair: Elections must be conducted without bias or manipulation. Fairness guarantees that the outcome reflects the true choice of the people.
• Secret ballot: Voters cast their votes privately to ensure safety and freedom of choice. This prevents intimidation or vote-buying.
• Electoral body: A neutral and independent body oversees the election (e.g., INEC in Nigeria). This body ensures compliance with legal procedures and impartiality.
• Legal backing: Elections are guided by the constitution and electoral laws. These laws provide rules for political parties, voters, and candidates.
• Competition: Multiple political parties and candidates contest for positions. This allows for the comparison of ideas and options by voters.
• Inclusivity: Every eligible citizen, regardless of background, has the right to vote. This upholds the principle of equality and justice in democratic participation.

Importance and Purpose of Elections

1. Representation: Elections allow citizens to choose leaders who represent their interests. E.g., Nigerians elect senators to represent their regions in the National Assembly.
2. Accountability: Through elections, leaders are held accountable. E.g., a governor who fails to deliver may not be re-elected. This motivates public officials to perform well.
3. Legitimacy of Government: Elections provide governments with legitimacy, promoting peace and stability. Governments formed through elections are widely accepted.
4. Political Participation: Citizens engage in governance through voting and contesting. Participation increases civic responsibility and political awareness.
5. Promotion of Democratic Values: Elections promote tolerance, free speech, and political competition. It allows different voices and opinions to be heard.
6. Peaceful Change of Government: Elections allow for non-violent transitions of power. E.g., Nigeria’s 2015 presidential election transitioned from PDP to APC. Such transitions show the maturity of democracy and respect for rule of law.

Organization of Election

1. Voter Registration: Citizens aged 18 and above register with INEC to vote. This ensures that only eligible voters can participate.
2. Nomination of Candidates: Political parties nominate candidates. Independent candidates may contest where allowed. Nominees must meet constitutional qualifications.
3. Campaigning: Candidates share their manifestos and plans, promoting peaceful engagement. Campaigns also provide an opportunity for debates and public interaction.
4. Voting: Registered voters cast votes at polling units. E.g., voters are verified with Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) device in Nigeria. This process should be free from coercion.
5. Counting and Collation of Votes: Votes are tallied at polling units and collated at various levels transparently. INEC officials and observers monitor the process to prevent fraud.
6. Declaration of Results: Winners are announced based on highest votes or legal requirements. The media may also broadcast results to ensure openness.
7. Post-Election Activities and Disputes: Legal avenues like election tribunals address grievances fairly. This strengthens confidence in the electoral process.

TYPES OF ELECTIONS

1. Primary Elections: This type of election is conducted internally within the political party to choose suitable candidates that will represent the party as a flag bearer in the other types of elections.
2. General Elections: Held nationwide for President, Governors, etc where different political parties present their candidates (flag bearer) to contest for a political post. E.g., Nigeria’s 2023 elections. These elections determine the national and state leadership.
3. By-Elections: Fill vacant seats due to resignation, death, or disqualification of an elected leader. By-elections are often localized and may affect parliamentary balance.
4. Local Government Elections: Choose Chairpersons and Councillors. Handled by State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs). These elections bring governance closer to the grassroots and help in local development.
5. Run-off Election: A run-off election is held when no candidate achieves the required majority in the first round of voting. The two leading candidates compete in a second round, and the one with the most votes wins.
6. Referendum: A referendum is a direct vote by citizens on a specific issue or policy. It can be binding or advisory, allowing people to decide on constitutional changes or important government decisions, but rarely used in Nigeria.

Electoral Systems

• First-Past-The-Post (FPTP): Candidate with the highest votes wins. Common in Nigeria and the UK. Simple but may overlook minority voices. It promotes quick and clear outcomes.
• Proportional Representation: Seats are allocated based on vote percentage. E.g., a party with 30% votes gets 30% of seats. Used in South Africa. This system encourages diversity and fairer representation.
• Mixed Electoral Systems: Combines FPTP and proportional representation. Balances local and fair representation but can be complex. It is used in countries seeking both stability and fairness in elections. E.g., Germany

Challenges in the Electoral Process

• Voter Suppression: Eligible voters may face barriers. E.g., delays in voters’ card distribution happened in Lagos State in 2015. This discouraged participation and led to underrepresentation.
• Electoral Violence: Includes intimidation or clashes during campaigns or voting. E.g., violence reported in Rivers State in 2019. Such violence can scare voters and reduce turnout.
• Electoral Fraud: Vote buying, ballot stuffing, or result manipulation undermine democracy. This leads to the emergence of illegitimate leaders.
• Poor Voter Turnout: Due to distrust, fear, or apathy. Reduces representativeness of government. Many youth do not see voting as effective. This happened in most Southeastern States in 2019 and 2023.
• Logistical Issues: Late arrival of materials can delay voting and disenfranchise voters. It also creates suspicion and tension at polling units.
• Lack of Electoral Education: Many citizens lack understanding of the voting process. This results in invalid votes and low interest in political activities.
• Biased Electoral Officials: If officials support a party, it weakens public trust. This can affect the credibility of results.
• Judicial Interference: Biased court rulings on disputes can damage electoral credibility. Courts must remain neutral and uphold justice.
• Technology in Elections: Tools like BVAS improve credibility but face technical and security challenges. Proper training and testing are required.
• Inclusivity Challenges: Women, people with disabilities, and internally displaced persons often face barriers. Policies must ensure everyone is included.
• Civil Society Role: Limited support for election monitors and educators can reduce transparency. NGOs and observers play a key role in promoting fairness.

Control of Electoral Malpractices

Electoral malpractices undermine the integrity of elections. To control this, measures include:

1. Voter education to prevent manipulation.
2. Technology like biometric verification and electronic voting.
3. Strict penalties for offenders.
4. Completely independent electoral bodies to ensure fairness.
5. Election monitoring by domestic and international observers.
6. Public awareness through media and civil society groups.

Final Thoughts

Elections are crucial for democracy and development. For them to be effective, they must be inclusive, transparent, and fair. Citizens must vote wisely, stay informed, and hold leaders accountable. An educated and engaged electorate ensures strong, people-centered governance. Leaders who are not credibly elected by the larger majority usually faces backlash of policy rejection and civil unrest. The future of any democracy depends on the participation of its people. Let us build Nigeria together by making our voices count through the ballot box. You count if you stand to be counted.