Nigerian Democracy and Electoral Process since Amalgamation: Lessons from a Turbulent Past*

Abstract

Nigerian democratic process has endured a cheaqured history is irrefutable, as research has shown, Nigerian political and electoral process is characterized by banditry, rigging, ballot stuffing, candidate imposition and other vices. This research highlights factors that are responsible for this state of affairs. It examines the inextricable link between democracy, good governance, political and electoral process and argues that they have impact on national stability and development. It addresses factors inhibiting the political and electoral process from amalgamation till date. It identifies and explores the broad consequences of continued circumventions of the electoral system by the political elites. In the light of present and enduring interest in the role of a credible political and electoral system, it is argues that an assessment is needed of the potential for change in existing arrangements. This research reveals that democracy, political and electoral processes must be sensitive to the heterogeneity and variations of interest in Nigeria. The paper concludes by making recommendations and proposals.