Abstract
Does the alignment of local politicians with the ruling party affect organized violence? Applying a regression discontinuity design to closely contested constituencies in the 2011 Nigerian House of Representatives election, we show that the number of violent events, resulting deaths, and the incidence of displacement are lower in areas where the ruling-party candidates win a close election. We show that the effect of political alignment on violence is driven by violence initiated by extremist groups against civilians and conflicts involving the government and extremist groups, suggesting extremist groups react differently to the election of aligned and non-aligned local politicians. We posit several hypotheses and empirically test those to explain the potential mechanisms.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
