The Relevance of Information and Communication Technology in Enhancing Representative Democracy in Nigeria

Chris O Oke ,Violet E Atufe-Musa

doi:10.7176/dcs/10-11-07

Abstract

The paper examines the concept of representative democracy and election as its foundational hallmark. It focuses on election in Nigeria and the role of information and communication Technology (ICT). Elections in Nigeria and the nature of the electoral process are usually fraught with sectarian conflicts between ethnic groups and the multivariate religions that exist thereby exposing the process to violence and fraud which consequently have led to perennial leadership failures. This paper therefore, aims to x-ray the role and relevance of ICT in affecting the outcomes of elections in Nigeria. In particular, it seeks to examine how the deployment of advanced technology in the form of introduction of card readers and permanent voters card (PVC) can enhance the electoral process and management. There is also the revolutionary impact of the social media on election and voters’ awareness with more engaging and participatory conversations through various social platforms that have helped to shape public opinions and reposition elections not only in Nigeria but also in other climes. Communication and diffusionist theories are adopted as the theoretical framework. The findings reveal that innovation in the management of elections especially by introducing ICT will lead to minimal electoral fraud and more credible elections that will be acceptable to both the contestants, electorate and the international community. The paper recommends that government must play the leading role to ensure ICT is fully deployed in the conduct of elections in Nigeria. It further recommends that government should create the enabling environment to investors both local and foreign to engender competitive innovation in the area of software and IT development. The Nigerian youth are ICT savvy and if given the opportunity, will develop more suitable technology that could be used to solve the perennial electoral conundrum. Keywords: Information & communication technology, New media, Representative democracy, Political participation, Diffusionist approach DOI: 10.7176/DCS/10-11-07 Publication date: November 30 th 2020

Highlights

Among the existing forms of governments, representative democracy stands out as the most desired choice the world over
In line with the above, this paper focuses on the relevance of information and communication technology in enhancing democracy in Nigeria with a focus on the electoral process
There is no doubt that developments in information and communication technology (ICT) have created a platform for democracy to thrive

Summary

Introduction

Among the existing forms of governments, representative democracy stands out as the most desired choice the world over. In addressing the issue of credibility of election which is fundamental to democracy, there is need for orientation geared towards a well informed electorate, enhancing institutional policies and process through instituting a complete information and communication technology process, such as electronic voting. In line with the above, this paper focuses on the relevance of information and communication technology in enhancing democracy in Nigeria with a focus on the electoral process.

Results

Conclusion