IntroductionElections are the cornerstone of Nigeria's democratic system, providing citizens with the power to choose their leaders and shape the nation's future. As Africa's most populous country and a key player in West African democracy, Nigeria holds regular elections under the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act 2022. Managed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), these polls occur every four years for presidential, National Assembly, governorship, and state assembly positions. But why does Nigeria conduct elections? The reasons go beyond mere formality — they sustain democracy, ensure legitimacy, and drive national progress.
Five (5) Reasons for Conducting Elections in Nigeria1. Upholding Democratic Principles and Popular SovereigntyThe primary reason for elections in Nigeria is to embody the principle of democracy: government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Elections give citizens the right to vote and be voted for, allowing them to select representatives who reflect their will. This process returns power to the masses, as emphasized in civic education, where elections are seen as a way to exercise political rights and promote participatory governance. Without regular elections, Nigeria would risk sliding back into authoritarianism, as experienced during past military regimes. By enabling peaceful transfers of power — like the historic 2015 handover from incumbent Goodluck Jonathan to Muhammadu Buhari — elections reinforce democratic stability and prevent unconstitutional changes in government.2. Ensuring Legitimacy and Accountability of GovernmentElections confer legitimacy on leaders by making them accountable to voters. A government elected through free and fair polls gains moral and legal authority to govern, as citizens accept its mandate. This legitimacy is crucial in a diverse nation like Nigeria, where regional, ethnic, and religious differences can fuel tensions. Periodic elections allow people to change governments peacefully, promoting stability and discouraging corruption or abuse of power.In civic terms, elections provide a mechanism for citizens to reward good performance or reject poor leadership, fostering accountability and good governance.3. Promoting Political Participation and Civic EducationElections encourage active citizen involvement in national affairs. They serve as platforms for political education, where parties campaign, debate issues, and educate voters on policies. This process raises civic awareness and empowers Nigerians, especially the youth, to engage in democracy. Voter turnout, though challenged by apathy, highlights the importance of participation in sustaining democracy. Moreover, elections offer opportunities for new voices, including third-party candidates, to emerge, enriching political competition and inclusivity.4. Facilitating Leadership Selection and National UnityA core objective is to choose capable leaders who can address Nigeria's challenges, from security to economic development. Elections allow voters to select individuals based on merit, vision, and track record, ensuring competent governance. In a multi-ethnic society, elections promote national unity by requiring candidates to build broad coalitions and secure votes across regions — such as the constitutional requirement for a presidential winner to gain at least 25% of votes in two-thirds of states.5. Encouraging Stability, Peaceful Change, and DevelopmentRegular elections prevent stagnation by enabling periodic renewal of leadership. They provide a structured avenue for expressing grievances, reducing the risk of unrest. Successful polls boost investor confidence, support economic growth, and project Nigeria positively regionally and globally. Despite challenges like insecurity and low turnout, elections remain vital for progress, inspiring reforms like the 2022 Electoral Act to enhance transparency.ConclusionElections in Nigeria exist to sustain democracy, legitimize governance, promote participation, select effective leaders, and ensure peaceful power transitions. They are not just events but essential tools for building a united, accountable, and prosperous nation. As Nigerians continue to demand credible polls, embracing these reasons strengthens the democratic journey.
Five (5) Reasons for Conducting Elections in Nigeria1. Upholding Democratic Principles and Popular SovereigntyThe primary reason for elections in Nigeria is to embody the principle of democracy: government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Elections give citizens the right to vote and be voted for, allowing them to select representatives who reflect their will. This process returns power to the masses, as emphasized in civic education, where elections are seen as a way to exercise political rights and promote participatory governance. Without regular elections, Nigeria would risk sliding back into authoritarianism, as experienced during past military regimes. By enabling peaceful transfers of power — like the historic 2015 handover from incumbent Goodluck Jonathan to Muhammadu Buhari — elections reinforce democratic stability and prevent unconstitutional changes in government.2. Ensuring Legitimacy and Accountability of GovernmentElections confer legitimacy on leaders by making them accountable to voters. A government elected through free and fair polls gains moral and legal authority to govern, as citizens accept its mandate. This legitimacy is crucial in a diverse nation like Nigeria, where regional, ethnic, and religious differences can fuel tensions. Periodic elections allow people to change governments peacefully, promoting stability and discouraging corruption or abuse of power.In civic terms, elections provide a mechanism for citizens to reward good performance or reject poor leadership, fostering accountability and good governance.3. Promoting Political Participation and Civic EducationElections encourage active citizen involvement in national affairs. They serve as platforms for political education, where parties campaign, debate issues, and educate voters on policies. This process raises civic awareness and empowers Nigerians, especially the youth, to engage in democracy. Voter turnout, though challenged by apathy, highlights the importance of participation in sustaining democracy. Moreover, elections offer opportunities for new voices, including third-party candidates, to emerge, enriching political competition and inclusivity.4. Facilitating Leadership Selection and National UnityA core objective is to choose capable leaders who can address Nigeria's challenges, from security to economic development. Elections allow voters to select individuals based on merit, vision, and track record, ensuring competent governance. In a multi-ethnic society, elections promote national unity by requiring candidates to build broad coalitions and secure votes across regions — such as the constitutional requirement for a presidential winner to gain at least 25% of votes in two-thirds of states.5. Encouraging Stability, Peaceful Change, and DevelopmentRegular elections prevent stagnation by enabling periodic renewal of leadership. They provide a structured avenue for expressing grievances, reducing the risk of unrest. Successful polls boost investor confidence, support economic growth, and project Nigeria positively regionally and globally. Despite challenges like insecurity and low turnout, elections remain vital for progress, inspiring reforms like the 2022 Electoral Act to enhance transparency.ConclusionElections in Nigeria exist to sustain democracy, legitimize governance, promote participation, select effective leaders, and ensure peaceful power transitions. They are not just events but essential tools for building a united, accountable, and prosperous nation. As Nigerians continue to demand credible polls, embracing these reasons strengthens the democratic journey.
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