Election observation is an essential process in any democratic society. It ensures transparency and accountability in the electoral process. This ultimately leads to credible and acceptable election outcomes. In Nigeria, gubernatorial elections are not immune to the challenges of electoral malpractices.
This can make election observers fault the process. According to the United Nations, several factors can influence the credibility of the gubernatorial election process. Here are some of these factors:
Voter intimidation and harassment are common occurrences during elections in Nigeria. Political thugs often intimidate voters into voting in favor of their preferred candidates. This can deny citizens the freedom to exercise their voting rights. Election observers may fault the election process when such incidents occur.
Vote buying: This is a widespread practice in Nigerian elections, where political parties and candidates offer money, food items, and other incentives to voters to sway their votes. This practice is a significant threat to the credibility of the election process and can make election observers fault the election process.
Electoral violence: This is another significant challenge that can affect the credibility of the election process. Violence during elections can lead to the disruption of the voting process and the disenfranchisement of voters. Election observers may fault the election process when violence occurs during the election.
Inadequate security: This can compromise the credibility of the election process. When there is a lack of adequate security during elections, it can lead to the disruption of the voting process and the destruction of election materials. Election observers may fault the election process when there is a failure to provide adequate security.
The partisanship of electoral officials: The neutrality of electoral officials is crucial to the credibility of the election process. When electoral officials display partisanship or bias, it can affect the credibility of the election process.
Election observers may fault the election process when they observe bias or partisanship from electoral officials.
These challenges need to be addressed to ensure free, fair, and credible gubernatorial elections in the country.
The Nigerian government, civil society organizations, and international partners must work together to ensure that these factors do not undermine the credibility of the election process.
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