Perceived Impact of Technological Devices in checking electoral malpractices in Nigeria elections

Abstract

The research work focused on perceived impact of technological devices in checking electoral malpractices in Nigeria elections. A survey research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study is made up of politicians and citizens of Nigeria from the six geo-political zones. Simple random sampling technique was used to determine the sample for the study. Fifty respondents were sampled from each geo-political zone making a total of three hundred (300) respondents. This sampling technique gives each member of the population equal chance of being selected. The instrument for data collection is the questionnaire which has eighteen (18) items designed to elicit information on perceived impact of technological devices in checking electoral malpractices in Nigeria elections. The instrument was validated by two experts in political science at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State. The mean was used to analyse the data collected. The findings of the study showed that deployment and use of technological devices in Nigeria elections reduced election rigging, shows accurate records of accredited voters, minimizes the volume of election litigation, distinguishes actual voters from fake voters, and ensures a considerable degree of free and fair elections. The findings also showed that the measures to put in place for conduct of free and fair elections in Nigeria are deployment and use of technological devices, electoral reforms, improvement of electoral infrastructures, strengthening electoral security, voters’ education among others. Conclusion and relevant recommendations were made.