The Significance of Elections in Africa: 2015 elections and democratic consolidation in Nigeria

Abstract

While it can be argued that elections are not enough for the consolidation of democracy, elections are fast emerging as a significant component of democratization. Not least, because their regularity has enhanced freedom and liberalization, but also because they have been the cause and/or effect of democratic consolidation. As a key component of democracy, elections have become the barometer and template upon which other liberal democratic principles are institutionalised. The paper examines elections in Africa, using the recently concluded 2015 elections in Nigeria to show the significance and effect of credible elections to democratic consolidation by situating its argument within the context of Staffan Lindberg theoretical postulation. The paper adopts a qualitative analysis drawing data from PhD field work conducted in 2014. It also makes use of available texts from INEC document, elections observers' reports, data from Freedom House and Polity scores and other documentary evidences to analyze the election. The study argues that, regularities of elections have potential for democratic improvement and that the 2015 elections have restored Nigeria back on the path of democratic consolidation through elite acceptance of electoral outcome, electoral turnover, elite pact and consensus, coordinated opposition and effective electoral management. It further suggests that more democratic reforms are required to ensure strengthening of the electoral process and institutions in the interest of democratic consolidation in Nigeria.

Challenges of Shrinking Civic Space and the Path towards Sustainable Democracy in Nigeria: Lessons from the President Muhammadu Buhari Administration

“…This implies that the concept of civil space emerged as a way to describe the physical and metaphorical environment where civil society operates and interacts with other actors, including the government and the private sector. Olowu (2018) and Onuoha (2019) submitted that in the Nigerian context, the term "civil space" is used to analyse and discuss the conditions and dynamics that shape civic engagement, activism, and democratic participation within the country. According to Olaniyan and Olayiwola (2020), it encompasses the legal framework, social norms, and political context that either enable or constrain the ability of individuals and groups to exercise their rights and contribute to public debate and decision-making.…”

“…It has also results in the stifling of independent media, limiting the flow of information and critical reporting. Additionally, the curtailment of civil spaces has impede the work of civil society organizations, hindering their ability to advocate for human rights, social justice, and good governance (Onuoha, 2019).This qualitative study therefore is set to critically examine the fundamental challenges of shrinking civic spaces and the path towards sustainable democracy in Nigeria, using the President Muhammadu Buhari's administration as a focal point.…”

Voting System and Electoral Malpractices in Nigeria: A Case Study of the Fourth Republic of Nigeria

“…The disturbing reality in Nigeria voting system is that it does not guarantee free and credible elections. Dode (2010) rightly argued that the democratic experiment for the Fourth Republic in Nigeria" has not scored high when placed in the same matrix with countries that are heading towards stable democracy" this is due to weakness inherent in the voting system which politicians often manipulate for a specific purpose. This has led to electoral malpractices manifesting in many fold in every election in Nigeria.…”