Kashere Journal of Politics and International Relations

Comparative Analysis of Electoral Technology Deployment and Voter Trust in the 2015, 2019, and 2023 General Elections in Nigeria

Abubakar Abdulrahman — 2025-08-06

The integrity of electoral processes is fundamental to democratic consolidation, and technological innovations have increasingly been adopted to enhance transparency and credibility. This study conducts a comparative analysis of electoral technology deployment and voter trust in Nigeria’s 2015, 2019, and 2023 general elections. Drawing on a mixed-methods approach that includes document analysis, public opinion surveys, and key informant interviews, the study evaluates the evolution and effectiveness of technologies such as the Smart Card Reader (SCR), the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and the electronic transmission of results. Findings reveal that while the 2015 elections marked a turning point with the introduction of SCR, subsequent elections in 2019 and especially 2023 saw significant technological upgrades intended to address past deficiencies. However, the study also finds that technological deployment alone does not guarantee voter trust; factors such as operational reliability, INEC’s transparency, political interference, and public awareness significantly shape electoral credibility. The 2023 elections, despite the introduction of BVAS and result upload portals, witnessed mixed reactions from the electorate due to perceived inconsistencies and logistical shortcomings. The study concludes that while electoral technology has the potential to enhance voter trust, its impact is contingent upon effective implementation, stakeholder confidence, and institutional accountability. Recommendations are offered to strengthen the integration of technology in Nigeria’s electoral process for future democratic resilience.

Premeditating Stance: Countdown to the Liberian Civil War

Oladimeji Talibu — 2025-10-24

War in the international system is fast becoming a recurrent geo-political concern to state and non-state actors. The motivations for continuous increment of war and conflict need to be explored to provide sustainable mechanism for preventing the repeated occurrence. One of such wars occurred in Liberia and persisted for a decade. Assessing the premeditating stage of the war and issues that fuelled it is a focus of this paper. Thus, the current research assesses the role of historical narratives in the Liberian civil war as well as the primordial sentiments that developed among the populace. The assessment of issues and factors that eventually sparked civil war in Liberia may serve as an important guidepost to global, regional, and sub-regional multilateral institutions in preventing the same scenario reoccurring in other parts of the world. In this manner, the research has found that tribal and ethnic sentiments played a pivotal role in the Liberia civil war. Again, injustice, inequality and lack of resilient institutions are found to be absent in Liberia before and after the civil war. The research thus recommends that for such civil war to be prevented from happening in other parts of the world, the concerned global actors like Governmental and Non-Governmental international institutions should promote the need for democratic governance that embodies equitable distribution of resources, resilient institutions, and promotion of national integration agenda. The research adopted qualitative latent content analysis as a methodological approach.

The Outsourcing Paradox: A Critical Analysis of Efficiency and Efficacy in Nigerian Federal Tertiary Educational Institutions

Lawan Cheri — 2025-09-02

The study examines the effects of the Nigerian federal government’s outsourcing policies on Tertiary educational institutions (TEIs) in Nigeria, focusing on their impact on organizational efficiency, student academic performance, and the broader socio-economic landscape. Drawing on data from 22 in-depth interviews and three focus group discussions across three federal institutions in Yobe state, the research employed purposive, quota, and snowball sampling. Thematic analysis revealed that while the policy has led to perceived benefits such as cost savings and a reduced supervisory burden for institutions, these gains are significantly undermined by systemic implementation failures. Findings indicate a decline in the quality of non-core services like cleaning and security, which has created an unconducive academic environment and contributed to a rise in theft across the affected TEIs. Furthermore, the policy has been found to have severe socio-economic consequences, including staff retrenchment and the exploitation of workers through sub-minimum wage payments. The study concludes that the policy’s failures are not inherent to the concept of outsourcing but are a direct result of poor governance, lack of monitoring, and inadequate oversight. It calls for a fundamental re-evaluation of the policy’s implementation, urging for a new approach that prioritizes ethical labor practices, transparent accountability, and robust governance to ensure that the policies genuinely serve the best interests of both the institutions and the public they serve.

An Assessment of the Socio-Economic Effects of Military Barracks on Host Communities in Kaduna State

Yusuf Hashimu — 2025-08-06

Nigeria Defence Academy, Kaduna State

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence to Achieve Sustainable Development Goal in Nigeria: Exploratory Notes

Ibaba Samuel Ibaba — 2025-10-12

This paper is developed to answer this question. The paper explored how technological outcomes of AI can mitigate the causal factors of poverty in Nigeria , and subsequently take people out of poverty as envisaged by the SDG goal 1. The analysis revealed that if adequately harnessed, AI has the potential to serve as a catalyst that could bring Nigeria closer to achieving SDG 1. But it highlighted its limitations in dealing with antisocial, cultural, value and religious issues that also underpin the causes of poverty is in the country; in addition to challenges of implementation such as the inadequate ICT infrastructure in the country, disruptions in energy supply, low ICT literacy rate, low investments in ICT, privacy and ethical breaches concerns. The paper ended by making suggestions to mitigate the challenges

Impact of Climate-Smart Agricultural Cooperatives on Conflict Prevention and Rural Prosperity in West Africa

Mukhtar Bello — 2025-08-28

The climate change exacerbates resource conflicts and undermines rural livelihoods in West Africa, yet climate-smart agricultural (CSA) cooperatives offer a promising solution. This study investigates how CSA cooperatives in Ghana and Senegal reduce land and water conflicts while enhancing rural prosperity. Using a mixed-methods case study approach, data were collected from local government records, NGO reports, and focus group discussions with cooperative members. In Ghana’s Asunafo North Cooperative, agroforestry and land-use agreements increased maize yields by 39% and incomes by 28%, while reducing farmer-herder disputes by 70% between 2018 and 2024. In Senegal’s Louga Water Users’ Cooperative, drip irrigation and water-sharing agreements boosted rice yields by 28% and incomes by 32%, cutting water-related conflicts by 80%. Community perceptions highlight cooperatives as platforms for trust and economic stability, reinforcing peace. Challenges include funding constraints, limited technology access, and policy gaps. The findings address a gap in understanding CSA cooperatives as dual drivers of peacebuilding and economic resilience, offering a scalable model for climate-vulnerable regions. Recommendations include sustained funding, stronger policy integration, and inclusive governance to scale cooperative impacts. This study underscores the potential of CSA cooperatives to transform resource scarcity into opportunities for collaboration and prosperity in West Africa.

The Impact of Communal Clashes on Economic Development of Takum Local Government Area, Taraba state

Dauda Mohammed Atiyaye — 2025-10-12

Communal clashes have become a persistent security challenge in Takum Local Government Area (LGA) of Taraba State, significantly affecting economic development. These conflicts, often driven by ethnic tensions, competition over land and water resources, political grievances, have disrupted key economic activities, particularly agriculture, trade, and investment. This study examines the extent to which communal violence impacts economic growth in Takum LGA, analysing its effects on productivity, market stability, infrastructure, and livelihoods. Using a qualitative method, the research dwelt on data gathered through surveys, interviews, and secondary sources. Findings indicate that frequent communal conflicts have led to displacement, loss of farmlands, business closures, and reduced investment confidence. The resulting insecurity has weakened local economies, discouraged infrastructural development, and exacerbated poverty levels. To address these challenges, the study advocates for sustainable peace-building initiatives, strengthened conflict resolution mechanisms, and improved security interventions. It recommends proactive government policies, enhanced inter-community dialogue, and targeted economic recovery programs to rebuild livelihoods and restore investor confidence. By fostering long-term stability, these measures can pave the way for sustainable economic growth in Takum LGA.

Challenges of Implementing Rice Anchor Borrower Programme for Food Security in Kogi State, Nigeria

Ahmed Tijani Yusuf — 2025-08-28

The smallholder rice farmers in Kogi State, Nigeria, are pivotal to national food security and economic stability, yet they face systemic challenges that undermine productivity, despite government policies targeting agricultural revitalization. The Diffusion of innovation theory was employed as theoretical framework and both primary and secondary methods were utilized. This study examines the interplay between federal and state agricultural rice policies—such as the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) and the persistent obstacles confronting smallholder rice farmers in enhancing food security. Through qualitative review of policy documents and academic literature, the research identifies critical gaps in policy implementation, including dilapidated rural infrastructure and climate vulnerabilities. Findings reveal inefficient government policies in tackling the challenges of food security. The study underscores the urgent need for stakeholder-inclusive reforms and enhanced climate-resilient infrastructure to empower smallholder farmers. By addressing these challenges, policymakers can unlock Kogi State’s potential to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s rice self-sufficiency goals. While existing studies broadly address agricultural challenges in Nigeria, there is little focus on the unique socio-political and ecological dynamics of Kogi State. On this note, the study’s recommendations include effective government policies and localized policy design that enhances food security.

Amotekun and the Fight against Crime: The Role of Technology in Community Policing in Southwest Nigeria

Olagoke Oluwafemi Awotayo — 2025-10-27

This paper looks at two promising strategies to improve public safety in Nigeria: giving state governments more control over gun regulation and using modern technology to strengthen community policing. It focuses on the Amotekun Corps a regional security outfit in the Southwest as a practical example of how these ideas can work on the ground. The core argument is that when states are allowed to manage firearm policies under federal guidance, they can respond more effectively to local security issues like armed robbery and kidnapping. Amotekun’s efforts show how technology such as data analytics, mobile communication tools, and surveillance systems can boost crime prevention and make operations more efficient. The paper proposes a hybrid model that blends innovation with localized governance. This approach could help build safer communities, increase public trust in law enforcement, and ensure greater accountability. Of course, there are risks like potential misuse of firearms or weak oversight but the study stresses the importance of strong regulations to keep things in check. In the end, it advocates for a security system that’s flexible, tech-savvy, and tailored to the unique needs of each region one that can adapt to Nigeria’s evolving safety challenges and offers a more stable future.

Rule of Law and Good Governance in Nigeria: Challenges and Cures

Dauda Mohammed Atiyaye — 2025-10-06

Despite an advancement in science and humanities, Nigerian still struggle with the issue of development. Rule of law and good governance are the major features of any civilized society today. The rule of law is a liberty centred constitutional concept which stipulates that everything must be done in accordance with the law. The rule of law is fundamental and prerequisite for good governance. Good governance floats on the rule of law, while the good governance promotes and sustains rule of law. Nigeria today, struggles with ensuring that the law applies equally to all. Corruption and bad governance have planted seeds that have stumped the progress of the rule of law and in turn negatively impacted the standard of living and development of Nigeria. The objective of this paper is to find out the extent to which rule of law has influenced good governance in Nigeria. Secondary data, generated through articles, books, scholarly journals were used for the analysis. Our findings indicate that, in principle, rule of law are elaborately provided in Nigeria, but in practice, good governance still eludes the country. Corruption, poverty, ignorance, inflation, declining productivity, maladministration, dictatorship, ethnicity and other primordial factors, as well as prevalent social vices are the road mines to good governance in Nigeria. Equitable distribution of resources, provision of qualitative education, economic restructuring of the society, freedom of the press and political reforms, among other recommendations, are fundamental for the enthronement of functional rule of law for good governance in Nigeria.

The Casualties of Greed: Governance Crises, Development Stagnation, and the Quest for Institutional Reforms in Nigeria

Tolulope Julius Omoyeni — 2025-08-18

The Nigerian State, Africa's most populous nation, has long struggled with governance crises rooted in corruption, political instability, and systemic inefficiencies. These challenges, largely driven by greed at various levels of government, have resulted in significant developmental stagnation, impeding economic growth, social progress, and the realization of the nation's full potential. This paper examines the intricate relationship between governance failures and their implications for sustainable development in Nigeria, emphasizing the critical role that institutional weaknesses play in perpetuating a cycle of underdevelopment. The study highlights that the true victims of Nigeria’s governance crises are the everyday citizens, who bear the brunt of mismanagement, poor policy decisions, and systemic corruption. Employing a Qualitative Critical Phenomenology (QCP) approach, this research analyzes secondary data, to explore the relationship between elite greed and developmental stagnation. Drawing upon the Conceptual Framework for Nigeria's Governance Crises and Developmental Stagnation, the study investigates how elite greed, ethnic and regional tensions, and institutional weaknesses have contributed to Nigeria's slow pace of development. This paper emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive systemic reforms that empower citizens to actively engage in governance and demand accountability from their leaders. The paper recommends civic education programs designed to raise awareness of existing accountability frameworks, such as the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and Whistle-blower Protection laws, enabling citizens especially in rural areas to challenge poor governance.

Power Sector Reforms and Citizen-centered Social Policy in Nigeria

Oladosu Olufemi — 2025-10-24

The Power sector reforms in Nigeria have evolved overtime. It aims to significantly revolutionize the electricity industry concomitant with various economic reform measures like privatization, liberalization, deregulation and regulatory changes. The maximization of social gain is the heartbeat of public policies. The core focus of these reforms is the need to create a loop of technicality, market-driven changes and citizen-centered social policy goals. The Electricity Act 2023 was a watershed in efforts to decentralize ownership, control, management and regulation to the sub-nationals. This was designed to sustainably promote renewable energy integration, and encouraging localized electricity markets. However, encumbrances surrounding political will, haphazard privatization, weak regulatory enforcement, gaps in infrastructural investments, and politicization of development drives continue to thwart progress, affect service provision and cost advantage for many Nigerians. Relying on a descriptive analysis of available secondary information, this study thematically reviews concepts that are related to power reform and social policy. With the use of systems theory, the power sector operates within an organically connected ecosystem where reform policies, operators, and citizen experiences create a continuum of feedback, mutually reinforcing one another. It was noted that effective reforms hinged on adequate political will must therefore institutionalize mechanisms for citizen involvement, autonomy for market actors, transparent tariff-setting and social protection to ensure equitable outcomes. To enhance the social impact of reforms policy, the study recommends strengthening operational independence and adequate regulatory schemes to enforce corporate social responsibilities and obligations of power sector investments to the citizenry.

Exploring the Impact of Job Rotation on Organizational Performance: A Qualitative Inquiry within the Yobe State Civil Service

Lawan Cheri — 2025-09-02

This study examines the perceptions and effects of job rotation on civil servants within the Yobe State Civil Service, with a focus on its impact on employee commitment and productivity. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through interviews and focus groups, and subjected to a thematic analysis. The findings reveal a duality of perceptions among civil servants: while the theoretical benefits of job rotation, such as skill diversification, knowledge acquisition, and the reduction of corruption, are widely acknowledged, the practical implementation of job rotation is viewed as a significant source of frustration. Key findings indicate that the current arbitrary and unstructured nature of transfers negatively affects both employee commitment and productivity. Participants expressed concerns over the inability to master a skill, leading to a "jack of all, master of none" effect, and cited instances of operational disruption caused by mid-task transfers. Consequently, the research suggests that resistance to change is primarily a result of a flawed implementation rather than the concept of job rotation itself. The study concludes with practical recommendations for the Yobe State Civil Service, advocating for a shift from the current arbitrary system to a structured, transparent, and predictable rotation policy to effectively harness the program’s potential for developing a more versatile and committed workforce.

Intergovernmental Relations and Coordination in Nigeria

Adebayo O. Adedeji — 2025-08-06

Intergovernmental relations have attracted scholarly attention in federal systems. A key aspect is how the intergovernmental structures and processes are coordinated in delivering public goods and services. Since the return to democratic rule in 1999, the Nigerian federation has witnessed both conflictual and cooperative relations among the tiers of government. Conflictual relations appear to be more predominant due to the constitutional provisions that create a superior-subordinate relationship between the federal and state governments. The activities of the state government also subjugate the local governments. Using Deil Wright’s authority relations model, this paper conceptualises intergovernmental relationships and examines Nigeria's federal-state, interstate and state-local relations. Similarly, it evaluates the state of intergovernmental coordination in implementing national policies. The paper concludes that conflictual relations characterise intergovernmental relations between the tiers of government in Nigeria due to the federal government's dominance. Likewise, coordination has not been effective in delivering public goods and services.

The Strategic Deployment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Contemporary Armed Conflicts: A Comparative Study of the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Gaza Conflicts

Zekeri Momoh — 2025-10-14

The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in modern conflicts has gained significant attention due to their strategic and tactical advantages. This study seeks to critically examine the impact and challenges associated with the deployment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in two contemporary conflict zones-the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Gaza conflict. This study argues that UAVs influence the battlefield, particularly in terms of surveillance, precision strikes, and logistical support, while addressing the operational and ethical challenges associated with their use. The methodology employed includes a qualitative approach, utilizing case study analysis and secondary data from textbooks and scholarly articles. Data was triangulated to provide a comprehensive understanding of UAVs' roles and their associated challenges, including issues related to technological limitations, international law, and the moral concerns arising from automated warfare. The study is framed through the lens of Realist Theory, which emphasizes the primacy of power, security, and state interests in international relations. In the context of the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Gaza conflicts, the use of UAVs is seen as a tool for advancing national security objectives and enhancing military capabilities. Realism helps to understand the strategic motivations behind the adoption of UAVs, while also highlighting the inherent challenges related to technological supremacy, sovereignty, and the law of armed conflict. Ultimately, this study aims to contribute to a nuanced understanding of how UAVs shape the modern warfare landscape and the challenges that accompany their integration into military strategies.

The Role of Digital Nomad Communities in Fostering Peaceful Cross-Cultural Exchange and Economic Growth in West Africa

Mukhtar Bello — 2025-08-28

The Digital nomadism is a lifestyle leveraging technology for remote work and global mobility, is gaining traction in West Africa, a region rich in cultural diversity and emerging digital economies. This study examines how digital nomad communities in Lagos, Accra, and Dakar contribute to peaceful cross-cultural exchange and economic growth. Using a mixed-methods approach, including surveys of 150 nomads, interviews with 50 stakeholders, and economic data analysis, the research reveals that nomads foster cultural understanding through collaborative initiatives like workshops and festivals, with 70% of nomads and 60% of locals reporting reduced stereotypes (study data, 2025). Economically, nomads drive growth, contributing 2% to Lagos’s GDP through $1,200 monthly spending and generating 200 jobs in Accra via mentorships (study data, 2025). However, challenges such as gentrification, with 22% rent increases in Lagos, and infrastructure gaps, like unreliable electricity, pose risks. These findings suggest that digital nomadism can enhance West Africa’s global economic role if supported by policies like digital nomad visas and infrastructure investments. For policymakers, the study advocates equitable frameworks to balance economic benefits with local needs. Local communities can leverage nomad collaborations for cultural and economic gains, while global stakeholders should recognize West Africa’s potential as a nomad hub, fostering sustainable development through inclusive integration.

Boko Haram Insurgency and Nigeria’s Foreign Policy in the Lake Chad Region

Dauda Yahaya Kashere — 2025-10-12

This paper examined the implications of Boko Haram insurgency on Nigeria’s foreign policy in the Lake Chad region. The study purposely evaluated how Nigeria’s foreign policy have been jeopardized, disrupted and negatively affected by the activities of Boko Haram insurgency and terrorism in the region. The study is purely qualitative in nature and used secondary data. The data were analyzed thematically through content analysis. The linkage theory was adopted in the analysis of this work. The findings of this study revealed that the emergence of Boko Haram insurgency and terrorist acts plummeted Nigeria’s relevance in the Lake Chad region and the international community. The insurgents’ activities led to the displacement of people from Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states in the form of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) fleeing to safer havens within the nation and refugees were fleeing to neighbouring countries like Niger, Chad and Cameroun in the region. It is therefore recommended among others that, Nigerian government should improve the socioeconomic conditions of Nigerians to dissuade them from all forms of recruitment to Boko Haram sect. Nigerian government should deepen collaboration with the governments of Member States of the Lake Chad Basin Commission to devise strategies to meaningfully address the Boko Haram insurgency through military and non-military approaches.

Decentralised Policing System and Insecurity in Nigeria: An Opinion Survey of Residents of Ovia North East Local Government Area, Edo State

Theophilus Arebamen Okojie — 2025-08-28

The study explored the opinions of the people of the Ovia Northeast Local Government, Edo State, regarding the increasing public opinion on decentralising the security system in Nigeria. The study was anchored on concentric circle theory that postulates that security management should begin from the community level, to the state level and the federal level for effective results. A sample of 400 residents of the Local government Area was obtained, and 352 questionnaires were returned. The data obtained were analysed with simple percentages, the mean and the standard deviation. The study found that respondents supported the creation of a state policing system backed by law in Nigeria; believe there will be no security implications for having state police because they believe that state actors will not hijack state police, collude with criminals to perpetrate crimes, use guns to steal from people or extort people; and believe that state police will be effective in tackling insecurity because they will work in the interest of the people rather than the Nigerian government. Based on these findings, the study, therefore, recommends that the National Assembly should amend the 1999 Constitution to accommodate the state policing system.

Effects of Farmers-Herders Skirmish on Nigeria National Security: An Appraisal

Muhammad Bello — 2025-11-10

Farmers-herders scrimmage is of late pervasive across the shores of sub –Sahara Africa. In Nigeria, the development has rapidly transcend the boundaries of the nation’s geopolitical zones and swiftly transforming dynamically and tactically involving its inhabitants as hardly would any group be off hook the act of pastoralism. This paper set out to evaluate farmer’s herder’s conflict in Nigeria and its challenges to national security. Details for the analysis were gather from primary and secondary sources through the use of documentary research technique and focus group discussion with knowledgeable on the subject matter, the literature were judiciously scrutinize using the descriptive methodology. The study revealed that while cases of farmer’s herders clash cannot be completely contained, the development is now taking a new dimension with the infusion of politicization, ethnicity and religious posture

Unveiling the Roots and Ripple Effects of Banditry in Katsina State: A Deep Dive into Causes and Consequences

Dauda Mohammed Atiyaye — 2025-10-07

This study explores the underlying causes and far-reaching effects of banditry in Katsina state, with a particular focus on the perspectives of local communities through qualitative methodologies. Using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) involving community members, stakeholders, and security personnel in Danmusa, Kankara, Batsari and Jibia Local government areas, this research aims at understanding the factors driving banditry and its social, economic, and psychological impacts. The qualitative approach enable the collection of rich, descriptive data, revealing the complexity of the issues beyond what factors contribute to the rise of banditry in Katsina state. Drug abuse emerged as a major catalystthat triggers criminal activities. Bad governance seemed a fertile reason for bandit groups to thrive. Furthermore, inter-tribal mistrust rooted in the longstanding farmers-herders conflict has exacerbated tensions, particularly between the Fulani nomadic herders and Hausa sedentary farmers. This mistrust, often ignited by competition over land and water resources, has led to communal strife, further destabilizing the region. The consequences of banditry are profound including kidnapping and displacement of communities to the disruption of agricultural activities, which form the backbone of local economy. The study also found significant psychological impacts, with many residents living in a constant state of fear and insecurity. Addressing the root causes requires a comprehensive approach, including strengthening governance, promoting dialogue between communities, and providing youth-oriented programs to curb drug abuse. This research highlights the need for policymakers and stakeholders to address the multi-faceted drivers of banditry to ensure sustainable peace and development in Katsina state.

Foreign Aid Effectiveness and Global Partnerships: Implications for Nigeria's National Development

Auwal Alhaji Jingi — 2025-08-19

Foreign aid has been a crucial factor in Nigeria's development, impacting economic growth, infrastructure, healthcare, and education. However, its effectiveness is often debated due to issues such as corruption, mismanagement, donor-imposed conditions, and aid dependency. This study examines the effectiveness of foreign aid in Nigeria and the influence of global partnerships on national development. Employing a conceptual framework, the research analyses various aid models, including bilateral and multilateral assistance, humanitarian aid, and technical support. Key findings highlight the relevance of theoretical perspectives like Dependency Theory, showing that foreign aid can either promote economic growth or entrench reliance on external support. A comparative analysis with Ghana and Rwanda emphasizes the significance of governance, policy alignment, and strategic aid utilization. While foreign aid has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s development, its potential remains unfulfilled due to structural inefficiencies and inadequate policy implementation. The study recommends enhancing transparency and anti-corruption measures, aligning aid with national priorities, reducing dependency through local revenue generation, and reforming donor conditionality’s. Furthermore, fostering regional partnerships and investing in sustainable initiatives will improve aid effectiveness. By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can move towards economic self-sufficiency while ensuring that foreign aid effectively supports national development

Scrutinising Nigeria's Electoral Trajectory: The Electoral Act 2022, The 2023 Polls, and the Judiciary's Verdict

Solomon Timothy Anjide — 2025-10-24

The Consistent scheduling of elections remains a cornerstone of Nigeria's democratic development. The 2023 general elections, marking the seventh consecutive electoral cycle since the 1999 democratic transition, significantly tested the nation's democratic infrastructure, particularly in light of electoral reforms encapsulated in the highly anticipated Electoral Act 2022. This paper critically examines the influence of this Act on the 2023 general elections and explores the ramifications of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal's (PEPT) judgment for the future of elections in Nigeria. It scrutinises the deployment of technological innovations, such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), for voter accreditation and results transmission, alongside the attendant operational difficulties. The analysis also highlights persistent challenges that cast doubt on the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) capacity to deliver transparent, free, and equitable elections in 2023. Employing a qualitative methodology, this study draws upon an extensive review of desktop literature, including official documents, academic books, journal articles, media reports, and legal instruments. Key findings indicate that several provisions within the Electoral Act 2022 suffer from ambiguity, with certain sections being overly broad or allowing excessive latitude for subjective interpretation. To bolster the credibility of future electoral contests, the study advocates for the safeguarding of voter interests through enhanced legal certainty across all electoral stages, necessitating the elimination of ambiguities within the Electoral Act and associated INEC guidelines. Such clarity is crucial to mitigate the risk of conflicting interpretations and foster greater public trust.

The Role of International Organizations in Conflict Resolution: Case Studies of the UN and EU in Africa

Bello S. Dantata — 2025-09-02

The role of international organizations in conflict resolution is crucial in maintaining global peace and security, particularly in conflict-prone regions such as Africa. This study examines the involvement of the United Nations (UN) in resolving conflicts on the continent, with a focus on its peacekeeping missions, mediation efforts, sanctions, and diplomatic interventions. Using the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) and Sudan (UNAMID and UNITAMS) as case studies, the research evaluates the effectiveness, successes, and challenges of the UN's interventions. The findings reveal that while the UN has made significant contributions in reducing large-scale violence, supporting democratic transitions, and providing humanitarian assistance, its missions often struggle with logistical challenges, political constraints, and operational inefficiencies. The study highlights the need for enhanced collaboration between the UN, regional organizations such as the African Union (AU), and local governance structures to ensure sustainable peace. The paper concludes that structural reforms, increased funding, and stronger political will are essential for improving the effectiveness of UN-led conflict resolution efforts in Africa.