Electoral Challenges in Nigeria and the Role of INEC: A Case Study of 2023 General Elections

Abstract

Abstract
This study aims to investigate the obstacles affecting the peaceful conduct of elections in Nigeria, focusing
on the 2023 elections held by INEC as a case study. While some African nations have managed to conduct
transparent elections, others like DR Congo and Nigeria have faced challenges like rigging and violence
despite efforts to ensure credibility. Nigeria, specifically, has witnessed violence, ballot theft, vote buying,
and electoral malpractices, hindering the attainment of free and fair elections. Before the 2023 elections,
INEC reported attacks on 53 of its offices across Nigeria, with ongoing violence persisting. This paper
critically analyzes these challenges to identify their root causes and proposes solutions to facilitate
transparent and credible elections in Nigeria. Through a method of critical analysis, it argues that
politicians, citizens, INEC, the judiciary, and the government all bear responsibility for ensuring successful
polls. Additionally, it suggests that adopting successful strategies used by countries like Senegal, Angola,
and Kenya could provide insights for Nigeria to overcome these challenges.