AN EXAMINATION OF THE POST-ELECTORAL PROCESS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Election is one of the most essential ingredients of democracy, its conduct has remained a challenge to democratic governance not only in Nigeria but also almost all over the world. Nigeria’s electoral process from the first one in 1922 during colonialism to the last one has been characterized by a lot of prospects and challenges. Democratization involves the process of making democracy work in a political setting and ensuring that the core principles for democratic practice are upheld. The electoral process does not end after the results are declared. Several other post-electoral processes can mar a peaceful election if not properly taken care of. The electoral process as practised in Nigeria is both indigenous and dynamic with its localized prospects and challenges. Over the years, Nigeria has continued to search for better ways of consolidating its fragile democracy. This study, therefore, seeks to examine how the electoral process, particularly the post-election process has contributed to strengthening democratic governance in Nigeria within the period under study. A doctrinal research methodology was adopted and the the findings of this study is to the effect that the Electoral process in Nigeria though developing can still adopt the recommendations as prescribed in this paper to meet up with international best standards.