Democracy And Electoral Integrity In The Nigerian 2023 General Elections: An Assessment

Abstract

This paper examines some of the most profoundly complex factors that influenced the 2023 general election process and its outcome in Nigeria. Methodologically structured in qualitative method, it drew its data from secondary sources; textbooks, journals, internet, official INEC website and from over 26 Nigerian daily Newspapers. These were contently analyzed within the context of the subject matter under consideration. Findings reveal that despite the optimism generated by INEC’s improved electoral technologies; Bi-modal Voting Accreditation System(BVAS) and INEC’s Results Viewing Portal(IREV) which aimed at guaranteeing the transparency of electoral results, the 2023 general elections was held amid difficult environment characterized by wide spread insecurity and uncertain governmental policies, operational and logistics challenges, malfunctioning electoral technologies, violence and intimidation, electoral fraud, lack of transparency in communication and collation of results, inadequate infrastructure among others. From these findings the paper recommended the imperatives of strengthening the institution of INEC by making it truly independent and in this way, it can guarantee a fraud-free election which will be a reflection of the will of Nigerians. This will bolster democracy and foster a more stable future elections in the country.