CHUKWU, GIFT ONYINYECHI (2025) INTERNATIONAL ELECTION OBSERVERS AND NIGERIA DEMOCRATIC CONSOLIDATION, 2019-2023. Other thesis, GODFREY OKOYE UNIVERSITY, ENUGU.
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Abstract
This study critically investigates the role of international election observers in the democratic consolidation process of Nigeria, with specific emphasis on the 2019 and 2023 general elections. It explores whether the participation and reports of these observers enhanced electoral credibility and triggered electoral reforms. This research adopts the Democratic Consolidation Theory, propounded by Juan Linz and Alfred Stepan in 1996, as its theoretical framework to assess how election observers influence the behavioral, institutional, and attitudinal dimensions of democracy in Nigeria. The research design is ex-post facto, which allows for the analysis of pre- existing events and their impacts without manipulation. The study relies on documentary methods for data collection, utilizing observer reports, INEC publications, electoral laws, and secondary scholarly sources. Data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis, providing a thematic evaluation of electoral credibility, reforms, and institutional responses to observer recommendations. Findings from the study reveal that international observers, such as the European Union Election Observation Mission, the Carter Center, and ECOWAS, played a significant role in promoting transparency and deterring electoral malpractice. Their recommendations led to some reforms, including the adoption of biometric voter accreditation systems like BVAS. However, limitations such as partial implementation of reforms, logistical constraints, and political resistance hindered the full impact of their interventions. Despite these challenges, international election observation contributed to the strengthening of electoral institutions and the gradual normalization of democratic norms. The study concludes that while international election observers alone cannot guarantee electoral integrity, their presence fosters accountability and provides critical insights for reforms. Therefore, sustained collaboration between domestic electoral institutions and international partners is essential for Nigeria’s democratic consolidation.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Other) |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | J Political Science > JA Political science (General) |
| Divisions: | Faculty of Arts > Faculty of Law > Faculty of Management and Social Sciences |
| Depositing User: | HILARY OBIEKWE |
| Date Deposited: | 19 Aug 2026 12:00 |
| Last Modified: | 19 Aug 2026 12:00 |
| URI: | http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/6279 |
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