Since Nigeria returned to democratic rule in 1999, after years of military dictatorship, many had high hopes that democracy would bring good governance, accountability, and development. But after over two decades, the story is far from what Nigerians expected. One of the biggest problems dragging the country backwards is electoral malpractice.
Every election season, the same issues repeat themselves: vote buying, ballot box snatching, result manipulation, and intimidation of voters. These acts have become so common that many Nigerians now believe their votes do not count. And when people lose confidence in the electoral system, democracy begins to lose its value.
Today, many politicians no longer see elections as a contest of ideas, but as a business venture. With deep pockets, they buy their way into office, buy party tickets, buy delegates, and buy votes during elections. Because of this, public office holders feel they owe nothing to the people. Instead of being accountable, they do whatever they like, knowing nobody will challenge them. After all, they did not get into power through the people’s mandate but through the power of money.
Government must rise to the occasion and restore faith in our democracy. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must be empowered to conduct truly free and fair elections. Electoral offenders must be punished swiftly and without bias, no matter their status. The judiciary should not be a tool in the hands of politicians, but a strong pillar of justice.
Civil society groups, religious leaders, traditional rulers and the media also have a role to play. Nigerians, especially the youth, must be educated about the power of their votes and why they should not sell it for peanuts. If we continue like this, the hope of a better Nigeria will keep fading.
The time to act is now. Electoral malpractice must stop if we want real development. Nigeria deserves better.