VOTE TRADING AND ELECTIONS IN NIGERIA: DEMOCRACY AS AN ARTICLE OF TRADE

Abstract

This paper is underscored by the commodification and trading of votes in Nigeria which has been pointed as posing a negative tale to elections, democracy, and good governance. Domestic and global studies including election observers have established that there has always been widespread vote buying and vote-to-sell in Nigeria. To that extent, this paper examines the issue of vote trading in Nigeria to highlight its attendant implications for present and future elections, democracy, and governance. Using descriptive and content analysis methods of investigation and gathered data through secondary sources the paper observes the following questions: What is the narrative of vote trading in Nigeria? Why do politicians buy votes? Why do people sell votes? Is vote trading conditioned by individual beliefs or the social norm? What are the consequences of vote trading on governance? What are the possible solutions to the problem? The paper argues that candidates and political parties engage in material gratification and vote trading during elections. And that vote trading is propelled by independent, individual decisions and mainly by material circumstances. It further contends that the more politicians engage in vote buying and gratification the more unstable the electoral process becomes because it prevents credible candidates from running for political office. After all, they do not have the humongous amount required to contest an election. The study concludes that material voting selling buying, and gratification pose negative tendencies for the Nigerian political system, democracy, and good governance if not properly handled.