Political Development in Nigeria
CHAPTER ONE
Objective of the study
The objectives of the study are;
- Investigate the extent and consequences of political corruption in Nigeria, analyzing its impact on democratic institutions, public trust, and socioeconomic development.
- Examine the strengths and weaknesses of electoral processes in Nigeria, including voter registration, campaign finance, and the conduct of elections, with the aim of identifying areas for improvement and enhancing the integrity of the electoral system.
- Examine the various security challenges faced by Nigeria, such as insurgency and separatist movements, analyzing their impact on governance, political stability, and the ability of the government to ensure the safety and welfare of its citizens.
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITERATURE
INTRODUCTION
Basically, the term, “development” is a multi-disciplinary concept replete with diverse perspectives and interpretations that stem from ideological inclinations. This indication underscored ambiguity in definition and interpretation of the concept which crystallized in traditional and modern views of development. In this vein, Gauba,(2003) stressed that the concept of development was evolved in the sphere of social sciences for guidance of new nations who won their independence after the second world war(1939-1945). Indeed, the idea of development itself was not new. Early indications of this idea are found in the social thought of nineteenth century and early twentieth century. It was largely expressed in the theory of social change. The change could be conceived as a transition from simple to complex forms, from less efficient to more efficient forms, or from ordinary to better forms. Succinctly, the polemics of traditional view of development (as earlier noted) has over the five decades thrown up ideological perspectives as embellished in Liberal and Marxian views of development. Accordingly, the liberal perspective conceived development as process of growth facilitated by foreign capital investment and industrialization. And, national per capita income represents a viable indicator of assessment and measurement of the growth trends. On other hand, the Marxian view conceptualized development as process observed in social well being of nationals facilitated through agricultural productivity, industrialization, importsubstitution strategy etc. Thus, human development index represents a viable indicator of assessment of Marxian development trends. Beyond the divergences on what development represents, it may be identified as a process in which a system or institution is transformed into stronger, more organized, more efficient and more effective form and prove to be more satisfying in terms of human wants and aspirations. It may be distinguished from progress as development subject to measurement on empirical scale whereas progress is concerned with moral judgment for which it applies normative criterion (Gauba, 2003:476). This conception obviously underlines the essentials of modern view of development. In this regard, Todaro and Smith (2011) documents that there are three basic components or core values which serve as a conceptual basis and practical guideline for understanding the inner meaning of development. These core values represent common goals sought by all individuals and societies because they relate to fundamental human needs that found expression in almost all societies and cultures at all time. These core values are; i. Sustenance: The ability to meet basic needs. All people have certain basic needs including food, shelter, health and protection. When any of these is absent or in critically short supply, a condition of ‘‘absolute underdevelopment’’ exist. ii Self-Esteem: To be a person. A second universal component of the good life is self-esteem. A sense of worth-and selfrespect, of not being used as a tool by others for their own ends. All peoples and societies seek some basic form of selfesteem, although they may call it authenticity, identity, dignity, respect, honor, or recognition. The nature and form of this self-esteem may vary from society to society and from culture to culture. However, with the proliferation of the ‘‘modernizing values’’ of developed nations, many societies in developing countries that have had a profound sense of their own worth suffer from serious cultural confusion when they come in contact with economically and technologically advanced societies. iii. Freedom from Servitude: To be able to choose. The third and final universal value of development is the concept of human freedom. Freedom as a core value of development entails sense of emancipation from alienating material conditions of life, and from servitude to nature, other people, misery, oppressive institutions, and dogmatic beliefs, especially that poverty is predestination. It is therefore concluded that development is both physical reality and state of mind in which society has, through some combination of social, economic, and institutional processes, secured the means of life. Whatever the specific components of this better life, development in all societies must have at least the following objectives: 1. To increase the availability and widen the distribution of basic life-sustaining goods such as food, shelter, health and protection. 2. To raise levels of living, including in addition to higher incomes, the provision of more jobs, better education, and greater attention to cultural and human values, all of which will serve not only to enhance materials well-being but also to generate greater individual and national self-esteem. 3. To expand the range of economic and social choices available to individuals and nations by freeing them from servitude and dependence not only in relation to other people and nation-states but also to the forces of ignorance and human misery (Todaro and Smith, 2011: 22). Perhaps, it was in cognizance of this modern view of development beyond the symbolism of ideologies or ideological perspectives that United Nations popularized a global targets of development as embellished in Millennium Development Goals and Targets
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain political development in Nigeria. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing the political development in Nigeria
Summary
This study was on the political development in Nigeria. Three objectives were raised which included: Investigate the extent and consequences of political corruption in Nigeria, analyzing its impact on democratic institutions, public trust, and socioeconomic development, examine the strengths and weaknesses of electoral processes in Nigeria, including voter registration, campaign finance, and the conduct of elections, with the aim of identifying areas for improvement and enhancing the integrity of the electoral system and examine the various security challenges faced by Nigeria, such as insurgency and separatist movements, analyzing their impact on governance, political stability, and the ability of the government to ensure the safety and welfare of its citizens.. A total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from residents in Lagos state. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
In conclusion, Nigeria’s political development has experienced significant transformations since its independence in 1960. The country has witnessed periods of military rule, democratic transitions, and political reforms. While progress has been made, Nigeria continues to face challenges that hinder its journey towards a stable and inclusive democratic system.
The study identified key challenges, including political corruption, electoral irregularities, ethnic and religious tensions, insurgency, and weak institutional capacity. These challenges undermine democratic governance, erode public trust, and hinder socioeconomic development. Addressing these issues is crucial for Nigeria’s political development and the consolidation of democracy.
To overcome these challenges, the study provided several recommendations. These include implementing effective measures to combat corruption, enhancing the integrity of the electoral process, promoting social cohesion and inclusivity, addressing security concerns, and strengthening democratic institutions. These recommendations aim to foster transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.
However, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of the study. Data constraints, subjectivity in analysis, and the evolving nature of political development are factors that should be considered when interpreting the study’s findings. Additionally, the practical implementation of recommended reforms may face obstacles and require careful consideration of political, social, and institutional dynamics.
Despite these limitations, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s political landscape and provides valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders. By addressing the identified challenges and implementing the recommended reforms, Nigeria can progress towards a stronger and more inclusive democracy, ensuring political stability, social cohesion, and sustainable development for its citizens.
It is imperative to recognize that Nigeria’s political development is an ongoing process that requires continuous effort, adaptability, and commitment from all stakeholders. By learning from past experiences, embracing democratic values, and working collaboratively, Nigeria can overcome its challenges and achieve a brighter future for its citizens.
Recommendation
Based on the analysis of Nigeria’s political development and the challenges identified, the following recommendations are proposed to foster democratic consolidation and address the key issues:
- Combat Political Corruption: a. Strengthen anti-corruption institutions: Provide adequate resources, autonomy, and capacity-building for institutions such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to effectively investigate and prosecute corruption cases. b. Enhance transparency and accountability: Implement measures such as asset declaration requirements for public officials, whistleblower protection, and the use of technology to promote transparency in government transactions and ensure public access to information.
- Enhance Electoral Integrity: a. Electoral reforms: Continuously review and update electoral laws and regulations to address shortcomings and improve the credibility of the electoral process. This includes strengthening the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and ensuring transparency in voter registration, vote counting, and result announcement. b. Civic education and voter awareness: Invest in robust civic education programs to enhance citizens’ understanding of their rights and responsibilities in the electoral process, as well as to promote voter education and participation.
- Promote Social Cohesion and Inclusivity: a. National dialogue and reconciliation: Facilitate inclusive and open dialogues to address underlying ethnic and religious tensions, promote mutual understanding, and foster national unity. b. Equal representation and inclusivity: Implement policies to ensure equitable representation of diverse ethnic, religious, and social groups in political decision-making bodies, promoting a sense of inclusivity and shared ownership of the political process.
- Address Security Concerns: a. Strengthen security institutions: Provide adequate resources, training, and intelligence capabilities to security agencies to effectively address insurgency, separatist movements, and other security challenges. b. Promote community engagement: Foster collaboration between security forces and local communities, emphasizing community policing and dialogue to build trust, gather intelligence, and mitigate conflicts.
- Strengthen Democratic Institutions: a. Judicial reforms: Enhance the independence, efficiency, and effectiveness of the judiciary by providing adequate resources, training, and support to reduce delays, corruption, and political interference. b. Capacity-building for institutions: Invest in training and professional development programs for key democratic institutions, such as INEC and anti-corruption agencies, to improve their capacity, expertise, and effectiveness in fulfilling their mandates.
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