Political Party and Democratic Growth in Nigeria 2019 -2022
CHAPTER ONE
Objective of the study
The objectives of a study on “Political Party and Democratic Growth in Nigeria 2019-2022” would aim to investigate, analyze, and provide insights into the specific aspects of the topic. These objectives would guide the research process and help in addressing the identified problems. Here are some potential objectives for such a study:
- To evaluate the influence and consequences of the continued dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) on the overall democratic landscape in Nigeria during the period 2019-2022.
- To analyze the causes and effects of political party fragmentation and the frequent defections of politicians
- To investigate the prevalence and consequences of electoral irregularities, violence, and allegations of misconduct during elections.
CHAPTER TWO
EMERGENCE OF POLITICAL PARTIES IN NIGERIA
Historical Overview
Political system is often affected by unique historical circumstances and so are political parties. For us to fully grasp the principle of political parties, we shall take a look at the ancient Greek city state. In the ancient Greek city state, the people appreciated the fact that democracy as a form of government involves the entire people. In modern times there is no way the whole people could be involved at the same time in running state craft. The option to approach this problem is therefore, a representative government where people can elect their representatives. To do this, the people formed themselves into groups according to their views on how best to run the state under the platform of modern political parties. Rodes et al (1983) notes that the historic root of the party is hinged upon the struggle for the legislature, especially in Europe, to limit the power of the monarchy and expand the electoral base of the people in 36 recognition of their interest. But it is worthy to note that every nation has a peculiar major especially in the 17th and 18th century England and indigenous political experience of the colonialist was said to be origin of political parties in the united state of America. The development of anti colonialist and nationalist struggle and in particular the constitutional reforms prompted and fueled the early formation of political party in Nigeria.
The history of political parties in Nigeria is complex and spans several decades, reflecting the country’s journey from colonial rule to independence and its post-independence political evolution. Here is an overview of the key milestones in the history of political parties in Nigeria:
Pre-Independence Era:
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- Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP): Established in 1923 by Herbert Macaulay, NNDP was the first political party in Nigeria. It represented the interests of the elite and was instrumental in demanding greater representation for Nigerians in colonial governance.
- Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM): Formed in 1934, NYM advocated for the political rights of Nigerians and pushed for constitutional reforms.
- Action Group (AG): Founded in 1950, AG, under the leadership of Obafemi Awolowo, was a prominent political party in Western Nigeria. It advocated for regional autonomy and social justice.
Independence and Early Post-Independence Era:
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- National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC): Founded in 1944, NCNC, led by Nnamdi Azikiwe, played a key role in the struggle for independence. It was a major political force in Eastern Nigeria.
- Northern People’s Congress (NPC): Founded in 1949, NPC, led by Ahmadu Bello, was a dominant party in Northern Nigeria. It advocated for regional autonomy and the preservation of Northern interests.
- Action Group (AG): As mentioned earlier, AG was a significant party in Western Nigeria, advocating for regional autonomy and social justice.
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CHAPTER THRE
INTERNAL DEMOCRACY ROLE OF THE PDP AND APC
CANDIDATE’S SELECTION/RECRUITMENT PROCEDURES.
Candidate selection which is synonymous with political recruitment is one of the important functions of political parties for all democracies in fact, many scholars define a political party in terms of this function (Schlesinger, 1991). Kartz (2001:277) notes that candidate selection is a vital activity in the life of any political party. It is the primary screening device in the process through which the party officers and aspirants are produced. The method which a party employs in candidate selection has incontrovertible implications on those selected or elected and indeed how they behave in either party or public office (Gallagher and marsh, 1988; mainwaning and shugart 1997). Importantly, katz (1995) argues that the technique of a party’s candidate selection explains and provides adequate information on how the party functions internally and the location of political power in a particular country. 55 Methods of candidates selections include primaries (either restricted to the party caucuses only or extended to ordinary party members), internal party elections, centralization, consensus etc. the differences in candidates selection procedures among parties is explained partly by the nature of a political party, partly by national laws, intra-party decision making and the electoral fortunes of parties (penning and Hasan 2001:269). However, the extent to which parties democratize their candidate selection procedures, despite its generic importance depends on the national laws and internal party rules, as well as the extent to which party leaders adhere to these laws. Structurally, the pdp is organized and administered at ward, local government, senatorial district, state zonal and national levels. At each of these organizational levels, there are relevant organs responsible for managing the party affairs. For example, at the national levels, there are five organs, viz:
- National executive committee (NEC)
- National working committee (NWC)
- The board of trustees (BOT)
- The national caucus.
CHAPTER FOUR
THE ROLE OF THE PDP AND APC IN GOVERNANCE
The Role of The PDP in Governance
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has played a significant role in governance in Nigeria since the return to civilian rule in 1999. Below, the outline the role of the PDP in governance in Nigeria:
- Foundation of the Fourth Republic:
- The PDP was instrumental in the establishment of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. It won the presidential election in 1999, marking the end of military rule and the beginning of democratic governance (Nnoli, 2007).
- Stabilizing Democracy:
- In the early years of the Fourth Republic, the PDP played a crucial role in stabilizing Nigeria’s fragile democracy. It provided a platform for political cooperation and consensus-building among various regions and ethnic groups (Agbiboa, 2013).
- Presidential Leadership:
- The PDP has produced several presidents since 1999, including Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan. These leaders implemented various policies and initiatives, including economic reforms, poverty reduction programs, and electoral reforms (Suberu, 2009).
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary
Political parties in Nigeria have played a crucial role in shaping the country’s democratic landscape from 2019 to 2022, Nigeria has witnessed the emergence of various political parties especially PDP and APC that have contributed to the development and consolidation of its democratic system. These parties have served as vehicles for political participation, representation, and the contestation of power.
Political parties in Nigeria have played a pivotal role in the country’s transition to democracy. After years of military rule, the return to civilian rule in 1999 was facilitated by political parties like the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), among others. These parties provided a platform for competitive elections and the peaceful transfer of power.
Political parties have been at the forefront of political competition in Nigeria. They have presented candidates for various elective positions, allowing citizens to choose their representatives and leaders through periodic elections. This competitive process has been essential for the functioning of Nigeria’s democratic system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study has shed light on the critical and evolving role of political parties in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Over the years, political parties have been instrumental in shaping the country’s political landscape, contributing significantly to democratic growth and development.
Political parties in Nigeria have played a pivotal role in stabilizing the democratic system. They have provided a platform for competitive elections, facilitating the peaceful transfer of power from one administration to another.
These parties have promoted political competition, allowing citizens to choose their representatives through regular elections. They have also served as vehicles for diverse interest groups and regions to be represented in the political process.
Political parties have formulated policies and manifestos that guide governance and provide voters with a basis for evaluating candidates. These policies have contributed to the democratic discourse and the development of the country.
The study has also highlighted challenges within the political party system, including issues of internal party democracy, factionalism, and allegations of corruption. These challenges underscore the need for ongoing reforms and improvements within the party structure.
Recommendation
These recommendations are based on the findings and insights from your study:
Political parties in Nigeria should prioritize internal democracy to enhance transparency and fairness in candidate selection processes. This can be achieved through the implementation of clear and democratic party constitutions, adherence to internal party rules, and the conduct of credible party primaries.
Political parties should actively promote inclusivity by encouraging the participation of women, youth, and marginalized groups in party activities and leadership positions. Affirmative action measures and quotas can be considered to achieve a more representative party structure.
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