How Violence Could Affect Nigeria’s 2023 Elections

Nigeria’s general elections will kick off on the 25th of February 2023 against the backdrop of security and economic challenges. In the last couple of months leading to the polls, political declarations, primary elections, peace accords, court cases, and campaign promises have been the order of the day. These activities have intensified political conversations and, in some cases, violence among party officials and supporters. Even ordinary residents are not left out in the wake of campaigns and campaign-related violence. Anecdotal accounts of many Nigerians about the election reflect renewed political consciousness, uncertainties about the credibility of the polls, and their preferred choice of candidates and parties.

The report adopts a regional overview style comprising Nigeria’s six geo-political zones. The regional overview approach gives context-specific data and information on existing conflicts, actors, and their likely involvement in the polls. It also itemises the causes and consequences of post-election violence. Finally, tailored recommendations to help navigate the possibilities of electoral violence have been provided in the report.

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