Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Grassroots mobilization has emerged as a cornerstone of effective election campaigns in democratic societies. This strategy involves engaging local communities at the grassroots level to build support for political candidates and parties. It encompasses a range of activities, including door-to-door canvassing, town hall meetings, and community-based initiatives. Recent studies underscore the importance of grassroots mobilization in fostering voter participation and ensuring the inclusivity of electoral processes (Okoro et al., 2023; Bello & Abdullahi, 2024). In Ilorin South Local Government, Kwara State, grassroots mobilization plays a pivotal role in shaping election outcomes. However, the effectiveness of these strategies depends on several factors, such as the socio-economic composition of the electorate, the organizational capacity of political parties, and the availability of resources. Despite its significance, challenges such as voter apathy, political violence, and misinformation often undermine grassroots mobilization efforts in the region. This study seeks to evaluate the strategies employed in grassroots mobilization during election campaigns in Ilorin South Local Government, with a focus on their effectiveness and challenges.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Grassroots mobilization is essential for engaging citizens in democratic processes, yet its effectiveness remains inconsistent in many parts of Nigeria. In Ilorin South Local Government, Kwara State, political campaigns often rely heavily on grassroots mobilization to connect with voters. However, several issues hinder its success, including inadequate funding, lack of proper planning, and poor voter education (Adebayo & Olatunji, 2023). Political parties often fail to establish sustainable relationships with local communities, focusing instead on short-term electoral gains. Furthermore, challenges such as political patronage and the use of coercion rather than persuasion weaken the impact of grassroots mobilization. This disconnect between mobilization strategies and electoral outcomes undermines the credibility of elections and leaves large segments of the electorate disengaged. To address these issues, it is crucial to examine the effectiveness of grassroots mobilization strategies in the region and identify ways to improve their efficiency and inclusivity.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Research Hypothesis
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study contributes to the understanding of grassroots mobilization strategies in Nigerian elections, with a specific focus on Ilorin South Local Government. It provides valuable insights for political parties and candidates on how to design and implement effective grassroots campaigns. The findings also benefit policymakers and election management bodies by highlighting the factors that promote or hinder voter engagement at the grassroots level. Furthermore, civil society organizations can use the research outcomes to advocate for improved voter education and participation. By addressing the challenges of grassroots mobilization, this study aims to strengthen democratic processes and promote more inclusive and credible elections in Kwara State and beyond.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on the evaluation of grassroots mobilization strategies employed in election campaigns in Ilorin South Local Government, Kwara State. It does not cover other local governments or states in Nigeria, nor does it address broader national-level mobilization efforts.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
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