Background of the Study
Electoral bribery is a major challenge to the integrity of elections worldwide, including in Nigeria. In Jalingo Local Government Area (LGA), Taraba State, instances of electoral bribery have been reported, where voters and election officials have been alleged to accept financial incentives or other forms of gratification in exchange for votes (Muhammad & Lawal, 2023). Such practices undermine the credibility of elections by distorting the fairness of the electoral process and compromising the will of the people. Bribery in elections can also discourage citizens from participating in the democratic process and erode trust in the electoral system (Olugbenga & Ayodele, 2024). The 2023 general elections in Jalingo have raised concerns regarding the prevalence of bribery during campaigns and voting, prompting this study to assess its impact on the perceived legitimacy and credibility of the elections.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Electoral bribery in Jalingo has raised significant concerns about the integrity of the 2023 elections. The problem lies in the way that bribery distorts voters’ decisions, leading to the election of candidates who may not reflect the true preferences of the electorate. This study aims to assess the extent of electoral bribery in Jalingo and its negative effects on the credibility of the electoral process.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To assess the prevalence of electoral bribery during the 2023 elections in Jalingo.
To evaluate the impact of electoral bribery on the perceived legitimacy and credibility of the election results in Jalingo.
To explore the measures taken by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders to address electoral bribery in Jalingo.
1.4 Research Questions
What is the extent of electoral bribery in Jalingo during the 2023 elections?
How does electoral bribery affect the credibility of election results in Jalingo?
What measures were taken to prevent and address electoral bribery in Jalingo?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
Electoral bribery significantly undermines the credibility of election results in Jalingo.
The perception of electoral legitimacy is negatively affected by the prevalence of bribery in Jalingo.
Anti-bribery measures by INEC and other stakeholders reduce the occurrence of electoral bribery in Jalingo.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to the understanding of the role of electoral bribery in influencing election outcomes and perceptions of electoral fairness. By assessing the impact of bribery on election credibility in Jalingo, the study will provide insights that could help policymakers, electoral bodies, and civil society organizations develop more effective strategies to combat electoral malpractice.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on the assessment of electoral bribery in Jalingo Local Government Area, Taraba State, with a specific emphasis on the 2023 general elections. It will not explore other local government areas or the broader national electoral context. A limitation of the study is that respondents may be hesitant to disclose information on electoral bribery due to fear of retribution or social stigma.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Electoral Bribery: The act of offering or accepting financial or material incentives to influence voting decisions.
Election Credibility: The degree to which election results are perceived as fair, transparent, and reflective of the voters' true preferences.
Legitimacy: The acceptance of election results and the belief that the electoral process was conducted fairly.
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Chapter One: Introduction
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