Background of the Study
Female political candidates in Nigeria face numerous challenges in their quest to win elections, particularly in local government areas such as Makurdi, Benue State (Usman & Tunde, 2024). These challenges include cultural barriers, gender biases, and limited financial resources, which affect their ability to execute effective campaign strategies (Ajibola & Moses, 2023). Despite these obstacles, many female candidates have developed unique strategies to engage voters and increase their chances of success in the electoral process. The role of campaign strategies, such as grassroots mobilization, media outreach, and strategic alliances, is crucial in overcoming the structural barriers that hinder women’s political participation (Ogunleye & Lawal, 2025). This study aims to evaluate the campaign strategies employed by female political candidates in Makurdi Local Government Area and assess how these strategies impact their electoral outcomes.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Women in Makurdi Local Government Area, like in many parts of Nigeria, are underrepresented in politics due to a variety of factors, including societal gender norms, limited access to resources, and less exposure to political leadership (Aminu & Bello, 2023). Female candidates face difficulties in effectively communicating their platforms and connecting with voters due to entrenched patriarchal structures that prefer male leadership. This study seeks to examine the specific campaign strategies employed by female candidates and their effectiveness in overcoming the gender-specific challenges they face during elections in Makurdi.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To identify the key campaign strategies employed by female political candidates in Makurdi.
To evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies in enhancing female candidates’ electoral prospects.
To explore the role of voter education and community engagement in the campaign strategies of female candidates.
1.4 Research Questions
What are the common campaign strategies employed by female political candidates in Makurdi Local Government Area?
How effective are these campaign strategies in improving the electoral chances of female candidates?
What role does voter education and community mobilization play in the campaign strategies of female candidates in Makurdi?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
Female political candidates in Makurdi use distinct campaign strategies compared to male candidates.
The campaign strategies of female candidates significantly influence their chances of electoral success in Makurdi.
Voter education and grassroots mobilization play a crucial role in the effectiveness of female political candidates' campaigns in Makurdi.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant because it provides insights into the unique challenges female candidates face in local elections and the strategies they use to overcome these barriers. Understanding these strategies can inform future campaigns and help political stakeholders, such as party leaders and electoral bodies, develop targeted interventions to increase female political participation. Additionally, the study could contribute to the broader discussion on gender equality in Nigerian politics.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on female political candidates in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State, analyzing the strategies they use during campaigns. It will be limited to the period of electioneering activities and may not account for post-election strategies or long-term political engagement. Limitations include challenges in accessing campaign data due to the sensitivity of the information and the reluctance of candidates to disclose campaign strategies.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Campaign Strategies: The plans and tactics used by political candidates to win voter support during election campaigns.
Grassroots Mobilization: Efforts to engage voters directly at the community level, typically through door-to-door outreach, rallies, and local meetings.
Voter Education: Programs or activities designed to inform the electorate about the election process, candidates, and political issues.
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