Election Related Violence in Nigeria: Evidence Based Strategies for Prevention, Control and Mitigation

Electoral Related Violence (ERV) is a common feature of elections in some countries around the world; however it is more prevalent in developing countries. The resultant effects of ERV are similar in most settings where it is experienced. Such effects include poor democratic systems, unpopular governments and loss of lives and property among others. ERV is broadly divided into pre election, election and post election violence. This study seeks to explore the measures that can be taken towards the prevention, control and mitigation of ERV. For the purpose of this study, the mixed methods research was employed, both qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed in the data gathering process. A total of 500 randomly selected respondents who were employees of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were used for the study. A cross sectional survey was carried out; the respondents were interviewed and further issued questionnaires designed to gather relevant data. Data from this study showed that the male participants (68%) constituted the majority of the total respondents who participated in the study. The age distribution of respondents showed that 38% of the respondents belonged to the age bracket of 31 and 40 years, furthermore, about 71% of the respondents have witnessed various forms of ERV and only about 3% of the respondents still held some excitement about participating in core electoral activities. Results obtained from the study showed that the mitigation of ERV will mainly require a comprehensive health policy to cater for the needs of those affected by ERV. The study explored other settings where there were incidences of ERV and the measures that were taken to address it. The study further proffered recommendations on measures that can be taken to prevent, control or mitigate ERV. It recommended proper training for electoral workers, improved voter education, De-glamorization of Political Office, improved security presence and performance, control of corruption and the adoption of modern technology in the electoral process among other measures.