Political Parties and Electoral Administration in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria: Assessing the Role and Performance of INEC
Abstract This study critically examines the relationship between election administration and sustainable democratic governance in Nigeria, with particular focus on the 2019 and 2023 presidential elections in Akwa Ibom State. The research investigated two core objectives: the role of political parties in sustaining democratic governance and the effectiveness of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in administering credible elections. A descriptive survey design was adopted, utilising a structured questionnaire and relevant secondary data from scholarly publications and official reports. Data were analysed using the chi-square (χ²) statistical method at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that political parties play a pivotal role in deepening democratic values through voter mobilisation and issue-based campaigns. However, their effectiveness is hampered by internal undemocratic practices, violent conduct, and prioritisation of personal or sectional interests over national development. The study also found that while INEC demonstrated efforts in election preparation and logistical deployment, its performance was undermined by political interference, operational inefficiencies, and the compromise of security agencies during election periods. These weaknesses negatively impacted the credibility and transparency of the electoral process, posing challenges to Nigeria's democratic consolidation. The study recommends strengthening INEC's autonomy and institutional capacity, enforcing internal democracy within political parties, and enhancing synergy among election stakeholders...
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