IWF

Author(s):
Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi, peterawojobi@gmail.com,

Abstract: Elections are generally accepted in all climes of the world as the hallmark of democracy. Free, fair and credible elections in any democratic society are platforms for legitimate governments with the capacity to initiate and implement clearly articulated development programs, peace, and good governance in the society. This paper examines the causes and effects of post-election violence in Nigeria. Historical method was used for the research. It was discovered that most elections in Nigeria are characterized by violence either before, during or after elections. Electoral violence in Nigeria is as a result of misconceptions by politicians that politics is an avenue for the acquisition of extraordinary wealth, ineffective law enforcement agents, weak legal framework, poverty and campaign of calumny. Electoral Violence in Nigeria is one of the reasons for insecurity, death of some innocent citizens and lack of development. Nigerian government should strive to bring electoral violence to the barest minimum so that peace and development can be achieved in our Country.