| dc.description.abstract | The study examined the high turnover rates among Nigerian legislators, with a focus on the Plateau Federal constituencies after the 2023 general elections. It aimed to understand the impact of frequent turnover on legislators' performance, legislative productivity, and the overall functioning of the legislature. The research identified challenges faced by legislators due to turnover and explored reasons for premature recalls by constituents or parties. Key objectives included assessing the effects of turnover on legislators' effectiveness, efficiency, and representation of constituents. It also looked at the correlation between legislator turnover and the continuity of policy initiatives and constituency projects. The study evaluated perceptions of constituents and stakeholders regarding legislators serving multiple terms versus those in their first term.
A mixed-method approach utilizing primary and secondary data was employed. Primary data included quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, while secondary data involved information from publications and reports. Surveys were administered to sixteen representatives and 400 respondents from Plateau's state eight federal constituencies, also in-depth interviews focused only on the states’ federal representatives from the ninth assembly. Data was analyzed using (charts and frequencies) tables and wording techniques. The research applied the accountability theory grounded in the principal-agent theory to analyze institutional accountability amid legislative turnover.
Findings indicated that high turnover negatively impacted relationships, productivity, institutional memory, access to resources, and personal development of legislators. It hindered stability, experience, efficiency, and effectiveness in the legislative process. Moreover, turnover disrupted policy consistency and development within the legislature, as new members often prioritized their agendas over existing projects and policies. This lack of policy consistency impeded development and stability. Variations in turnover rates were observed across constituencies, influenced by factors such as political godfathers, seat rotation, meeting constituency needs, and regional differences.
The study concluded that high turnover among Plateau State's federal representatives posed a significant threat to legislative effectiveness and governance. It undermined institutional memory, policy continuity, and the legislature's ability to hold the executive accountable. The study identified root causes such as political godfatherism, seat rotation, and constituents prioritizing short-term benefits, reflecting a systemic failure. These practices not only compromised legislative performance but also eroded public trust in democratic institutions. Without intervention, high turnover would continue to impede the legislature's capacity to serve the people and uphold governance. Recommendations included strategies and reforms to address challenges associated with turnover and enhance legislative performance. These strategies encompassed succession planning, mentoring programs, capacity-building initiatives, and institutional support systems. Emphasis was placed on encouraging competent members to return to the legislature, fostering party consensus on candidates, addressing judicial interference in elections, voter education, effective election management, internal party democracy, and reducing the influence of money in politics through continuous electoral reforms | en_US |
