Implication of 2024 United State of America Presidential and Congress Elections: Issues and Lessons for Nigeria

Abstract

This brief delves in to the implications of the 2024 United States presidential and congressional elections, particularly Donald Trump's return to the presidency, present critical lessons for Nigeria as it navigates its own democratic challenges. The U.S. elections painted issues such as electoral integrity, political polarization, and the influence of populism, which resonate deeply within Nigeria's context of fragile democracy and ethnic divisions. The Trump's victory was facilitated by a focus on economic concerns and a strong appeal to working-class voters, paralleling Nigeria's need for leaders who can address economic discontent amid rising costs and declining public trust in governance. Furthermore, the U.S. experience underscores the importance of robust electoral processes and accountability mechanisms to prevent the erosion of democratic norms, a lesson that Nigeria must heed as it strives to strengthen its institutions against corruption and violence that marred its previous recent elections. In light of this, the following recommendations are proposed for legislative consideration: • Legislators should focus on strengthening the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) by ensuring it has the necessary autonomy, resources, and technology to conduct free and fair elections. • NASS may wish to consider implementing comprehensive campaign finance laws that limit/cap the amount of money candidates can receive and spend, as well as mandating public disclosure of campaign contributions. This would help mitigate the impact of "godfatherism" in Nigerian politics, where financial resources often overshadow candidates' capabilities and policies. cap • Law makers should work on establishing clear legal frameworks for resolving electoral disputes efficiently, minimizing court cases related to election outcomes, and ensuring that INEC has the authority to address candidate nomination disputes effectively. • Legislators should prioritize passing laws that create reserved seats for marginalized groups and promote initiatives aimed at increasing their representation in political parties and government positions.