| dc.description.abstract | Regular and credible elections are the cornerstone of every democracy, as the absence of such processes threatens democratic stability. However, in many developing democracies, political actors often view elections as a zero-sum contest where the winner takes all, frequently resorting to corrupt means to secure victory. In response, Nigeria has undertaken a series of reforms aimed at establishing a credible electoral system that fosters public trust in both the process and outcomes of elections. A key component of these reforms is the introduction of electoral technology. Thus, the study examines the role of technology in enhancing credible elections in Nigeria with a focus on the 2023 Bayelsa state gubernatorial election. Specifically, it examines the impact of election technologies in the November 2023 Bayelsa state gubernatorial elections, and examine the observed weaknesses or challenges in the election despite the application of election technology. This research is essential for understanding the complex intersection of technology, electoral governance, and democratic accountability in Nigeria. It offers evidence-based recommendations that can help reshape electoral reforms and promote sustainable democratic practices.
The study adopted a case study research design, a purposive sample of thirty (30) stakeholders including INEC officials, observer groups and civil society organizations (CSOs) was selected. Data were collected using interviews and analyzed through thematic analysis techniques. The study deployed thematic analysis to analyze the data gathered through interview.
In objective one, the study found that the 2023 elections, particularly in Bayelsa State, benefited significantly from improved electoral technology especially the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). This advancement enhanced accessibility to polling materials, reduced voting time, and boosted public trust by improving the credibility of both the process and the outcomes. However, regarding the second objective, the study identified several challenges. These included logistical and technical issues, equipment malfunctions, poor staff training, inadequate infrastructure, and concerns over data security and vote authenticity. These setbacks caused delays and confusion at polling units and posed risks to the overall integrity of the election process.
For objective one the study recommends among others that INEC should synergize with other democratic institutions to continually improve election technology to foster its efficacy and ease the voting and accreditation process. Thus, BVAS malfunction and delays in accrediting voters should be sorted out. The study recommends that INEC should base election result collation and calculation on the results snapped and uploaded to IReV as a measure towards building public trust and avoiding manipulation. For objective two, the study recommends among others that INEC should prioritize experience over cost by recruiting and retaining experienced auxiliary staff whose responsibility is to man the BVAS machines during elections instead of relying on NYSC members. The study concludes that electoral technology as introduced in Bayelsa 2023 election positively impacted the outcome and built public trust in INEC and the electoral process. Although, it encountered a few challenges, those challenges can be effectively addressed by INEC in subsequent elections. | en_US |
