THE POWER OF INCUMBENCY IN NIGERIAN ELECTIONS

Abstract

This working paper tries to apply studies on the benefits of incumbent status in elections in democracies that are solidifying to Nigeria's presidential and gubernatorial elections in March and April 2015. The Federal system in Nigeria, which has directly elected executives in charge of considerable state resources and powers both at the national level and in each of the 36 component States, offers a scenario where the interaction of incumbency powers is complicated but unquestionably crucial. With the use of analysis based on the 2011 elections, which were comparable in many keyways, we try to map the expected patterns resulting from these elements. This enables us to conduct an analysis that can subsequently be compared with real results, allowing us to assess the validity of this thesis and the significance of our findings in relation to other factors that influence election outcomes. The article demonstrated "the link between incumbency factor, internal party democracy, and democratic consolidation in Nigeria" by providing strong evidence. The paper is especially important for those involved in Nigeria's democratic process because it will make them more aware, stop them from abusing their positions of power, and make sure they follow the principles of internal party democracy, which will help Nigeria's democracy grow and consolidate more quickly.