Effects Of Political Thuggery On Democratization In Adamawa North Senatorial District: A Study Of 2023 General Election

Abstract

This study examined the effects of political thuggery on democratization in Adamawa North Senatorial District during the 2023 General Election. Political thuggery remains a major obstacle to democratic consolidation through voter intimidation, electoral violence, manipulation of election outcomes, and declining public confidence in the electoral process. The study sought to examine the causes of political thuggery and assess its influence on voter participation. The Elite Theory served as the theoretical framework. A survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from 391 respondents using structured questionnaires selected through random and purposive sampling techniques. Data were analysed using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. The findings revealed that youth unemployment, poverty, weak enforcement of electoral laws, low political awareness, and substance abuse were the major causes of political thuggery. The study also found that political thuggery intimidated voters, reduced voter turnout, promoted voter apathy, compelled citizens to vote under duress, and weakened public confidence in the electoral process, thereby undermining democratic participation and electoral credibility. The study concluded that political thuggery poses a serious threat to democratic governance in the study area. It recommended the implementation of sustainable youth employment and empowerment programmes, alongside stronger enforcement of electoral laws and improved election security to ensure free, fair, and credible elections.