Policing and the Challenge of Election Security in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the complex nexus between policing and election security in Nigeria, highlighting the recurring challenges by law enforcement agencies in ensuring credible, free, and fair elections. Nigeria’s electoral process has historically been marred by violence, voter intimidation, ballot box snatching, and other forms of electoral malpractice, often exacerbated by weak institutional frameworks and political interference. The study specifically interrogates the standard operating procedures and operational conduct of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) in the context of electoral security, as well as its coordination with other security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Drawing on case studies from Nigeria’s 2019 and 2023 general elections, the paper identifies systemic issues such as corruption, and weak institutional mechanism as major enabler for the formation and escalation of electoral violence. It argues for the police to be granted autonomy by amending section 215 of the 1999 Constitution to reduce the colossal influence of the president in the appointment of the leadership of the NPF, and for the standard police procedures and control to be rejigged to allow for state and local governments owned police. The study concludes that strengthening the credibility and effectiveness of policing is essential for safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic process and gaining public trust in electoral outcomes.