DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

This study examined democratic governance and the impact of traditional rulers in Nigeria, with particular reference to Edo and Delta States. The research was motivated by the continued relevance of traditional institutions in governance despite Nigeria's adoption of a democratic system. The study sought to assess the roles performed by traditional rulers in promoting democratic governance, examine their contributions to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, community development, and political mobilization, as well as identify the challenges limiting their effectiveness in the democratic process. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The target population comprised traditional rulers, community leaders, public servants, and residents of selected communities in Edo and Delta States. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to respondents selected through an appropriate sampling technique. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviation. The findings revealed that traditional rulers continue to play significant roles in democratic governance by promoting peace and security, resolving communal disputes, preserving cultural values, facilitating grassroots development, and serving as intermediaries between government and the people. However, their effectiveness is constrained by constitutional limitations, political interference, inadequate financial support, and the absence of clearly defined roles within Nigeria's democratic framework. The study concluded that traditional rulers remain indispensable stakeholders in Nigeria's democratic governance and national development. It recommended that government should strengthen collaboration with traditional institutions, clearly define their constitutional roles, enhance their participation in grassroots governance, and provide adequate support to enable them to contribute more effectively to sustainable democratic governance and community development in Edo and Delta States.

This project was carried out to examine the Area of Political Participation and Gender Equality in Governance. It's significance captures the theoritical analysis in understanding the nitty - gritty of the variables (Political Participation and Gender Equality) am how it applies to Edo State basically in Ovia North East Local Government Area. The use of the Simple Percentage method was introduced as this study discovered internal issues and causative factors that plays around Political Participation and Gender Equality in Governance. Apart from the well known patriarchal system, the study proved the rise of contemporary issues and trends that plagues Gender Equality in Governance and the intriguing effect it has on Political Participation. The Study has also made provisions and offered recommendations to enhance effective Political Participation and address the issues and concerns of Gender Equality in Governance.

This study investigated the relationships among substance abuse, youth unemployment, and
community security in Edo South Senatorial District, Nigeria. The alarming prevalence of
substance abuse among youths aged 15–35 years, coupled with high youth unemployment and
rising insecurity, particularly cult-related violence, motivated the research. The primary
objective was to examine the interconnectedness of these three variables, with specific focus
on the perceived prevalence and patterns of substance abuse, the link between youth
unemployment and substance abuse, the influence of substance abuse on community security,
and its impact on youth political participation and civic engagement. The study adopted a
descriptive cross-sectional survey design. A sample of 300 youths was drawn through
purposive sampling across the seven Local Government Areas of Edo South Senatorial
District (Egor, Ikpoba-Okha, Oredo, Orhionmwon, Uhunmwonde, Ovia North-East, and Ovia
South-West). Data were collected using a structured 4-point Likert scale questionnaire and
analyzed with descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) using SPSS. The study was
anchored on an integrated theoretical framework comprising Social Learning Theory, Stress-
Coping Model, and General Strain Theory. Findings revealed a very high perceived
prevalence of substance abuse, dominated by cannabis, tramadol, codeine syrups,
methamphetamine, and polydrug use, with initiation commonly occurring between ages 15
and 25. A strong bidirectional relationship was established between youth unemployment and
substance abuse, while substance abuse was found to significantly undermine community
security through increased cultism, robbery, and violence. It also negatively affected youth
political participation and civic engagement. The study concluded that these variables form
a vicious, self-reinforcing cycle. The study recommends integrated interventions focusing on
youth employment generation, substance abuse prevention and rehabilitation, strengthened
security measures, and enhanced civic education. These findings provide empirical evidence
for policymakers, security agencies, and stakeholders to develop targeted strategies for
breaking the cycle in Edo South Senatorial District and similar contexts in Nigeria

This study examine the Anti-corruption crusade under Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari administration: A comparative study, The specific objectives are to determine the extent to which the public are aware of the anti-corruption crusade of both administration, to ascertain the level of public knowledge about the anti- corruption campaign, to identify the source of public knowledge about the anti- corruption crusade, to examine the perception of the people about the anti- corruption crusade method of data analysis data collected were presented quantitatively using simple frequency tables, percentages and numbers. The findings of the study, it is safe to conclude that the awareness on the anti- corruption crusade of Mr. President Goodluck Jonathan has gained grounds in South-South, Nigeria. This, no doubt, is the reason for the impressive 60% knowledge of the crusade among the people. For which 55.5% of the respondents are not satisfied with the corruption drive so far. This raises a big question on the drive itself and the way it is being approached. The Recommendations of the public need to predispose themselves to the acquisition of knowledge on the anticorruption drive of President Buhari. This is because 60% knowledge might not be enough to appreciate the effort of this administration in fighting corruption. On the aspect of the sources of information, it is recommended that people should use their new media gadgets to source for more information regarding the anti-corruption drive. This will no doubt improve the knowledge of the people on the approach and strategies taken to curb corruption in the country.

This study investigates the role of religion in shaping voter turnout during the 2023 presidential election in Nigeria, with a particular focus on how religious institutions, faith leaders, and religious identities influenced political participation. Using a mixed-methods approach that combined survey data from respondents with in-depth interviews from selected religious leaders, the research explored four key areas: religious mobilization efforts, turnout patterns in Christian and Muslim communities, the influence of religious affiliation on participation, and voters’ perceptions of religion’s role in electoral decision making.
The findings reveal that religion served as both a motivational and moral force In the electoral process. The quantitative results showed that a significant proportion of voters believed religious institutions shaped their willingness to vote and influenced how they assessed candidates’ credibility. In-depth interviews with religious leaders also buttressed this fact, especially in communities where political
apathy had been historically high. While some religious leaders actively encouraged civic participation, many expressed a commitment to political neutrality, highlighting the tension between moral guidance and partisan restraint. The study concludes that religion remains a powerful social force in Nigeria, capable of encouraging voter participation, shaping political judgement, and reinforcing collective identity. However, it also cautions that the intersection of faith and politics must be managed with care to avoid polarization.
The research recommends greater use of religious spaces for civic education, increased collaboration between faith groups and civic organizations, and further scholarly exploration of regional variations in religious political engagement. This work contributes to ongoing debates on democracy, identity, and political participation in multi-religious societies.

Examining Twitter Network Restriction: A Violation of Nigerian Citizens' Fundamental Rights (A Case Study of Twitter Ban) with Edo State as a case study is the study's main objective. The study readily enrolled 90 individuals and used a survey research approach. But from the recruited participants, a total of 85 replies were received and verified. Chi-Square was used as a statistical method to test the hypothesis (SPSS). The study's conclusions showed that the Twitter network ban severely violated Nigerian individuals' fundamental human rights. It also breaches Section 39 of the Constitution by impairing the social
and economic rights that Nigerian people are given by Chapter 11 of the Constitution by breaching their right to freedom of communication, association, and expression. Furthermore, the study's findings showed that the now-repealed Twitter ban was a grave abuse of power since it put the president's personal interests ahead of those of the nation and its citizens and was not implemented democratically. The study consequently suggests that, in the future, the federal
government of Nigeria should endeavour to follow constitutional processes and guidelines in ways of dealing with situations like these. The Nigerian federal government should also acknowledge that the Twitter Network ban has an impact on a variety of economic sectors

This study, titled Exploring Feminism and the Decline of Women’s Participation in Nigerian Politics, investigates the systemic and historical factors contributing to the underrepresentation of women in Nigerian political leadership, despite their significant demographic presence. Utilizing a feminist theoretical framework, the research examines the interplay of patriarchy, colonial legacies, and socio-cultural barriers that have marginalized women since Nigeria’s independence in 1960. Despite constitutional guarantees of non-discrimination and international commitments like the Maputo Protocol, women occupy only 5.2% of seats in the National Assembly as of 2023, with only 381 female candidates among 4,259 in the 2023 elections. Conducted in Ovia North East Local Government Area, Edo State, the study employed a survey research design with a sample of 120 respondents, using a structured questionnaire analyzed via SPSS for frequency and percentage distributions. Findings reveal low social acceptance of women’s political roles, with women constituting about 60% of the electorate but holding less than 20% of political offices. Historical data indicate a shift from pre-colonial gender balance to post-colonial patriarchal entrenchment, with challenges including inadequate knowledge of political rights (71.67% agreement), family responsibilities (74.17%), cultural stereotypes (64.17%), financial constraints (74.16%), and gender inequality (65%). Proposed measures to enhance participation include eliminating discrimination (77.5%), ensuring equal opportunities (85%), creating harassment-free environments (76.67%), empowering women through human resource development (80.84%), and building NGO coalitions (84.16%). The study aligns with existing literature highlighting patriarchy and resource gaps as key barriers while recommending policy reforms, economic empowerment, and advocacy to achieve gender parity in Nigerian politics. This research contributes to feminist discourse and provides actionable insights for policymakers, civil society, and stakeholders to foster inclusive governance and advance gender equality in Nigeria.

Underdevelopment in Nigeria has been attributed to numerous factors, both internal and external, which continue to hinder the nation’s socio-economic progress. Overcoming these challenges is a very necessary topic for both the general public and the government. It is essential for sustainable development and national growth. The study seeks to explain and understand the root causes of underdevelopment in Nigeria and examine its effect on society and the state. It also explores possible pathways for overcoming these challenges, drawing insights from scholarly suggestions and recommendations, empirical research, and past studies. The research adopts a qualitative approach, relying on secondary data from academic articles, books, government and international bodies reports, and publicized works. Through the use of theories like the Modernization theory, the Dependency theory, and the Human Development theory, we are able to understand the causes of and solutions to underdevelopment. Finding reveal that corruption, weak institutions, and the structural nature of Nigeria's economy has contributed significantly to underdevelopment. External factors such as unequal trade relations, foreign aid dependency, and the colonial legacy further compound the problem. All these have hindered development efforts, and continue to make life hard for citizens, while moving the state backwards.

This study examines the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in monitoring political party campaign financing in Nigeria, with particular reference to Edo State. The research explores the extent to which INEC fulfills its constitutional mandate of ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with electoral laws governing political financing. It identifies key challenges faced by the Commission, including inadequate legal enforcement mechanisms, limited financial and human resources, lack of political will, weak inter-agency collaboration, and the pervasive influence of money in politics. Using a mixed-method approach comprising
questionnaires, , and document analysis, the study assesses the effectiveness of INEC’s monitoring framework and the level of compliance among political parties in Edo State. Findings reveal that despite existing regulations, campaign financing in Nigeria remains largely opaque and under-regulated, thereby undermining the integrity of the electoral process. The study recommends strengthening INEC’s institutional capacity, revising electoral laws to include stricter sanctions for violations, enhancing transparency through digital financial tracking systems, and promoting civic education on campaign finance ethics. These measures are essential for fostering credible elections and deepening democratic governance in Nigeria

This study examined the relationship between interparty rivalry and national development in Nigeria, focusing on the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. The study aimed to assess how political rivalry, policy implementation, party system balance, and socioeconomic consequences influence national development. A quantitative survey research design was adopted, and data were collected through the administration of structured questionnaires to selected respondents. The data viii obtained were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including multiple regression analysis, with the aid of SPSS Version 27. The results revealed that political rivalry had a significant negative effect on national development (β = 0.362, p = 0.000), indicating that excessive competition and political intolerance weaken governance and hinder progress. Policy implementation and party system balance both showed significant positive effects (β = 0.328, p = 0.001; β = 0.314, p = 0.002 respectively), suggesting that effective governance and stable political structures promote sustainable development. Socioeconomic consequences, such as unemployment and insecurity, had the strongest impact on national development (β = 0.386, p = 0.001). The regression model produced an R value of 0.734 and an R Square of 0.645, indicating that about 64.5% of the variation in national development is explained by the combined effects of the independent variables. The study concluded that interparty rivalry among major political parties in Nigeria poses a major obstacle to national development by fostering instability, policy inconsistency, and weak governance cooperation. It recommends the promotion of political tolerance, institutional reforms, policy continuity, and interparty dialogue to enhance democratic maturity and sustainable development in Nigeria.