Separatist Threat, Militarization and Voter Turnout: Exploring the Dynamics of the 2017 Governorship Election in Anambra State, Nigeria

Using the qual-dominant mixed methods approach, this study analysed the impact of the separatist threat and the militarization of elections on voter turnout during the 2017 governorship election in Anambra State, Nigeria. Findings indicate that perceived and real marginalization of the Igbo in Niger...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of Asian and African studies (Leiden) 2020-12, Vol.55 (8), p.1093-1107
Main Authors: Mbah, Peter O., Nzeadibe, Thaddeus C., Nwangwu, Chikodiri, Iheanacho, Ambrose O., Eze, Christopher Okonkwo, Ezeibe, Christian C.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Boycotts
Citizens
De-escalation
Demilitarization
Economic development
Elections
Escalation
Governors
Marginality
Militarism
Militarization
Political development
Separatism
Social exclusion
State building
Threats
Voter behavior
Voter turnout
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Summary:Using the qual-dominant mixed methods approach, this study analysed the impact of the separatist threat and the militarization of elections on voter turnout during the 2017 governorship election in Anambra State, Nigeria. Findings indicate that perceived and real marginalization of the Igbo in Nigeria’s state-building is largely driving the neo-Biafra separatist threat to boycott elections in Anambra State. This does not only account for the state militarization of elections in order to guarantee security; it also inadvertently engendered fear among citizens, undermined voter turnout and exacerbated political exclusion. This study concludes that inclusive political development presents an opportunity for de-escalation of separatist threats, demilitarization of elections and enhancement of voter turnout in Nigeria.
ISSN:0021-9096
1745-2538
DOI:10.1177/0021909620907934