Over the years, general elections in Nigeria have recorded some violence and killing, causing many voters to prefer to stay safe in their homes than go out to cast their ballot. This drives apathy.
According to a report by Human Rights Watch, Nigeria’s elections since 1965 till date has had reports of widespread violence, which comprises intimidation, killings, and destruction of properties.
Since the conduct of the first post-independent elections in 1964/1965 till date, over 3,000 persons have lost their lives via election-related violence according to Humangle media.
History of post-independence elections in Nigeria
Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria, like every other country has had its fair share of turbulence which has added to its history.
Elections in Nigeria began in 1963 three years after her independence, as well as when Nigeria achieved the status of a republic.
There were only three political parties at that time, the incumbent Northern Peoples Congress, and the opposition parties made up of the Nigerian National Alliance (NNA) and United Progressives Grand Alliance (UPGA).
As a result of the boycott by some regions in the country, the election that was meant to take place on December 30, 1964, did not take place until March 18, 1965. This election was marred by reports of violence which claimed an estimation of 200 lives.
In 2003, Obasanjo was reelected president in an election that was condemned due to violence and malpractices.
The 2007 elections followed suit, with allegations of electoral malpractice and violence. The election saw Obasanjo’s anointed candidate, Umaru Yar’Adua emerge as the winner.
In 2011, the emergence of Goodluck Johnathan as the winner of the elections caused post-election violence which led to the death of at least 800 people over three days of rioting in 12 states across northern Nigeria — the worst case so far in the country’s political history.
The 2015 election which for the first time in Nigeria’s history saw a candidate of an opposition party emerging as the winner, accounted for the death of more than 100 people during and after the 2015 polls. The election was regarded as peaceful compared to the previous two.
In 2019, the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room reported that about 626 persons were recorded to have lost their lives in the six-month period between the commencement of electoral campaigns and the electoral act of voting itself in election-related violence.
Safety tips for voters during elections
Stay up to date: Having the right news at the right time is very critical during this season. As such, it’s pertinent to get information about recent happenings from credible sources, so as to stay abreast with day-to-day security details in your locality.
Carry cash: We understand the cash situation in the country at this time has been challenging, however, we believe having some cash can help in meeting basic needs. We do not advise carrying so much cash, but enough to eat and move from point A to point B.
Share live location: We know that privacy is a top priority for many, but given the history of violence in the nation, sharing your location with trusted contact would help in accountability as well as give your contact peace of mind. Let someone know where you are at all times on election day.
Avoid public political arguments: Avoid arguing about politics in public places such as the market, bus, and places of worship. This is so you do not dabble into the argument that may end up as a fight.
Avoid crowded places: More often than not, a crowded place is a primary target for riots or stampedes. It’s advisable to stay away from crowded places as much as possible. If you do not need to be there, stay away.
Avoid late nights: Prowling at night is highly discouraged during this season. It’s advised to wrap up all activities before the night falls.
Always have airtime: Having airtime this season helps in cases of emergency. If you need to borrow from your service provider, please find out the necessary shortcode.
Avoid unnecessary travel: A week before the elections, it’s advised that unless critical, all travel should be avoided till after the elections.
Stock your home with food: While the plans show that this election will be relatively peaceful, we advise that you prepare enough food to keep you going for a few days post-election. No need to panic buy anything, just have the basics at home.
Keep necessary helplines: During this period, having numbers of police officers, the fire service, and medical personnel would help a great deal and ensure reduce panic as the times demand.
Don’t partake in election violence: Given the history of the country, protests and riots are often end up sadly, and very rarely solve the problem or address the issues. Don’t join riots, don’t foment violence, and be civil, be safe.
Leave a Reply