Title: The Need For Independent Candidate In Nigeria Electoral Process: Issues And Challenges
Authors: HENRY ISHAYA, AMON RIMAMTANUNG STEPHEN, YANI RICHARD PHILIP
Volume: 10
Issue: 4
Pages: 105-109
Publication Date: 2026/04/28
Abstract:
The Nigeria electoral process especially in the fourth republic is bedeviled with lack of good internal democracy especially during nomination of candidates for general elections due to activities of stake holders and the executive arm which mostly unpopular candidate becomes the flag bearer. The best solution to break such anomaly of monopoly by the political parties and the executive arm of government is to allow independent candidate in the Nigeria Electoral Process which is faced with numerous challenges in Nigeria. The need for Independent Candidate in Nigeria Electoral process is facing a series of hindrances ranging from legal and constitutional Framework, financial constraints, policy rejection and voters perception. It is against this backdrop that the study examined The issues and challenges facing the need for Independent Candidate in Nigeria Electoral Process. The study recommended amendment of the section 221 of the 1999 constitution and Nigeria Electoral Act 2022 to give a constitutional and legal backing to the idea of independent candidates, discouraging money politics as well as reorientation of the citizens on the need for independent candidates.