A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ELECTORAL VIOLENCE AND POLITICAL APATHY IN THE 2019 AND 2023 GUBERNATORIAL ELECTIONS OF GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines the effect of electoral violence and political apathy during the 2019 and 2023 gubernatorial election in Gombe state, Nigeria. The objective of the study is to analyze how electoral violence influenced voter turnout and political disengagement in both elections. The research adopts a survey research design, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Data were gathered through the administration of questionnaires to 400 respondents in five local government areas and through key informant interviews with political stakeholders. Theoretical underpinning from is drawn from political culture theory. Findings reveal that electoral violence significantly contributed to political apathy in both 2019 and 2023, with voter intimidation, harassment, and destruction of electoral materials being prominent causes. The 2023 election experienced a reduction in violence and an increase in public trust in the electoral process, attributed to improved security measures and reforms implemented by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Despite this progress, political apathy persisted, especially among marginalized groups. The study concludes that electoral violence undermines democratic processes by deterring political participation and eroding public trust in elections. The study recommends strengthening law enforcement to prevent electoral violence, enhancing civic education to re-engage politically apathetic groups, and further reforming electoral practices to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria.