Examining Electoral malpractice and challenges of Nigeria's democratic consolidation through a biblical perspective

Abstract

Election in any democratic society is meant for people to choose their representatives in the government. It is a complex process that involves the registration of voters, collection of voter's cards and the casting of votes at polling units on the day of election. A survey of Nigeria's elections from the first to the Fourth Republic reveals that they are marred by various forms of malpractices ranging from the use of thugs for intimidation of opponents, snatching of ballot boxes, underage voting, use of fake ballot papers, bribery, manipulation of results and so on. This paper examines the causes and effects of electoral malpractices on Nigeria's 
democracy in the Fourth Republic. It also aims to proffer solutions to these problems through Biblical injunctions. The research methods used are historical, analytical and hermeneutical methodologies. Primary and secondary sources are used to gather information. The findings reveal that election malpractice triumphed in Nigeria as a result of poverty, illiteracy, greed, over- ambition of politicians, etc. It is recommended that Nigerian politicians follow the precepts of the scriptures by removing all forms 
of envy and selfish ambitions (James 3:16) for Nigeria's democracy to strife.