GODFATHERISM AND POLITICAL VIOLENCE IN ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

GODFATHERISM AND POLITICAL VIOLENCE IN ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

Godfatherism and political violence has become the dominant feature characterizing contemporary politics in Nigeria. Their role in the political system has impacted negatively on the politics of the country, and constitutes a potential threat to the country’s nascent democracy, development and security. Literature has highlighted the implications of godfatherism and political violence such as loss of life and properties, corruption, embezzlement of public funds, falsification of election results, stagnant development and political insecurity. However, this study examined the linkage between godfatherism and political violence and its implication on security and development in Anambra state, Nigeria.

The study adopted quantitative and qualitative research techniques. The quantitative method involved the use of closed and open-ended questionnaire, while the qualitative method employed the use of unstructured interview. A total number of 120 questionnaires were administered out of which only 105 were returned. The study adopted purposive sampling technique to select respondents in the study area which yielded four (4) communities; Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi and Ozubulu. Frequency distribution tables and simple percentage method were used to analyze the quantitative data, while explanatory research technique was utilized for the qualitative data.

The findings of the study indicated that there is a linkage between godfatherism and political violence as a result of partisan interest of these political godfathers which leads to interference within the political process in Anambra state. Furthermore, the study revealed that godfatherism and political violence have undermined the rule of law and due process which are vital for democratic sustenance in Anambra state and Nigeria in general. The implication is that there is lack of trust in the electoral process, misappropriation of public funds by those in government and inability to deliver the dividends of democracy to the citizens. The findings also revealed that the implications of political violence on security and development are characterized by loss of lives and properties, illegal arms proliferation, threats to state institutions and stagnant development of the state.

In conclusion, there is a need for a more proactive approach by various political stakeholders in addressing the challenges of godfatherism and political violence in Anambra state. Policy options such as; promotion of free and fair elections, promotion of non-violent activities, litigation against indicted political godfathers, sensitization of political stakeholders, good governance practice, eradication of bribery and corruption, will go a long way in addressing the challenge of godfatherism and political violence in Anambra state and Nigeria as a whole.

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