The 2023 Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Nigeria, from the U.S. Department of State, highlights electoral hurdles faced that year. These challenges include irregularities during the elections. Issues such as voter suppression and intimidation were underscored in the report, reflecting concerns about the electoral process’s integrity.
The report acknowledges the elections’ alignment with voters’ will but highlights significant issues that tainted the electoral process.
Impartial observers reported that the results of the presidential, legislative, and state-level elections aligned with voters’ preferences. The report also noted instances of voter suppression, vote buying, campaigning at polling stations, compromised ballot secrecy, and violence.
The report mentioned incidents from the March 18 Lagos state election where APC supporters reportedly intimidated voters in Igbo-dominated areas. Videos circulating on social media showed APC supporters in Ojo threatening Igbo voters perceived to support Obi. Furthermore, in Eti-Osa, APC supporters reportedly assaulted journalists, hindered voting for non-Yoruba voters, damaged property, and obstructed voters in Amuwo-Odofin.. Despite the presence of police, there were no reported arrests or prosecutions of the alleged perpetrators.
Additionally, the report highlighted the ongoing lack of representation for women and marginalized groups in Nigerian politics, averaging only 6.7%. Significant obstacles to women’s political participation included religious, cultural, and economic barriers. ElectHER’s survey unveiled religious and cultural barriers, including double standards and media smear campaigns, targeting women politicians.
Media outlets faced criticism for perpetuating gender biases, stereotyping women politicians, and allegedly refusing to cover their campaigns. These actions were reportedly influenced by opposition officials and candidates.
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