MONETIZING DEMOCRACY: THE ENTRENCHMENT OF VOTE BUYING AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR ELECTORAL INTEGRITY IN NIGERIA’S FOURTH REPUBLIC

Abstract

This study examines how the increasing use of money in Nigerian politics has weakened democracy, with a focus on the problem of vote buying in the Fourth Republic. Vote buying refers to the exchange of money, food, or gifts for votes during elections, and it has become a serious threat to free and fair elections in Nigeria. The study relies on reports from election observers, newspaper publications, and scholarly articles to understand how and why vote buying has become widespread. The research shows that poverty, hunger, unemployment, and low political awareness are major reasons why many citizens accept money or gifts during elections. Politicians exploit people’s economic hardships to buy votes instead of winning through good ideas and credible plans. Weak law enforcement, lack of punishment for offenders, and mistrust in electoral institutions have also allowed the practice to persist. As a result, elections often fail to reflect the true will of the people and instead reveal the influence of money and political manipulation. Further findings show that vote buying has damaged Nigeria’s political system by promoting corrupt leaders, weakening democratic values, and reducing citizens’ confidence in the electoral process. It discourages honest participation, undermines accountability, and turns politics into a business venture rather than a platform for public service. To address the problem, the study recommends stronger enforcement of electoral laws, public education on the dangers of vote buying, and economic empowerment programmes to reduce poverty and dependence. It also calls for transparent campaign financing and greater civic responsibility among citizens.