Electoral Rigging and Youth Participation in Kaduna State (a Study of Kaduna North Local Government 2020-2023)

Student: Khalil Ibrahim Adamu (Project, 2025)
Department of Political Science
Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Kaduna State

Abstract

This study examines the impact of electoral rigging on youth participation in politics, with a focus on Kaduna North Local Government Area from 2015 to 2021. Adopting the Rational Choice Theory as a framework, the research explores the dynamics that deter or encourage youth involvement in the political process. A mixed-method approach was employed, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data collected through questionnaires and interviews. Findings reveal that perceptions of electoral rigging significantly reduce youth political engagement, fostering apathy and mistrust in the electoral system. The study identifies a lack of transparency, weak enforcement of electoral laws, and insufficient civic education as major contributing factors to this trend. Recommendations include strengthening electoral laws, enhancing civic education, and fostering trust in electoral institutions to encourage greater youth participation in politics. This research highlights the critical role of a transparent and credible electoral process in sustaining democracy and youth engagement.

Keywords
electoral rigging youth participation Kaduna North democracy voter apathy political engagement election reform civic education transparency Nigeria.
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