When Tribalism and Politics Mix: The Nigerian Election Debacle
The 2023 presidential and national assembly elections in Nigeria have been a spectacle, to say the least. From alleged voter fraud to open acts of tribalism and bigotry at the polls, this election has been rife with reports of violence, intimidation and disruption.
With the results set to be announced today, many Nigerians are questioning the credibility of INEC’s results. Veteran singer Asa responded to reports of violence and tribalism that occurred in several areas of Lagos during the election by saying “Tribalism is disgusting” – a sentiment echoed by many Nigerians today.
“I arrived my polling station at 6h30 yesterday, voted at 13h45 peacefully. Saddened that people were attacked around Lagos! Tribalism is disgusting,” she shared on twitter
During the election on February 25, there were numerous allegations of thugs disrupting the process by destroying voting papers and even seizing people’s phones to prevent them from recording incidents of fraud or intimidation.
A video even surfaced on social media showing a man openly telling people to leave if they didn’t plan on voting All Progressives Congress (APC). While it is unclear if these allegations are true or false, they have served as an example of how deep-rooted tribalism is in Nigeria’s politics.
The 2023 Nigerian elections have also been marred by countless bigoted remarks online. Social media platforms like Twitter have seen an influx of comments insulting certain political parties, ethnicities and religions.
Even more concerning are reports that some voters were allegedly physically assaulted at various polling places including some celebrities such as Falz.
“FALZ and other voters have just been attacked and his phone has been stolen at Ikate Lekki. The ballot papers are being torn apart and scattered by the area boys there, they saw the support for Labour Party and couldn’t take it!! Emergency services needed right away!!! Update: Voters that live close by have gone back into their homes for safety, they are still seizing people’s phones.” Social media influencer, Pamilerin
As Nigerians and interested parties wait for INEC’s results today, it is important to reflect on what happened during these past few weeks leading up to the election day.
