United Nations and Electoral Violence in Nigeria: Assessing International Observation Missions (2015–2024)

Abstract

Electoral violence remains one of the major challenges confronting democratic consolidation in Nigeria. Despite the increasing involvement of international observation missions, incidents of intimidation, ballot snatching, and physical attacks continue to undermine the credibility of electoral processes. This study examines the role of the United Nations and international election observation missions in mitigating electoral violence in Nigeria between 2015 and 2024. The research adopts a qualitative research design based on documentary analysis of secondary sources, including academic journals, election observation reports, policy documents, and institutional publications. The study also employs thematic analysis to examine patterns of electoral violence and the contributions of international monitoring bodies in promoting electoral transparency. Findings reveal that electoral violence in Nigeria tends to intensify during major election cycles due to intense political competition, weak institutional enforcement, and the mobilization of political thugs by competing parties. The study further finds that while international observation missions particularly those associated with the United Nations contribute to electoral transparency through technical assistance, monitoring, and democratic governance support, their influence is largely indirect and constrained by domestic political dynamics. The study concludes that sustainable reduction of electoral violence requires stronger domestic institutions, improved electoral governance, and enhanced collaboration between national authorities and international observation bodies.