ENHANCING POSITIVE CHANGES IN ELECTORAL PROCESSES IN NIGERIA THROUGH ADULT EDUCATION

Abstract

This paper focused on issues relating to electoral process in Nigeria and the concerns of adult education in enhancing positive changes into Nigeria electoral process, using Ekiti State as a case study. The paper traced the history and conduct of electoral process in Nigeria, from post-independence period till present day. The paper highlighted some identified issues in the electioneering process in Nigeria, including the conduct of INEC, election malpractices, corruption and fraud, violence, insecurity and other vices. The paper also discussed the concept of adult education and what it tends to achieve in the issue of electoral process in Nigeria, particularly in  Ekiti State. It highlighted and discusses the ways by which adult education will tackle the challenges and enhanced positive changes in the democratic and electoral process, by providing educational opportunity for all citizens, organising adult education for the disadvantaged groups, creating awareness and sensitisation for citizens, organising training and workshop for the party members and the electorates and engaging the stakeholders on peace and conflict management education. The paper therefore recommends that the Governments at all levels and all stakeholders should establish adult centers in towns and villages to educate people on the need to engage in free and fair elections. They should also provide adequate security to safeguard elections and enhanced positive
changes in the electoral process in the country. Lastly, there should be adequate education, sensitisation, trainings and workshops for citizens on the conduct of electoral process to enhance free and fair election.