Political Alienation and Electoral Participation in Nigeria’s Democratization Process

The study aimed to ascertain the reasons, nature and implication of voter abstention democratization process. The study posits that low voter turnout in Nigerian elections could be attributable to alienation and thus, sought to test the relationship between alienation and electoral participation focusing on the 2019 general elections. The study adopted the design. A sample of 1,200 respondents was chosen from the selected local government areas of the six zones using the stratified random sampling technique. The simple percentages and Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient statistical techniq of association intrinsic to the stated hypotheses. The findings from the study showed that the failure of elected political officers to fulfil electoral promises, electoral fraud

The factors that engender democratization and good governance in an enduring democracy are a robust electoral process and credible elections. An Election is a viable instrument for achieving adequate representation in government as well as the main instrument of political participation in democratic societies. There is however global evidence indicating low voter participation; from public affairs and a reticent approach towards political activity (International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, 1999Assistance, , 2004. With this scenario voter behaviour, a subset of political behaviour has become a foremost anced and developing democracies. In the past years, concerns have been raised that the continuous low turnout witnessed globally at all levels of elections, is an indication of International IDEA, 1999). In Nigeria, electoral participation has been on the decline. Since the Fourth Republic, the of 2019 recorded a scenario may endanger the legitimacy owever, the degree, form, and intensity of the citizens' involvement in electoral activities have been subjected to heated academic debates (Raciborski 2011). Scholars, attainment of a functioning and successful democracy would at least, require some level of involvement by the citizens to ensure the legitimacy of the political system Raciborski 2011). The consequent low levels of turnout by voters experienced worldwide and its implications for democratic sustenance have stimulated observations, comments, and investigations by commentators, political officials as well as s, 2004).
Studies conducted in Nigeria regarding the subject had centrally focused on apathy as the reason for low turnouts. Some of these studies include ones done by the Independent National Electoral . Without prejudice to the studies mentioned, this research contends that aside from apathy which connotes the voter disinterest in political or voting activities amongst others, other variables could be responsible indicates the voter's feeling of incapacity to influence political and electoral outcomes responsible for low voter turnout in African Journal of Politics and Administrative Studies (AJPAS) 16(1) (June, 2023):391-412 Available online also at https://www.ajpasebsu.org.ng/ DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajpas.v16i1.23 The Conceptual and Theoretical Discourse The term political alienation connotes the relative continuing sense of estrangement from or rejection of the prevailing political system conceived as the expectancy or probability held by the individual that his behaviour cannot determine the occurrence of the outcomes, or reinforcement, he seeks" (Seeman 1959: 784).
politically alienated person's restricts them. They feel that their interests are not respected and represented by political leaders (Glasberg& Shannon, 2010). The alienated are of the view that pol are incompetent, self-seeking and corrupt; thus, they are suspicious, hostile, distrustful and skeptical of these leaders. They believe that the political process as a whole is fraudulent; a betrayal of public trust and a ch Political alienation has thus been categorized into two broad groups by Olsen (1968) political incapability (powerlessness) and political discontentment (  ual and Theoretical Discourse of Political Alienation itical alienation connotes the relative continuing sense of estrangement from or political system by the individual citizen. Thus, "alienation can be conceived as the expectancy or probability held by the individual that his behaviour cannot determine the occurrence of the outcomes, or reinforcement, he seeks" (Seeman 1959: 784).
person'sdesire to vote, but their feeling of insignificance to the system restricts them. They feel that their interests are not respected and represented by political leaders (Glasberg& Shannon, 2010). The alienated are of the view that political leaders who hold offices seeking and corrupt; thus, they are suspicious, hostile, distrustful and of these leaders. They believe that the political process as a whole is fraudulent; a betrayal of public trust and a charade (Campbell et al, 1954).
been categorized into two broad groups by Olsen (1968) political incapability (powerlessness) and political discontentment (disapproval or disappointment). He posits that the first case is compelled by the environment upon the individual, while in the second; it is a voluntary choice by them. Finifter (1970) outlines five variants of political alienation. These are: : A feeling of incapability to affect political/electoral outcomes and governmental actions by the alienated.
Political meaninglessness: The perception by the individual that political/governmenta outcomes/decisions are unpredictably unclear.
: The perception that there is a clear and rampant deviation from intended to govern political and governmental outcomes.
: A rejection of widely held/shared societal norms and rules of behaviour : A display of lack of interest by the individual in political/electoral and activity because of the misdemeanour by the ruling political elites Political alienation as a theory, explains the voters' perception towards the political and electoral eory as postulated by scholars such as Seaman (1959) and Finifter (1970) states that alienation connotes a relative sense of estrangement and isolation from the ess arising from the individual's inability or incapacity to influence politic perceived feeling of powerlessness and incapacity to affect political and electoral decisions results in the frustration, discontentment, and isolation of the voter from the electoral P a g e | 393 Copy Right: © Author (s) itical alienation connotes the relative continuing sense of estrangement from or Thus, "alienation can be conceived as the expectancy or probability held by the individual that his behaviour cannot determine the occurrence of the outcomes, or reinforcement, he seeks" (Seeman 1959: 784). The desire to vote, but their feeling of insignificance to the system restricts them. They feel that their interests are not respected and represented by political leaders itical leaders who hold offices seeking and corrupt; thus, they are suspicious, hostile, distrustful and of these leaders. They believe that the political process as a whole is fraudulent; a been categorized into two broad groups by Olsen (1968)  perception towards the political and electoral such as Seaman (1959) andFinifter (1970) states that alienation connotes a relative sense of estrangement and isolation from the ess arising from the individual's inability or incapacity to influence political powerlessness and incapacity to affect political and electoral ter from the electoral African Journal of Politics and Administrative Studies (AJPAS) 16(1) (June, 2023):391-412 Available online also at https://www.  (Fawole, 2005;Glasgow & Alvarez 2005). Electoral participation has also been construed in terms of the activities undertak representatives and to support and/or influence the governance institutions at all levels (Braddy, 1999;Van Deth 2001). Participation in the political voting periods but also encompasses other important political activities that take election timeframe in which the citizens attempt to influence political actions and governmental policies to their advantage (Höglund, 2009). This view of citizens' participation in the political or electoral process is all-inclusive in t activities such as protests, boycotts and strikes. (Norris 2002a). Effective participation of the citizens in the electoral system is desired because it is a podium of interaction between the citizens and the political officials during electioneering and allows the citizens to take part in decision-making and governance. It is also essential for ensuring the credibility, legitimacy and stability of the political system.  (1959) andFinifter (1970) aver that the politically alienated individual desires to vote but is constrained from doing so by the prevailing environmental factors. The argument is that certain compelling factor from the political environment results in the incapability and discontentment of voters in Nigeria which compels them to abstain from the voting Political powerlessness, meaninglessness, normlessness, isolation, and disappointment torspreventing or constraining people from participating in the electoral process especially, voting during an election. Participating in an election would become hampered when people feel isolated, disappointed and or incapacitated to influence the Participation can only thrive where there is confidence in the electoral and the outcome of votes cast. The issue concerning the abstention of Nigerian voters from the electoral process and the factors responsible is the contribution and knowledge Research on public participation in politics by scholars in the discipline of political science ha focused conservatively on the participation of the electorates in the political system (Braddy, 1999;Van Deth 2001;Fawole, 2005;Glasgow & Alvarez 2005, Alechenu, 2012. Electoral participation can be viewed as citizens' legal acts in compliance with extant rules that allow the electorate to choose their representatives and to some extent, influence their actions in governance (Fawole, 2005;Glasgow & Alvarez 2005). Electoral participation has also been construed in terms of the activities undertaken directly or indirectly by the citizens to select their o support and/or influence the governance institutions at all levels (Braddy, 1999;Van Deth 2001). Participation in the political/electoral system is not only restricted to voting periods but also encompasses other important political activities that take election timeframe in which the citizens attempt to influence political actions and governmental policies to their advantage (Höglund, 2009). This view of citizens' participation in the political inclusive in that it is not only limited to voting but also other political activities such as protests, boycotts and strikes. (Norris 2002a). Effective participation of the citizens in the electoral system is desired because it is a podium of interaction between the tizens and the political officials during electioneering and allows the citizens to take part in making and governance. It is also essential for ensuring the credibility, legitimacy and stability of the political system. P a g e | 394 Copy Right: © Author (s) Seaman (1959) andFinifter (1970) aver that the politically alienated individual desires to vote but is constrained from doing so by the prevailing environmental factors. The argument is he political environment results in the incapability and discontentment of voters in Nigeria which compels them to abstain from the voting Political powerlessness, meaninglessness, normlessness, isolation, and disappointment people from participating Participating in an election would incapacitated to influence the thrive where there is confidence in the electoral The issue concerning the abstention of Nigerian e contribution and knowledge Research on public participation in politics by scholars in the discipline of political science has litical system (Braddy, 1999;Van Deth 2001;Fawole, 2005;Glasgow & Alvarez 2005, Alechenu, 2012. Electoral participation can be viewed as citizens' legal acts in compliance with extant rules that allow the to some extent, influence their actions in governance (Fawole, 2005;Glasgow & Alvarez 2005). Electoral participation has also been directly or indirectly by the citizens to select their o support and/or influence the governance institutions at all levels (Braddy, system is not only restricted to voting periods but also encompasses other important political activities that take place around the election timeframe in which the citizens attempt to influence political actions and governmental policies to their advantage (Höglund, 2009). This view of citizens' participation in the political hat it is not only limited to voting but also other political activities such as protests, boycotts and strikes. (Norris 2002a). Effective participation of the citizens in the electoral system is desired because it is a podium of interaction between the tizens and the political officials during electioneering and allows the citizens to take part in making and governance. It is also essential for ensuring the credibility, legitimacy and  Available online also at https://www.ajpasebsu.org.ng/ DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajpas.v16i1.23 The Argument Several studies on voter abstention had concentrated on apathy as the major reason for low turnout. These include the ones conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission The present study is not on apathy, and thus, not necessary to discourse above in detail. However, the elections cannot be classified under apathy to suggest that they all lack interest and knowledge of political activities. The author thus, introduced the variable of alienation to argue that Nigerian voters' are not majorly apathetic to the electoral system but could be disenchanted and frustrated with the system and its environment that constrained them from participation in voting activities.
Therefore, alienation is projected as responsible for the abstention process. The study sought to test the relationship between the mentioned variables quantitative research methodology. The variables African Journal of Politics and Administrative Studies (AJPAS) Several studies on voter abstention had concentrated on apathy as the major reason for low The present study is not on apathy, and thus, not necessary to discourse on However, the study contends that the majority of nonelections cannot be classified under apathy to suggest that they all lack interest and knowledge of political activities. The author thus, introduced the variable of alienation to argue that Nigerian e not majorly apathetic to the electoral system but could be disenchanted and frustrated with the system and its environment that constrained them from participation in voting activities.
, alienation is projected as responsible for the abstention of voters from the electoral sought to test the relationship between the mentioned variables research methodology. The variables -the bad governance, P a g e | 396 Several studies on voter abstention had concentrated on apathy as the major reason for low turnout. These include the ones conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission elections cannot be classified under apathy to suggest that they all lack interest and knowledge of political activities. The author thus, introduced the variable of alienation to argue that Nigerian e not majorly apathetic to the electoral system but could be disenchanted and frustrated with the system and its environment that constrained them from participation in voting activities.
of voters from the electoral sought to test the relationship between the mentioned variables using Available online also at https://www.ajpasebsu.org.ng/ DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajpas.v16i1.23 electoral fraud and electoral violence were tested through stati establish a nexus or otherwise with alienation.Political alienation is the rejection of the prevailing political system by the individual citizen (Glasberg& Shannon, 2010). The politically alienated person desires to vote but is constrained not to do so by political and environmental variables.
Thus, an individual who rejects the prevailing political and electoral participate in it. This action is not that of an apathetic citizen but an alienated one. The investigation of alienation as Nigerian electoral process is a novel contribution to academic literature. The outcome study would thus provide a new perspective

Stating the Problematic of Voter Abstention
Democracy requires the psychological involvement and active participation of people in the electoral process since societal goals are determined and executed through discussions, popular opinion, and commitment to the political system. Thus, citizens' engagement in the democratic process gives it legitimacy and direction (Dalton, 2002). Voter abstention is already a global phenomenon. It has become a major problem in developed and developing democracies (International IDEA 1999;2006). The various elections in Nigeria, especially in the Fourth Republic, have witnessed a gradual but steady decline in turnout that has negatively impacted the democratization process (Agu, Okeke&Idike, 2013 may erode the credibility of elections, legitimacy hallmarks of democracy. Low voter turnout trends in Nigeria call for concern because it indicates a country's levels of democratic development.

Research Questions
The research seeks to unravel the following iss 1. What is the impact of unfulfilled campaign promises 2. What is the impact of electoral corruption on voter abstention?
3. What is the impact of electoral violence on voter abstention? electoral fraud and electoral violence were tested through statistical and qualitative analysis to establish a nexus or otherwise with alienation.Political alienation is the rejection of the prevailing political system by the individual citizen (Glasberg& Shannon, 2010). The politically alienated but is constrained not to do so by political and environmental variables.
Thus, an individual who rejects the prevailing political and electoral system . This action is not that of an apathetic citizen (indifference and but an alienated one. The investigation of alienation as afactor of voters Nigerian electoral process is a novel contribution to academic literature. The outcome provide a new perspective on academics.

Stating the Problematic of Voter Abstention
Democracy requires the psychological involvement and active participation of people in the electoral process since societal goals are determined and executed through discussions, popular mitment to the political system. Thus, citizens' engagement in the democratic process gives it legitimacy and direction (Dalton, 2002). Voter abstention is already a global phenomenon. It has become a major problem in developed and developing democracies International IDEA 1999;2006). The various elections in Nigeria, especially in the Fourth Republic, have witnessed a gradual but steady decline in turnout that has negatively impacted the democratization process (Agu, Okeke&Idike, 2013). For example, the 1999 general elections  (Dalton, 2002). Voter abstention is already a global phenomenon. It has become a major problem in developed and developing democracies International IDEA 1999;2006). The various elections in Nigeria, especially in the Fourth Republic, have witnessed a gradual but steady decline in turnout that has negatively impacted the 1999 general elections recorded a 52.3% turnout of registered voters. In 2003, the turnout was 69.1%; 58% in 2007; These declining turnouts , and popular representation, which are the hallmarks of democracy. Low voter turnout trends in Nigeria call for concern because it indicates on voter abstention?
Available online also at https://www.ajpasebsu.org.ng/ DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajpas.v16i1.23 Following the research questions, t (i) Find out the reason(s) why many eligible voters do not vote in elections in Nigeria; (ii) Ascertain the nature of abstention concerning voting activities and determine if alienation plays a role; (iii) Examine the implication of low voter tur Statistical Hypotheses (Ho) 1. There is no relationship between abstention.

There is no relationship between
3. There is no relationship between

Methodology
The study adopted the ex- The sample size of one thousand two hundred (1200) respondents was arrived at by adopting the formula of Taro Yamane which population (Yamane, 1967  The sample size of one thousand two hundred (1200) respondents was arrived at by adopting the of Taro Yamane which he developed in 1967 to calculate sample sizes from a given population (Yamane, 1967). The adoption of a 5% error margin and a 95% level of confidence, in calculating the population of one million, four hundred and ninety-sev seven (1, 497, 157) yielded a sample size of 400. To account for possible attrition, reduce the level of error, and increase sample representativeness, and the confidence level, the number of subjects was increased to 1,200 (that is 400 × 3. This action became imperative since the sample of 400 represents the minimum standard sample required for the study to produce a 95% confidence level in line with Yamane's formula. The questionnaire ended question sets was utilized for the study. The stratified random sampling technique was employed to select three zones from the six geopolitical zones; two The sample size of one thousand two hundred (1200) respondents was arrived at by adopting the he developed in 1967 to calculate sample sizes from a given population (Yamane, 1967). The adoption of a 5% error margin and a 95% level of confidence, seven thousand, one seven (1, 497, 157) yielded a sample size of 400. To account for possible increase sample representativeness, and the confidence 200 (that is 400 × 3. This action became imperative since the sample of 400 represents the minimum standard sample required for the study to produce a 95% confidence level in line with Yamane's formula. The questionnaire The stratified random sampling technique was employed to select three zones from the six geopolitical zones; two Available online also at https://www.   In Tables 2 and 3

Data collection and analysis
For this study, a total of one thousand two hundr of which one thousand, and sixty (1060)  Primary data formed the nuclei of data collection for analysis and contingency tables were the mode of data presentation. Simple percentages and Pearson's Product Moment Correlation Coefficient were used to analyze the generated quantitative data. The simple percentage technique helped to ascertain the data percentages for easy analysis while Pearson's Correlation

Data collection and analysis
For this study, a total of one thousand two hundred (1200) questionnaires were administered, out of which one thousand, and sixty (1060) were completed and returned by the respondents. Out of the 1060 respondents, the majority of them were males representing 57.1% while the females he sample. The age distribution shows that 50% of the respondents were 25 years; 38.2% were 26-40 years old and 11.8% were 41 years and above. This shows that the majority of the respondents who took part in the study constitute the youthful a virile age necessary for political participation. Also, 26% of the sampled respondents were married, 69.3% were single, and 3.3% of the respondents were divorced while 1.41% belongs to the "others" category. Moreover, 0.94% of the respondents were primary school certificate primary certificate holders; 34.4% were OND/NCE certificate holders graduate certificate holders. This distribution shows that the majority of the respondents had basic education and thus were equipped to make informed responses useful to the study. Furthermore, 22.2% of the respondents belonged to the paid employment cadre; 32.5% employed while 45.3% were unemployed. Finally, 60.4% of the respondents were slims; 7.07% belonged to African Traditional Religion (ATR) of which one thousand, and sixty (1060) were completed and returned by the respondents. Out of the 1060 respondents, the majority of them were males representing 57.1% while the females he sample. The age distribution shows that 50% of the respondents were 11.8% were 41 years and above. This shows that the majority of the respondents who took part in the study constitute the youthful and virile age necessary for political participation. Also, 26% of the sampled respondents were married, 69.3% were single, and 3.3% of the respondents were divorced while 1.41% belongs to ry school certificate primary certificate holders; 34.4% were OND/NCE certificate holders graduate certificate holders. This distribution shows that the majority of the ere equipped to make informed responses useful to the study. Furthermore, 22.2% of the respondents belonged to the paid employment cadre; 32.5% employed while 45.3% were unemployed. Finally, 60.4% of the respondents were slims; 7.07% belonged to African Traditional Religion (ATR) and African Journal of Politics and Administrative Studies (AJPAS) 16(1) (June, 2023):  Available online also at https://www.ajpasebsu.org.ng/ DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajpas.v16i1.23 0.94% belonged to "other" religion. Thus, the distribution indicates that the respondents cut across the religious divide.

Results
StatisticalHypothesis 1:There is no governance and voters' abstention

StatisticalHypothesis 1
The results show a statistically significant relationship between the two variables ( Research Hypothesis 2:There is no abstention.

Research Hypothesis 3
There exists a statistically significant relationship between the two variables( Thus, as the level of electoral violence increases, the citizens become political system leading to a low

Interpretation of StatisticalHypothesis
The research result shows that a strong significant relationship campaign promises/bad governance and voters' abstention. The relationship is positive which means that the political officials' low level of governance is responsible for the alienation of citizens from the political system; leading to the low elections in Nigeria. The result shows that a majority of the respondents rate the electoral promises by political officials as unsatisfactory. Th have failed to keep to electoral promises hence; electoral promises are just propaganda meant to induce voters to vote for them during elections. Consequently, many Nigerians decide not to participate in the electoral process because they believe that the political office has by political elites and godfathers; therefore, electoral promises would not be fulfilled. They opined that the failure of political officials to keep to electoral promises they would not vote on Election Day. Therefore, unfulfilled campaign promises/bad governance by political officials have negative effects on voter participation in the electoral process of Nigeria.

Interpretation of Statistical Hypothesis
The result shows that there is a weak significant relationship between electoral fraud and voter abstention. The relationship is positive, which means that the political officials' political parties and INEC officials' negative practice of manipulating election results alienation from the political system; thus, leading to a low elections in Nigeria.
African Journal of Politics and Administrative Studies (AJPAS) . The direction of the relationship is positive. There is a very strong positive relationship electoral violence and voters' abstention. This means that the variables tend to increase together. The increase in one variable affects the other variable. Consequently, the increase in ence leads to a corresponding increase in voters' abstention during elections. There electoral violence and voters' abstention during the electoral process.
hus, as the level of electoral violence increases, the citizens become more alienated from the low-level turnout of eligible voters during elections in Nigeria.

Hypothesis1
The research result shows that a strong significant relationship exists between u campaign promises/bad governance and voters' abstention. The relationship is positive which means that the political officials' low level of governance is responsible for the alienation of citizens from the political system; leading to the low-level turnout of eligible voters during The result shows that a majority of the respondents rate the electoral promises by political officials as unsatisfactory. Thatmeans that the to electoral promises hence; electoral promises are just propaganda meant to induce voters to vote for them during elections. Consequently, many Nigerians decide not to participate in the electoral process because they believe that the political office has by political elites and godfathers; therefore, electoral promises would not be fulfilled. They the failure of political officials to keep to electoral promises is they would not vote on Election Day. Therefore, the outcome of the research results show unfulfilled campaign promises/bad governance by political officials have negative effects on voter participation in the electoral process of Nigeria.

Hypothesis 2
ows that there is a weak significant relationship between electoral fraud and voter abstention. The relationship is positive, which means that the political officials' political parties and INEC officials' negative practice of manipulating election results is responsible for citizens alienation from the political system; thus, leading to a low-level turnout of eligible voters during The result shows that a majority of the respondents rate the fulfilment of the political officials to electoral promises hence; electoral promises are just propaganda meant to induce voters to vote for them during elections. Consequently, many Nigerians decide not to participate in the electoral process because they believe that the political office has been hijacked by political elites and godfathers; therefore, electoral promises would not be fulfilled. They is one of the reasons research results shows that unfulfilled campaign promises/bad governance by political officials have negative effects on ows that there is a weak significant relationship between electoral fraud and voter abstention. The relationship is positive, which means that the political officials' political parties is responsible for citizens' level turnout of eligible voters during Available online also at https://www.ajpasebsu.org.ng/ DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajpas.v16i1.23 The research result shows that a majority of the respondents are of the view that many Nigerians do not vote during elections because they feel that their votes will not count due to manipulation by electoral and political officials. They opined that they do not have confidence conduct credible elections in Nigeria and that votes cast in pre nothing because of fraud and manipulation, it is thus, a waste of time to go out and vote.
Therefore, the outcome of the on voter participation in the electoral

Interpretation of Statistical Hypothesis
The result shows that there is a strong significant relationship between electoral violence and voter abstention. The relationship is positive, which means that the high incidences of electora violence are responsible for citizens' alienation from the political system; thus, leading to a low The findings of the study are summarized thus: 1. Voter abstention in the Nigerian electoral system is mainly due to alienation.  The research result shows that a majority of the respondents are of the view that many Nigerians t vote during elections because they feel that their votes will not count due to manipulation by electoral and political officials. They opined that they do not have confidence conduct credible elections in Nigeria and that votes cast in previous elections amounted to nothing because of fraud and manipulation, it is thus, a waste of time to go out and vote.

Voter alienation in the
the results shows that electoral corruption/fraud ha on voter participation in the electoral process in Nigeria.

Hypothesis 3
The result shows that there is a strong significant relationship between electoral violence and voter abstention. The relationship is positive, which means that the high incidences of electora violence are responsible for citizens' alienation from the political system; thus, leading to a low level turnout of eligible voters during elections in Nigeria.The research result shows that a majority of the respondents opined that the electoral process in Nigeria is enmeshed in violence and insecurity, thus, it obstructs the free and fair electoral process and scares sof lives during elections. Consequently, they affirmed Nigerians who want to vote during elections decide not to for fear of violence. They s one of the reasons registered voters may decide not to vote on Election Day. Therefore, the outcome of research results shows that electoral violence has negative e on voter participation in the electoral process in Nigeria.
The findings of the study are summarized thus: Voter abstention in the Nigerian electoral system is mainly due to alienation.
Voter alienation in the Nigerian electoral process is a factor of bad governance.
The failure of elected political officers to fulfil electoral promises and work for the interest of the citizenry concerning policy formulation and implementation is responsible for voter alienation in Nigeria.
Voter alienation is a factor of electoral fraud perpetrated by political officials, parties, and INEC officials, which undermines the votes cast by the Nigerian electorates during P a g e | 403 Copy Right: © Author (s) The research result shows that a majority of the respondents are of the view that many Nigerians t vote during elections because they feel that their votes will not count due to manipulation by electoral and political officials. They opined that they do not have confidence in the INEC to vious elections amounted to nothing because of fraud and manipulation, it is thus, a waste of time to go out and vote. that electoral corruption/fraud has negative effects The result shows that there is a strong significant relationship between electoral violence and voter abstention. The relationship is positive, which means that the high incidences of electoral violence are responsible for citizens' alienation from the political system; thus, leading to a lowlevel turnout of eligible voters during elections in Nigeria.The research result shows that a s in Nigeria is enmeshed in violence s people away from affirmed that many ring elections decide not to for fear of violence. They opined that s one of the reasons registered voters may decide not to vote on Election that electoral violence has negative effects Voter abstention in the Nigerian electoral system is mainly due to alienation. oral process is a factor of bad governance. Data from the study show that alienation is the result of fraudulent electoral practices in th example, 71.2% of the respondents stated that they lack confidence in the INEC to conduct free and fair elections in Nigeria; 76.9% opined that they will not continue to vote if they feel that their votes will not count while 92.4% stated that many Nigerians do not vote because they believe their votes will not count due to manipulation and fraud by political candidates, political parties and electoral officials.

Electoral violence is responsible for voter alienation fr
The results show that a majority of the respondents stated that electoral violence is responsible for the alienation of voters and low turnout during elections. For instance, African Journal of Politics and Administrative Studies (AJPAS) Electoral violence as perpetrated by political opponents and parties during elections affects electoral participation and therefore, is responsible for voter alienation in the Nigerian political system.
The electoral process (registration and voting) in the Nigerian political system is cumbersome and thus, discourages many citizens from registering for elections as well as Findings from the study revealed that the data validate the research questions . The findings are in two categories-major and supporting findings.
Unfulfilled promises and bad governance by political officials are responsible for the alienation of voters and low turnout during elections in Nigeria.
he results show that a majority of the respondents are of the view that voter alienation is the of the failure of political officials to fulfil electoral promises and deliver good governance. majority of the respondents, that is 92.5% rate the fulfilment promises by political officials as unsatisfactory; 90.1% are of the view that political offices have been hijacked by political godfathers and as a result, electoral promises are not fulfilled; furthermore, 93.4% of the respondents are of the view that the political officials do not care about the citizens' interest while 93.4% of the respondents state that many eligible voters vote during elections in Nigeria in reaction to bad governance by political officials.
2. Electoral fraud and corruption by political officials, political parties and electoral officials ar responsible for the alienation of voters from the political system and low turnout during show that the majority of the respondents are of the view that voter alienation is the result of fraudulent electoral practices in the Nigerian political system. For example, 71.2% of the respondents stated that they lack confidence in the INEC to conduct free and fair elections in Nigeria; 76.9% opined that they will not continue to vote if they feel that hile 92.4% stated that many Nigerians do not vote because they believe their votes will not count due to manipulation and fraud by political candidates, political 3. Electoral violence is responsible for voter alienation from the political process of Nigeria.
he results show that a majority of the respondents stated that electoral violence is responsible and low turnout during elections. For instance, 2. Electoral fraud and corruption by political officials, political parties and electoral officials are responsible for the alienation of voters from the political system and low turnout during majority of the respondents are of the view that voter e Nigerian political system. For example, 71.2% of the respondents stated that they lack confidence in the INEC to conduct free and fair elections in Nigeria; 76.9% opined that they will not continue to vote if they feel that hile 92.4% stated that many Nigerians do not vote because they believe their votes will not count due to manipulation and fraud by political candidates, political om the political process of Nigeria.
he results show that a majority of the respondents stated that electoral violence is responsible and low turnout during elections. For instance, the majority of the Available online also at https://www.ajpasebsu.org.ng/ DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajpas.v16i1.23 respondents, that is 94.8% are of the view that the registration and voting process in Nigeria is largely insecure and prone to violence; 94.3% opined that many eligible voters do not vote during elections in Nigeria because of the fear of violence while 83% stated that if they e the outbreak of violence in an election, they will not go out to cast their votes.  8% are of the view that the registration and voting process in Nigeria is largely insecure and prone to violence; 94.3% opined that many eligible voters do not vote during elections in Nigeria because of the fear of violence while 83% stated that if they e the outbreak of violence in an election, they will not go out to cast their votes.

Supporting
1. Cumbersome electoral process (registration and voting) is responsible for the alienation of voters and low turnout during elections in Nigeria.
results show that the majority of the respondents stated that the very stressful and rigorous registration and voting processes in Nigeria discourage eligible voters from voting during elections. For example, the majority of the respondents, that is, 87.3%, state that the registration and voting processes in Nigeria are very cumbersome and thus can discourage voters from in the elections. They opined that the unusually long hours spent in the queue either during voter registration or voting are very stressful and discouraging.
From the findings of the study, the majority of the respondents showed interest in the political They are therefore willing to cast their votes during elections but vironmental factors in the political system which caused them to become alienated from the political and electoral process. These factors represent the major and supporting findings of the study already discussed above. To buttress the above point, ority of the respondents that is, 85.4% opined that elections are important in Nigeria; 72.2% can help to pick the right leaders in Nigeria; 60.4% stated that they registered for the 2019 general elections; a majority of the respondents said they are eager and willing to vote during elections only if the election is free and fair while 83% were not mobilized to register for the 2019 general elections but did so willingly and of their own accord. It can thus he low turnout of eligible voters in the Nigerian electoral process is the result political alienation of voters by inhibitive factors in the Nigerian political process. With these findings, the research objectives (finding out the reason(s) why e voters do not vote in elections as well as ascertaining the nature of abstention in the Nigerian political system) outlined for the study have been achieved. P a g e | 405 Copy Right: © Author (s) 8% are of the view that the registration and voting process in Nigeria is largely insecure and prone to violence; 94.3% opined that many eligible voters do not vote during elections in Nigeria because of the fear of violence while 83% stated that if they envisage the outbreak of violence in an election, they will not go out to cast their votes.
1. Cumbersome electoral process (registration and voting) is responsible for the alienation of results show that the majority of the respondents stated that the very stressful and rigorous registration and voting processes in Nigeria discourage eligible voters from voting during 87.3%, state that the registration and voting processes in Nigeria are very cumbersome and thus can discourage voters from in the elections. They opined that the unusually long hours spent in the queue either majority of the respondents showed interest in the political They are therefore willing to cast their votes during elections but are vironmental factors in the political system which caused them to become alienated from the political and electoral process. These factors represent the major and supporting findings of the study already discussed above. To buttress the above point, the ority of the respondents that is, 85.4% opined that elections are important in Nigeria; 72.2% can help to pick the right leaders in Nigeria; 60.4% stated that they respondents said they are eager and willing to vote during elections only if the election is free and fair while 83% were not mobilized to register for the 2019 general elections but did so willingly and of their own accord. It can thus he low turnout of eligible voters in the Nigerian electoral process is the result by inhibitive factors in the Nigerian political process. With these findings, the research objectives (finding out the reason(s) why eligible the nature of abstention in the Nigerian Available online also at https://www.ajpasebsu.org.ng/ DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajpas.v16i1.23

Contribution to Knowledge Production
Generally, the findings of the study epitomize contr the variables of political alienation electoral fraud are significant Specifically, the following are the major contributions of the study to academic knowledge.
1. The empirical study of political alienation using survey analysis is novel in Nigeria (to the best of my knowledge).

The study revealed that
Nigerian electoral process. Until now, studies have focused on political apathy as the main cause of low voter turnout in Nigeria.

Conclusion and Recommendations
Credible elections are relevant in achieving an enduring democracy and democratization process, and in essence, good governance. Electoral participation serves as the instrument for the attainment of a viable and representative government in democratic societies. Voting then becomes the contact linkage between the representatives and the citizenry and provides the foundation for discussions, deliberations, and citizens' engagement in the operation of the political system. Consequently, if turnout declines, the primary linkage between the political system may become weakened, threaten Citizens' participation in the process of governance is necessary to accomplish an equitable and civilized society. These tenets will not be achi stay away from voting during elections. This situation calls for concern, especially as it is worsening.
The need for this study becomes imperative since the level or degree of voter turnout serves as a parameter for measuring popular will, credibility, and legitimacy of elected officials. Besides, they are vital to political socialization and serve as the bedrock for democratic stability. It is hoped that the relevant institutions and stakeholders would study and the recommendations hereafter to positively address the voter alienation challenge.

Contribution to Knowledge Production
Generally, the findings of the study epitomize contribution to existing academic knowledge as the variables of political alienation-unfulfilled campaign promises, electoral violence, and determinants of low voter turnout in Nigerian elections. e the major contributions of the study to academic knowledge.
. The empirical study of political alienation using surveys and especially, quantitative data for analysis is novel in Nigeria (to the best of my knowledge). .
The study revealed that political alienation is a determinant of voter abstention in the Nigerian electoral process. Until now, studies have focused on political apathy as the main cause of low voter turnout in Nigeria.

Conclusion and Recommendations
ant in achieving an enduring democracy and democratization process, and in essence, good governance. Electoral participation serves as the instrument for the attainment of a viable and representative government in democratic societies. Voting then the contact linkage between the representatives and the citizenry and provides the foundation for discussions, deliberations, and citizens' engagement in the operation of the political system. Consequently, if turnout declines, the primary linkage between the political system may become weakened, threatening the legitimacy of the democratic system.
Citizens' participation in the process of governance is necessary to accomplish an equitable and civilized society. These tenets will not be achieved if a majority of eligible voters continue to stay away from voting during elections. This situation calls for concern, especially as it is The need for this study becomes imperative since the level or degree of voter turnout serves as a rameter for measuring popular will, credibility, and legitimacy of elected officials. Besides, they are vital to political socialization and serve as the bedrock for democratic stability. It is hoped that the relevant institutions and stakeholders would take cognizance of the findings of the study and the recommendations hereafter to positively address the voter alienation challenge. Citizens' participation in the process of governance is necessary to accomplish an equitable and eved if a majority of eligible voters continue to stay away from voting during elections. This situation calls for concern, especially as it is The need for this study becomes imperative since the level or degree of voter turnout serves as a rameter for measuring popular will, credibility, and legitimacy of elected officials. Besides, they are vital to political socialization and serve as the bedrock for democratic stability. It is take cognizance of the findings of the study and the recommendations hereafter to positively address the voter alienation challenge. with the responsibility of forestalling violence an electoral regulations that often lead to violence during elections. Also, adequate intelligence and monitoring teams should be assigned to cover all election centres as to monitor the activities of security personnel at various polling centres.
4. The federal and state governments should put up modalities to lighten the often stressful registration and voting processes to encourage more participation in the electoral process. These  Questionnaire: Are you of the opinion that many people of voting age want to vote but do not because they believe that their vote will not count due to manipulation (fraud) by  .000 1060 1060 **. Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed).