ENTHROMENT OF DEMOCRACY A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE 2011 NIGERIA PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION AND 2008 UNITED STATES OF AMERICAN PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

Abstract

This study comparatively examines the Nigerian presidential elections of 2007 and 2011 alongside the United States presidential election of 2008 with emphasis on electoral processes, democratic practices, institutional performance, and political party systems. The study observes that while the United States operates a transparent and ideology-driven electoral system supported by strong democratic institutions and credible transition processes, Nigeria’s electoral process has been characterized by electoral violence, rigging, political manipulation, weak institutions, ethnic sentiments, and lack of ideological distinction among political parties. The paper identifies important lessons from the 2008 U.S. election for Nigeria, including the need for transparent electoral processes, free and fair elections, credible leadership selection, and smooth transfer of power. It further notes that the 2011 Nigerian elections recorded significant improvements compared to the widely criticized 2007 elections, particularly in voter registration, result collation, and institutional independence. The study concludes that democratic consolidation in Nigeria depends on electoral reforms, institutional strengthening, political accountability, and adherence to democratic principles capable of ensuring credible elections and sustainable national development.