GRASSROOTS DEMOCRACY AND POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN JERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT

ABSTRACT The study concludes that while formal structures for grassroots democracy exist in Jere L.G., actual political participation is constrained by interlocking structural (poverty, insecurity), institutional (limited transparency, patronage), and socio-cultural (gender norms, deference to traditional authorities) factors. Strengthening grassroots democracy in Jere requires addressing these barriers simultaneously: improving access to information and civic education, making participation economically feasible, enhancing security for civic activities, and designing interventions that deliberately empower underrepresented groups especially women and youth. Political participation helps in identifying the real needs of the people. Leaders who listen to their communities are better informed about the challenges residents face. This leads to more effective policies and development programs that directly improve the standard of living in Jere Local Government. Grassroots democracy empowers marginalized groups, such as women and youth, by giving them platforms to contribute to governance. This encourages social inclusion and helps build a more balanced and equitable society.