ELECTORAL VIOLENCE IN NIGERIA; EXPLORING THE CAUSES, CONSEQUENCES AND COPING STRATEGIES IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS AND ITS ENVIRONS 2019 – 2023

ABSTRACT This study examines the phenomenon of electoral violence in Bauchi Metropolis and its environsbetween 2019 and 2023, with particular emphasis on its causes, consequences, andcopingstrategies. Using a mixed-methods approach that combined field surveys, structured interviews, and secondary data analysis, the research provides insights into the socio-political dynamicsthat underpin electoral violence in the study area. The findings reveal that electoral violenceisprimarily driven by factors such as political thuggery, poverty, unemployment, the manipulationof ethnic and religious identities, and weak institutional frameworks for electoral management. The study further establishes that electoral violence has far-reaching consequences, includingthe erosion of political stability, disruption of socio-economic activities, displacement of residents, destruction of property, and declining public trust in democratic processes. Communities and stakeholders, however, have developed coping strategies, rangingfromreliance on security forces and the use of traditional and religious leaders in peacebuildingtothe establishment of civic education initiatives aimed at discouraging violence. Despite theseef orts, the persistence of violence underscores the need for a more holistic approach to electoral governance in Nigeria. The study concludes that addressing electoral violence inBauchi requires strengthening institutional capacities, promoting inclusive political participation, tackling socio-economic inequalities, and fostering collaboration between communities, civil society, and state actors. This research contributes to the broader discourse on democraticconsolidation in Nigeria and of ers policy recommendations for curbing electoral violenceinfuture elections.