POLITICAL PARTIES AND DEMOCRATIC CONSOLIDATION IN NIGERIA:GOMBE STATE EXPERIENCE (2019-2023)

This study examines the role of political parties in democratic consolidation in Nigeria, with a specific focus on Gombe State from 2019 to 2023. The research explores three key areas: internal democracy within political parties, their role in governance and policy advocacy, and the challenges they face in promoting democracy. The study is anchored on the Elite Theory, Institutional Theory, and Social Contract Theory, which provide a theoretical framework for understanding party politics and governance dynamics. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 165 respondents and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings reveal that while political parties in Gombe State contribute to governance and policy advocacy, their effectiveness is hindered by intra-party conflicts, godfatherism, financial constraints, and weak internal democracy. Additionally, electoral malpractices and political violence undermine the democratic process. The study concludes that strengthening internal democracy, enhancing electoral integrity, and increasing political education are essential for sustainable democratic consolidation. It recommends that political parties institutionalize democratic practices, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) enforces stricter electoral regulations, and civic engagement is improved. Further research is suggested on comparative political party dynamics, the impact of social media on political participation, and the role of women and youth in party politics.