THE EFFECTS OF POLITICAL THUGGERY ON DEMOCRATIC CONSOLIDATION IN GOMBE STATE

Abstract

Political thuggery has become a feature of Nigeria’s democratic experience. The preponderance of thuggery, violence, killings and electoral malpractices are endemic characteristics of contemporary political dispensation in Gombe State. The concerns of this paper were to examine the extent of political thuggery in Gombe State, including its prevalence, forms, and actors involved;to analyze its impacts on democratic institutions and processes, focusing on electoral integrity, citizen participation, and political stability; and to explore the underlying factors contributing to its persistence and potential strategies for mitigating its negative effects on democratic consolidation. The research used documentary sources of data and the elite theory as its theoretical framework. The research findings revealed a significant incidence of political thuggery in Gombe State, with reports of violence, intimidation, and coercion during electoral processes and political events; Politicalthuggery has undermined the integrity of electionsin Gombe State, leading to voter suppression, electoral fraud, and disenfranchisement of citizens, thereby compromising the democratic process and that the presence of political thugs has instilled fear and disillusionment among citizens, resulting in decreased political participation, reluctance to engage in civic activities, and erosion of public trust in democratic institutions. The paper recommends enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies and judicial institutions to investigate, prosecute, and deter perpetrators of political thuggery, ensuring swift and impartial justice for electoral offenses; implementing comprehensive civic education programs aimed at raising awareness about democratic rights and responsibilities, promoting non-violent political engagement, and fostering community resilience against political manipulation.