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Between Neutrality and Influence: Public Perceptions of Foreign Election Observers in Nigeria’s 2023 General Elections
Subject area: Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities · Area of research: Election Observation & Public Perception
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV8I9-1718306
Abstract
This study examines public perceptions of foreign election observers during Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, focusing on the tension between perceived neutrality and influence. Drawing on theories of democratic legitimacy and international election observation, the research investigates how Nigerian voters assess the credibility, impartiality, and impact of observer missions on electoral outcomes. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining a survey of 450 registered voters across six states with 20 semi-structured interviews with civil society actors and journalists. Findings show that while 62% of respondents viewed observer presence as important for electoral credibility, only 38% trusted their neutrality, citing concerns over foreign interests and selective reporting. Perceptions varied significantly by region, education level, and party affiliation, with opposition supporters more likely to view observers as legitimate validators. The study reveals that media framing of observer reports amplified perceptions of influence, often overshadowing the missions’ stated mandate. The findings contribute to debates on the role of international actors in African elections and highlight implications for electoral communication, observer transparency, and domestic ownership of electoral processes.
Keywords
Election Observation, Public Perception, Electoral Legitimacy, Nigeria 2023, Media Framing, Democratic Accountability
How to cite this paper
@article{1718306,
author = {Adedowole, I. F},
title = {Between Neutrality and Influence: Public Perceptions of Foreign Election Observers in Nigeria’s 2023 General Elections},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2025},
volume = {8},
number = {9},
pages = {2035-2042},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1718306.pdf},
abstract = {This study examines public perceptions of foreign election observers during Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, focusing on the tension between perceived neutrality and influence. Drawing on theories of democratic legitimacy and international election observation, the research investigates how Nigerian voters assess the credibility, impartiality, and impact of observer missions on electoral outcomes. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining a survey of 450 registered voters across six states with 20 semi-structured interviews with civil society actors and journalists. Findings show that while 62% of respondents viewed observer presence as important for electoral credibility, only 38% trusted their neutrality, citing concerns over foreign interests and selective reporting. Perceptions varied significantly by region, education level, and party affiliation, with opposition supporters more likely to view observers as legitimate validators. The study reveals that media framing of observer reports amplified perceptions of influence, often overshadowing the missions’ stated mandate. The findings contribute to debates on the role of international actors in African elections and highlight implications for electoral communication, observer transparency, and domestic ownership of electoral processes.},
keywords = {Election Observation, Public Perception, Electoral Legitimacy, Nigeria 2023, Media Framing, Democratic Accountability},
month = {March},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV8I9-1718306}
}