PROLIFERATION OF POLITICAL PARTIES AND NIGERIA'S DEMOCRACY

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The presence of numerous political parties is designed to provide credible competition, offering voters a wider range of choices among candidates vying for elective positions under various party platforms. Consequently, political parties should ideally compete

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With the exceptions of 1999 and 2015, previous general elections have consistently demonstrated a pattern amongst political parties, as exemplified in the 2003, 2007, and 2011 general elections where parties simply formed alliances.

Nigeria\'s democracy has been impacted largely in various ways by the proliferation of political parties, particularly since the Fourth Republic. While a larger number of parties can theoretically provide voters with more choices and foster competition, others cannot afford the structure required for the party to stand including it\'s spread. Proliferation  of parties  often resulted in internal party issues, political instability, and a weakening of democratic institutions.

Although the multiplicity of political parties is a cornerstone of democratic governance, their proliferation in Nigeria has not always translated into a more resilient democracy. The priority should be on strengthening internal party democracy, promoting issue-based politics, and ensuring that parties are genuinely accountable to the  people.

A multi-party system facilitates competition for power among parties, enabling them to potentially assume power independently or through strategic alliances. Moreover, multiple parties allow diverse interests and opinions to secure political representation, ensuring accountability to democratic principles and fostering a system of internal checks and balances within  governments.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is a vital institution in Nigeria\'s democracy, responsible for conducting elections and ensuring the integrity of the democratic process. INEC\'s functions are critical to maintaining public trust in the government and the democratic system, and include organizing elections, registering political parties, monitoring their activities, and auditing their finances. While INEC faces shortcomings and challenges, it remains a crucial component of Nigeria\'s democratic framework and cannot be deemed a failed institution. So far, the Nigeria Independent Electoral Commission has received letters of intent from 110 associations seeking to register as political parties. While this volume of applications may raise concerns, INEC has a responsibility to screen out ineligible groups according to its guidelines.

The registration of more political parties in Nigeria could potentially increase voter choices and provide more inclusive representation of diverse interests. However, it could also lead to a fragmented political landscape, making it more challenging for voters to discern the differences between partiies Furthermore, a large number of parties might strain the electoral process and resources, especially if many parties lack the wherewithal to form and fund  strong  parties. Political pundits posit a two party system is best.They argue that it will make for  ideological base and create better opposition.