Political Participation in Nigerian Democracy: A Study of Some Selected Local Government Areas in Ondo State, Nigeria.
This paper examined the extent to which the citizens are involved in political activities. The study adopted both qualitative and quantitative means of data collection. A questionnaire titled Political Participation Attitude Scale (PPAS) was the quantitative instrument used for the study. A Focus Group Guide on Political Participation (FGGPP) was used to obtain qualitative data. Three research questions were raised and answered in the study. The findings of the study revealed that 57% of the participants were not actively involved in political activities. Also, there was effect of gender on political participation. 30% and 13% of males and females respectively were highly involved in political activities. Also, 38% and 12% of males and females respectively were regularly involved in voting exercise. In addition, it was discovered in the study that majority (53%) of the respondents had no confidence in their political leaders. On the basis of the findings of this study, it is recommended that there is urgent need for formal and informal approaches to political education in Nigeria. Also, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should put machinery in place to ensure mass participation of the Nigerian citizen in the coming 2015 general election.
