Free and Fair Elections

 Meaning of Free and Fair Election

Elections are a central feature of democracy. For elections to express the will of the electorate, they must be free and fair.

Free in the context of the election mean that all those entitled to vote have the right to be registered and vote and must be free to make their choice.  In Nigeria, every citizen over the age of 18 is entitled to vote.

An election is considered ‘’free’’ when you can decide whether or not to vote freely for the candidate or party of your choice without fear or intimidation.

Fair in the context of an election means that all registered political parties have an equal opportunity to contest the election, campaign for voter support and hold meetings and rallies.

This gives them a fair chance to convince voters to vote for them.

A fair election is also one in which all voters have an equal opportunity to register, where all votes are counted, and where the announced results reflect the actual vote total.

Importance of Free and Free Election in Nigeria.

There is the need for free and fair elections in Nigeria. This is because of the following reasons:

I. Election brings peace and harmony in society.

ii. It brings the right candidate to the office.

iii. It helps in the political and economic development of the country.

iv. It brings about social stability.

The Electorate