Analyst says declining voter turnout reflects loss of trust in Nigeria’s electoral system, not voter apathy.
Dayo Sobowale, has argued that Nigeria’s growing voter apathy is not simply a lack of interest in elections, but a deeper crisis of trust in the democratic process, warning that citizens are withdrawing because they no longer believe their votes count.
Speaking in an interview on Friday, Sobowale agreed with concerns about declining voter turnout and governance failures but insisted the issue goes beyond apathy.
He explained that democracy is fundamentally built on trust between the electorate and those elected into office, and when that trust is broken, participation naturally declines.
“Democracy is based on trust. Trust of the electorate in the people they have elected to deliver on their promises.”
According to him, weak electoral integrity remains a key factor undermining legitimacy and reducing citizens’ confidence in the system.
“If the election is lacking in integrity, it will fail us, will lack legitimacy and that legitimacy will affect their authority.”
Sobowale noted that political structures in Nigeria have further widened the gap between leaders and citizens, making many voters feel excluded from governance.
“The political parties have created a class of their own in which they see themselves as they versus the rest of us.”
He added that this disconnect, combined with hardship and insecurity, has discouraged participation, as many citizens no longer see value in voting.
“People get disinterested in the system that does not profit them in any way and they abandon trust.”
Sobowale stressed that the issue is not voter indifference but a rational response to perceived system failure.
He argued that rebuilding confidence requires credible elections where citizens are convinced that their votes truly matter.
“We have to start for organizing free and fair elections… and making their votes count.”
He also warned that continued electoral malpractice risks further eroding democratic legitimacy.
“It’s a pity, it’s like a mockery of democracy.”
Sobowale concluded that restoring trust, improving electoral integrity, and ensuring accountability are essential to reversing voter disengagement and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.