IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL POLICY (JHSP )

E-ISSN 2545-5729
P-ISSN 2695 2416
VOL. 9 NO. 3 2023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.56201/jhsp.v9.no3.2023.pg75.89

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Internal Party Democracy and Zoning System in Nigeria: The Case of Peoples Democratic Party 2022 Presidential Primary Election

Oluchi Florence Ema-Etokudo; Kenneth Nweke & Evans Onuabuchi Nwankwo

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Abstract

The 2022 presidential primaries of Nigeria's Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) marked a significant turning point in the party's history due to its departure from the traditional zoning principle, a core aspect of its internal democracy. This shift had profound consequences for the party's internal dynamics. This research was driven by three key questions and objectives, rooted in Neoinstitutionalism theory. It utilized historical and descriptive research methods, primarily analyzing documentary sources through thematic and content analysis. The findings revealed multiple challenges to the PDP's internal democracy, including ideological issues, the abandonment of the zoning system, and the dominance of party executives. Specifically, the study highlighted how the 2022 deviation from the zoning principle in the PDP's presidential primaries significantly disrupted the party's internal democracy. This decision led to notable implications, causing internal divisions and fragmentation within the party along zonal lines. Thus, the study underscored the need for the PDP to take decisive steps to repair and strengthen its internal democracy. Recommendations included a public reaffirmation of its commitment to democratic values, particularly the zoning system, as a means to regain trust and credibility among party members and voters.

keywords:

Internal, Political Party, Democracy, Zoning, Election

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References:

Abati, R. (February 8, 2022). The politics of zoning. https//:the-nigerian-lawyer.com
Abdulmumin, I. (October 16, 2021). Zoning policy in Nigeria political system: Reasons,
effects and intricacies. Premium Times Newspaper. http.www.premiumtim.com
Abidoye, B. & Iroansi, O. (April 8, 2022). Analysis: 2023 presidential election: PDP still at
zoning
crossroads.
Premimum
Times
Newspaper.
http://
www.premimumtime.com

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