POLITICAL APATHY IN NIGERIA, CAUSES AND IMPLICATIONS: THE EBONYI STATE EXPERIENCE

Innocent Aja Ngene; Eugene Chukwu Otu; Bassey Theophilus Nicholas; Christopher Ikechukwu Obiukwu; Justina Chinenye Igwe

Authors

Innocent Aja Ngene Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike
Eugene Chukwu Otu Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki
Bassey Theophilus Nicholas Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki
Christopher Ikechukwu Obiukwu Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki
Justina Chinenye Igwe Alvan Ikoku University of Education, Owerri

Keywords:

Gender Disparity, Political Apathy, Social Contract, Democracy

Abstract

This study examined the causes and implications of political apathy in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. It was conducted within selected Local Governments in Ebonyi State. The objective of the study was to establish measures that would help improve political participation in the state. The study adopted the social contract theory and employed a survey research design. Both primary and secondary sources of data were explored, and the chi-square statistical formula was used for data analysis. Findings revealed that the rate of political apathy in Ebonyi State is alarming. Several factors, including poor leadership and inadequate political orientation, were identified as major causes. This situation was found to be detrimental to both political and economic development. The study concluded that citizens in the state do not inherently dislike politics but need sufficient motivation and reasons to participate. Therefore, the researcher recommended intensive public orientation on the importance of political participation, the establishment of people-oriented leadership, and improved security measures during and after elections to curb the trend of political apathy.