Internal Democracy and Party Politics in Nigeria

Abstract

This chapter examines the intricate relationship between internal democracy and party politics in Nigeria. The nation's political landscape, marked by a diverse cultural fabric and complex socio-economic dynamics, has been significantly influenced by the internal democratic processes within political parties. The study explores the challenges and implications of internal democracy on the overall political development of Nigeria. It analyzes the impact of party primaries, party leadership and discipline on the democratic process using Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressive Congress (APC) as case studies. The paper draws on a range of scholarly works to offer a comprehensive overview of the complexities surrounding internal democracy within Nigerian political parties. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for fostering a more robust and inclusive democratic process in the country.