Technology-driven election administration in Nigeria: A determinant or deterrent to fraud-tainted elections?

Abstract

Digital technologies have moderately reduced inflated voter accreditation figures in Nigeria; however, other forms of electoral fraud continue to undermine electoral integrity. This study argues that technology-based elections have repeatedly suffered biometric device failures because critical enabling factors—such as electricity, internet connectivity, and technical expertise—remain inadequate, hindering the smooth implementation of biometric policies. These challenges have hybridised the electoral system, as policy reversals and the adoption of manual accreditation have undermined INEC’s commitment to fully govern voter accreditation through biometric devices. The study draws on the cybernetic communication model and the frustration–aggression hypothesis for theoretical insights, and employs the documentary method for data collection, with descriptive statistics and content analysis used for data analysis. Findings indicate that biometric device failures, largely caused by infrastructural and human resource deficiencies, facilitate fraud, exacerbate electoral conflicts, and render contests highly controversial. Such failures open avenues for electoral manipulation, generating discontent that manifests in lethal violence, rejection of outcomes through litigation, and voter apathy. These results underscore the urgent need for policy reforms aimed at strengthening technological adoption and improving enabling infrastructure and human capacity, thereby maximizing the intended benefits of biometric systems in Nigerian elections.