Developing a Community-Based Election Monitoring and Whistleblowing Framework to Combat Electoral Malpractices in the South-South Geopolitical Zone, Nigeria

Abstract

Electoral malpractice continues to hinder democratic consolidation in Nigeria, particularly in the South-South region where citizen oversight is weak. This study developed a Community-Based Election Monitoring and Whistleblowing Framework (CEMWF) to strengthen transparency and accountability during elections. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys of 432 respondents across Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Delta States with qualitative interviews and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using weighted descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, logistic regression, and difference-in-differences (DID) analysis, while spatial hotspot mapping and thematic coding complemented the results. Findings showed that 48.3% of respondents experienced electoral malpractice, but only 26.4% reported it, citing low institutional trust (mean = 2.7/5) and a strong preference for anonymity (mean = 4.7/5). Smartphone ownership (71.7%) and internet access (65.2%) demonstrated readiness for digital monitoring. Reporting likelihood increased with incident severity (OR = 1.80, p < 0.001) and smartphone ownership (OR = 2.30, p = 0.004), while anonymity concerns discouraged reporting. They DID results showed a 3.5-point reduction (p = 0.010) in verified malpractices post-intervention. The study concludes that community-driven, blockchain-enabled monitoring can enhance electoral integrity and rebuild citizen trust in governance.