The application of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms in the resolution of electoral disputes: Nigeria in perspective

This dissertation explores the functionality of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as an effective mechanism in Electoral Dispute Resolution (EDR) in Nigeria. It considers the evolution and application of ADR in Nigeria as well as the merits and successes of ADR in EDR to assess the essentiality and suitability of ADR in EDR in Nigeria. It also examines the Nigerian electoral dispute setting and international trends in the application of ADR in EDR to determine the practicability of ADR in EDR in Nigeria. The dissertation finds that although the utilisation of ADR is desirable and suitable in EDR in Nigeria, the utilisation of ADR in EDR is not formally endorsed in Nigeria. Furthermore, the current Nigerian sociopolitical atmosphere is not conducive for the efficient application of ADR in EDR. This notwithstanding, research indicates that the adoption of a wide-ranging approach, which entails structural, legislative, institutional, political, attitudinal and socio-economic reforms, would ensure the achievement of the efficient utilisation of ADR in EDR in Nigeria. This dissertation therefore concludes that, despite the present unfavourable condition, ADR can be an efficient mechanism in EDR in Nigeria, given an enabling environment