EFFECTS OF FINANCIAL DISPARITIES BETWEEN THE APC AND PDP ON THE ELECTORAL PERFORMANCE OF THE TWO PARTIES IN MALUMFASHI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA
Muhammad Muhammad
Department of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina, Nigeria
Email: muhammadmuhammadmono@gmail.com
Abstract
The study examined the effects of financial disparities between the APC and PDP on the electoral performance of the two parties in Malumfashi local government area, Katsina state of Nigeria. The study employed a cross sectional descriptive survey research design to examine the effects of financial disparities between the APC and PDP on the electoral performance of the two parties. The targeted population was 351 APC officials and 222 PDP officials. Disproportionate stratified random sampling was used to select 39 party officials, ensuring representation across both parties. Data were gathered through a validated closed-ended questionnaire. Quantitative data were analysed through simple frequency tables and percentages, means and standard deviation, and SPSS version 23 was used in running the analysis. The findings of the study reveal that the APC’s superior financial resources significantly influenced its electoral performance in Malumfashi during the 2023 general elections. This finding aligns with broader scholarly discussions on the role of money in politics. Financial disparities significantly shaped the electoral performance of APC and PDP in Malumfashi, with APC consistently rated higher in funding-related activities such as media outreach, mobilization, and campaign organization. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that there is need for Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enhance oversight by implementing stricter limits on campaign spending and requiring full disclosure of political donations and expenditures. Regular audits and penalties for violations would discourage excessive or opaque funding practices, ensuring a more level playing field for all political parties.
Keywords: Effects, Financial Disparities, APC and PDP Parties, Electoral Performance.
