Contemporary Nigerian Politics
Competition in a Time of Transition and Terror

Looks at how Nigeria's political parties compete for power in a context of transition, terrorism, and religious and ethnic tension.

A. Carl LeVan (Author)

9781108472494, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 17 January 2019

300 pages
23.5 x 15.6 x 2 cm, 0.55 kg

'… this book demonstrates a rich engagement with several bodies of theoretical literature. It offers excellent introductory discussions of postcolonial theory, trauma theory, humor theory, and dialogism for readers in biblical studies … generative and engaging readings of Revelation. Emanuel's monograph is well worth the attention of readers of Revelation, as well as anyone interested in postcolonial theory, trauma theory, and humor in biblical studies.' Sarah Emanuel, African Studies Association

In 2015, Nigeria's voters cast out the ruling People's Democratic Party (PDP). Here, A. Carl LeVan traces the political vulnerability of Africa's largest party in the face of elite bargains that facilitated a democratic transition in 1999. These 'pacts' enabled electoral competition but ultimately undermined the party's coherence. LeVan also crucially examines the four critical barriers to Nigeria's democratic consolidation: the terrorism of Boko Haram in the northeast, threats of Igbo secession in the southeast, lingering ethnic resentments and rebellions in the Niger Delta, and farmer-pastoralist conflicts. While the PDP unsuccessfully stoked fears about the opposition's ability to stop Boko Haram's terrorism, the opposition built a winning electoral coalition on economic growth, anti-corruption, and electoral integrity. Drawing on extensive interviews with a number of politicians and generals and civilians and voters, he argues that electoral accountability is essential but insufficient for resolving the representational, distributional, and cultural components of these challenges.

1. Introduction
2. The end of a new beginning: Nigeria's transition, 1999–2015
3. The rational counterterrorist? Economic policy and insurgent insecurity in Nigeria's 2015 presidential campaign
4. Voting against violence? Economic uncertainty and physical insecurity in 2015
5. Electoral integrity, ethnic affinity and religious revival in Nigeria's party turnover
6. Subnational subversion and institutional stress
7. Conclusion.

Subject Areas: Political economy [KCP], Political subversion [JPWJ], Pressure groups & lobbying [JPWD], Public opinion & polls [JPVK], Political parties [JPL], Political structures: totalitarianism & dictatorship [JPHX], Political structures: democracy [JPHV], Elections & referenda [JPHF]