Non-State Armed Groups and the 2023 General Elections in Nigeria

The number and activities of non-state armed groups (NSAGs) have recently grown in spread and scale in Nigeria. This paper examines the implications of the activities of non-state armed groups (NSAGs) for the conduct of 2023 general elections in Nigeria across the three stages of the electoral cycle - the pre-election period, the election period, and the post-election period. It profiled these groups and posits that their motivations, presence and operations increased the risk of violence and insecurity during election days. The paper argues that desperate politicians incentivize such NSAGs to cause violence in opposition's stronghold as a veritable strategy of voter suppression, discontinuation, postponement or inconclusive elections. It proffers actionable recommendations that should form part of a robust, comprehensive security plan to deal with the risks posed to future elections by NSAGs in Nigeria.