International records / OpenAlex research

Between Neutrality and Influence: Public Perceptions of Foreign Election Observers in Nigeria’s 2023 General Elections

This study examines public perceptions of foreign election observers during Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, focusing on the tension between perceived neutrality and influence. Drawing on theories of democratic legitimacy and international election observation, the research investigates how Nigerian voters assess the credibility, impartiality, and impact of observer missions on electoral outcomes. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining a survey of 450 registered voters across six states with 20 semi-structured interviews with civil society actors and journalists. Findings show that wh…