Impact of Electoral Violence on Voter Turnout in Kogi State: A Study of the 2023 General Elections

This study examines the impact of electoral violence on voter turnout in Kogi State during the 2023 Nigerian General Elections, focusing on the North Central geopolitical zone. Electoral violence has remained a persistent obstacle to democratic consolidation in Nigeria, with its most pronounced effects manifesting in reduced voter participation and the delegitimisation of electoral outcomes. Using a descriptive survey design, the study collected data from 160 registered voters across Kogi Central, East, and West senatorial districts using structured questionnaires. In-depth interviews were also conducted with Independent National Electoral Commission officials, civil society observers, and community representatives. The study is theoretically anchored in the democratic peace theory and Afrobarometer's electoral integrity framework. Findings reveal that voter intimidation, ballot snatching, and armed thuggery during the 2023 elections deterred a substantial proportion of eligible voters, particularly women and first-time voters, from exercising their franchise. The study also identifies the role of political godfatherism in sponsoring electoral violence in Kogi State as a structural challenge undermining electoral reform. Recommendations include strengthening the electoral offences commission to prosecute perpetrators of electoral violence without political interference, deploying security personnel with clear neutrality mandates during elections, and establishing inter-party peace committees before electoral cycles. The study provides empirical data relevant to electoral conflict management in Nigeria's North Central states. Keywords: electoral violence, voter turnout, Kogi State, 2023 elections, democratic consolidation.