Post-Election Violence, Thuggery and Internal Displacement in Lagos State: A Critical Evaluation of the 2023 Nigerian General Elections

Abstract

Major crises associated with the post elections and thuggery in Lagos state constitute one of the nation’s most worrisome humanitarian crises. Thugs and ‘area boys’ are always on rampage before, during and after elections in most parts of the state. With incidences of post-election conflict and violence, the number of the homeless persons and wounded patriots in the state rise intermittently. In addressing these crises in the state, efforts of the government have not yielded a favourable result. This study is therefore interrogating the extent to which these conflicts have contributed to the crisis of the homeless people, as well as the challenges facing them in their various locations throughout the state and the problems which government encounters while dealing with the crises. The study adopted Social Inclusion Theory as theoretical framework while content analysis and other secondary sources of data are used for analysis. Findings of the study reveal that internal displacement occasioned by post-election crises in Lagos state is largely caused by violent conflict by party members and electorates and the inability of the local and state governments in finding lasting solutions to issues of conflicts and violence within the state. The study made recommendations that he promotion of good governance at all levels of governance in the state is germane to the peaceful co-existence of all residents. Also, that the state assembly should enact a legislation which reinforces the state’s primary responsibility to protect the rights and the well -being of people forced out of their homes due to conflict, violence, disaster and human rights abuses.