It was a hot and humid day in Nigeria. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation and excitement. Election fever had taken over the entire country.
The streets were filled with people, all draped in the colors of their favorite political party and shouting slogans. Everyone was eager to cast their vote in the upcoming elections.
The candidates were out in full force, canvassing for votes and making speeches. They promised to bring about change and development, and the people were eager to hear them out.
The candidates also held rallies and rallies were held in various towns and cities. Everywhere, people gathered to support their preferred candidates and hear what they had to say.
The media was also in full color, providing coverage of the election. They reported on the different parties and candidates, and their promises for the future.
As the day of the election drew closer, the tension in the air grew. Everywhere, people were discussing their favorite candidates and the possibilities of a new government. Everyone was eager to see who would be the next president.
On the day of the election, the people gathered in their voting places, anxiously awaiting the results. When they were finally announced, the entire country erupted in celebration.
The election fever had passed but the optimism remained.
I woke up and realized it was just a dream.
The History of Election fever
The term “Election fever” has been around since at least the late 19th century. It was used to describe the heightened emotions and enthusiasm associated with political campaigns and elections, as well as the intense activity taking place as candidates vie for the public’s favor.
In the United States, the term became more commonly used in the early 20th century. During this time, the country was emerging from the Industrial Revolution and the birth of the modern media. Election fever was fueled by the increased availability of newspapers and radio broadcasts, which allowed for the rapid spread of news about candidates and campaigns.
The growth of television in the 1950s and 1960s took election fever to a new level. With the advent of color television and the ability to quickly report results on election night, the public was able to follow the process in an unprecedented way.
Today, the term “Election fever” is still used to describe the passionate emotions and activity that accompany political campaigns and elections.
The pattern in Nigeria has not been very different, evolving over time. From the days that political campaigns were more like a display of oratory and a show of flamboyance of native African costumes from politicians like Okoti Eboh; to the days of activist politics sign posted by the likes of Mbonu Ojike of the boycott fame. Not to forget the period of the politics of Nigeria’s political wordsmith, Chief K O Mbadiwe.
In this modern age, the internet and social media have also increased the reach of election fever, with campaigns and candidates now able to reach an even broader audience than ever before.
The impact of social media on election fever is undeniable. Social media has become a powerful tool for candidates to reach out to voters and spread their message. It has become an invaluable source of information for voters, allowing them to stay informed about the candidates and their platforms. Social media has also enabled candidates to engage with voters directly, allowing them to answer questions and address concerns.
The increased use of social media during elections has increased voter participation, especially among young people. It has also allowed for more transparency and accountability in the election process. Candidates can now be held accountable for their promises, as social media allows for a more direct and public exchange of ideas.
Finally with social media, political parties has use this as a great strategic tool to engage with the voters by increasing visibility, enhance voter’s engagement and also with the use of endorsements.
It has also increased the drama associated with elections. That explains the use of social media for mobilization and recall of the failings of politicians even when they make verbal slips. May be you have heard of “Bulaba, Balablu and blublu”
The issues at the core of election fever are mainly economic and social.
Economically, the focus is on creating jobs, improving job security, increasing wages, and making sure that the economy is growing steadily and in a sustainable manner. Politicians must also come up with plans to reduce the budget deficit and/or national debt, as well as proposals for boosting the country’s competitiveness on the international stage.
Socially, the focus is on improving healthcare, education, and other public services. Politicians must also address issues of inequality and discrimination, as well as the needs of the most vulnerable in society. Additionally, they must provide solutions to issues such as climate change, protecting the environment, and ensuring a safe and secure society.
The issues at the core of an election are also heavily influenced by public opinion and the media. Politicians must be aware of the opinions and concerns of their constituents, as well as the issues being discussed in the media, in order to craft their message and shape their policy proposals.
This issue is clearly demonstrated in the political backlash of the current government’s decision to redesign the local currency near a General election. The confusion and economic misery the decision has generated has created infighting among members of the ruling political party
How does the voters turnout affect election fever
Voter turnout is a key indicator of the strength of a democracy. It is the percentage of eligible citizens who cast a ballot in an election. Understanding the factors that influence voter turnout is crucial for governments and policy makers looking to increase engagement in the political process.
Factors that influence voter turnout include things like the state of the economy, the competitiveness of the race, registration requirements, and the availability of early voting and absentee ballots. Other factors include the media’s coverage of the election, the perception of the candidates, the party affiliation of the candidates, and the amount of voter education available.
Political mobilization, or the process of activating and mobilizing voters, is also a key factor in increasing voter turnout. This includes strategies such as door-to-door canvassing, phone banking, and get-out-the-vote campaigns. These efforts help to inform potential voters about the importance of the election, remind them to vote, and provide resources that make it easier to vote.
Ultimately, understanding the factors that impact voter turnout is essential for governments and policy makers looking to increase engagement in the political process. By focusing on issues like the economy, candidate perception, and voter mobilization, governments can more effectively increase voter turnout.
What are the effects of international relations on election fever?
International relations can have a significant impact on election fever. How countries interact with each other and the decisions their leaders make can often be used as a political tool to galvanize support from the public. Events such as trade disputes, international sanctions, and military confrontations can create a sense of urgency and tension that can be utilized to increase voter turnout. Additionally, global events can be used as a lens to analyze a nation’s domestic policies, create a narrative of strength or weakness, and project a certain image of the nation to the world. This can be used to win over undecided voters or to appeal to certain demographics. Finally, international relations can also influence election fever by exposing certain issues and topics to the public, such as immigration policy, foreign aid, and trade deals.
The shocks that can be felt in a weak economy can have severe consequences especially for the economically vulnerable. It is advisable to acquire in-demand and cross-border skills in an economy like Nigeria’s.
You may also like to read my earlier blogs on Cholera, Typhoid Fever, Climate Change, Malaria, Genital Herpes, Head Lice, Scabies, Telemedicine, Success Mindset, Conjuctivitis, Ebola Virus Disease, Hepatitis B, Measles, Ear infecion, Meningitis., Lassa fever, workplace violence, Digital Healthcare, and Diphtheria.
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