INTERNAL PARTY DEMOCRACY AS A PANACEA FOR FREE, FAIR AND CREDIBLE ELECTIONS IN NIGERIA.

Abstract

The paper agrees that democracy as a system of government has been adjudged as the best because of the opportunity it gives to the majority of the populace to participate in governance. It looks at the basic features and characteristics of democracy that distinguishes it from other forms of government. The paper' also traces the evolution of political parties in Nigeria and established that the Macpherson constitution of1951 was an important landmark in the political development of Nigeria, for it strengthened the political machinery through which Nigerians participated in the management of their affairs. It further argues that since parties constitute the heart of democracy, the more vigorous and healthy they are, the better assured is the health of democratic process itself. The paper laments that most parties pay lip service to the concept of internal democracy, and in reality do not practice it nor respect it. Be that as it may concludes the paper the hope for credible elections in Nigeria cannot be achieved in the near further.