Omoregie Edoghogho

Edogiawerie Morris

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of campaign finance on electoral outcomes in the Edo State 2024 gubernatorial election, employing a secondary and qualitative research methodology. Grounded in the theoretical frameworks of Structural Functionalism and Rentier State Theory, the research explores how financial resources influence election dynamics, voter engagement, and candidate success. Structural Functionalism views election financing as a system component supporting political stability and function, while Rentier State Theory highlights the role of resource allocation in political competition and power consolidation. Findings reveal that campaign finance significantly enhanced candidate visibility and voter mobilisation, with major parties exceeding legal spending caps; unregulated and opaque funding practices facilitated vote-buying and compromised electoral integrity; and strategic early and sustained financial investments by candidates correlated strongly with electoral success. These findings underscore the critical role of campaign finance in shaping electoral outcomes and democratic quality in Edo State. Based on the analysis, the study recommends, a rigorous enforcement of existing campaign finance laws, including spending caps and transparent disclosures, an institutional reform to close loopholes around party and candidate financial separations, and a public funding mechanisms coupled with civic education to promote equitable political participation and reduce undue money influence. Ultimately, the Edo 2024 gubernatorial election highlights the imperative for Nigeria’s electoral system to address campaign finance challenges to safeguard democracy and ensure credible future elections.

   

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Published: 2026

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