THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS (CSOS) AND POLITICAL PARTIES IN SAFEGUARDING CIVIL BEHAVIOR DURING ELECTIONS IN PLATEAU STATE

Abstract

Elections are fundamental to democratic governance, but their credibility and peaceful conduct largely depend on the behaviour of political actors and citizens throughout the electoral process. In Plateau State, Nigeria, electoral periods have often been characterized by tension, hate speech, voter intimidation, political violence, and other forms of uncivil behaviour that threatens democratic stability and social cohesion. This article examines the role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and political parties in safeguarding civil behaviour during elections in Plateau State. The paper explores how CSOs contribute through voter education, election monitoring, advocacy for peaceful participation, conflict prevention, and the promotion of democratic values, while political parties are assessed based on their responsibility in candidate selection, issue-based campaigns, adherence to electoral rules, and discouragement of violence among supporters. Using a qualitative approach based on secondary sources, including scholarly articles, policy documents, electoral reports, and media publications, the study analyses the extent to which these actors influence electoral civility and the electoral processes in Plateau. The findings reveal that while CSOs have made significant contributions toward promoting peaceful elections and civic responsibility, political parties often undermine these efforts through inflammatory rhetoric, electoral malpractice, and weak internal democratic practices. The study concludes that strengthening collaboration between CSOs, political parties, electoral institutions, and security agencies is essential for
sustaining peaceful and credible elections in Plateau State. It recommends stronger enforcement of electoral laws, increased civic education, institutional support for CSOs, and greater party accountability to enhance democratic culture and civil electoral behaviour.