Abstract

The study examined the nexus between socio-cultural groups’ endorsement and counter-endorsement of presidential candidates and voting patterns in the 2019 general elections in Nigeria and the consequent implications for 2023 general elections in Nigeria. The purpose of the study was to examine if the overt endorsement and counter-endorsement of presidential candidates by Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Arewa Consultative Forum, Afenefere, Middle belt Forum, Pan-Niger-Delta Forum, Southwest Youth Forum Orhobo Youth Forum among others had a significant influence on the voting pattern in such region. The research design adopted for the study was ex-post factor research design. Secondary sources and nonparticipant observation were the major data collection instruments. Data collected were analyzed using table, percentage as well as qualitatively. Rational Choice Theory provides a strong explanatory compass and insight to what influence voting pattern as recorded and observed in the 2019 general election in Nigeria. The study revealed that, the endorsement and counter-endorsement of presidential candidates by ethnic social cultural organizations like Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Afenifere of Yorubas, Arewa Consultation Forum, Pan-Niger-Delta Forum, Southwest Youth Forum, and Middle Belt Forum among others significantly influence the percentage of votes each presidential candidate got in each geo-political zone. In the light of the above findings, the study recommended among other things that, The ethnic socio-cultural organization should stop endorsing political candidates during elections because it influence the rate of ethnic motivated voting pattern as against issue based voting pattern which is ideal for a democracy that wants to develop.