ELECTORATES’ PERCEPTION OF ELECTORAL CAMPAIGN MANIFESTOS AND POST-ELECTION PERFORMANCES OF GOVERNORS IN EKITI STATE FROM 2010-2024

Abstract

This study examined electorates’ perception of electoral campaign manifestos and the post-election performances of governors in Ekiti State from 2010 to 2024. As electoral manifestos serve as key tools for candidates to communicate policy intentions, there is often a gap between campaign promises and actual governance, raising questions about accountability. The study addressed the limited research on how electorates assess the alignment between pre-election pledges and post-election performance across multiple election cycles. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 400 respondents in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, through structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. Findings reveal a significant relationship between electorates’ perceptions of campaign manifestos and their assessment of governors’ fulfillment of promises. Post-election performance was largely influenced by the extent of alignment with campaign pledges, while governance effectiveness, transparency, political communication, and socioeconomic conditions emerged as key determinants of voter perceptions. Furthermore, evaluations of manifesto fulfillment significantly influenced future voting behaviour and political participation. The study concludes that bridging the gap between campaign promises and actual governance is critical for enhancing public trust, accountability, and democratic engagement. It recommends that candidates develop realistic, well-structured manifestos and maintain transparent, effective governance to strengthen electorates’ confidence and participation in the political process.