Intersectionality and Political Participation: How Gender, Ethnicity, and Disability Shape Voter Behavior in Nigeria.

Abstract

Political participation is a cornerstone of democracy; however, social identities 
such as gender, ethnicity, and disability intersect to shape individuals’ 
experiences in electoral processes. This study investigates how these intersecting 
identities influence voter behavior within Nigeria’s electoral system, a nation 
characterized by ethnic diversity, gender disparities, and challenges in disability 
inclusion. The research examines how gender, ethnicity, and disability interact to 
affect voter turnout, political preferences, and electoral participation. Employing 
a quantitative approach, the study integrates survey data collected independently 
and analyzed before merging findings, ensuring that statistical trends and 
personal experiences provide a comprehensive perspective. The study population 
comprises women, particularly from marginalized ethnic backgrounds; ethnic 
minorities from smaller, historically underrepresented groups; and persons with 
disabilities (PWDs) facing accessibility barriers in elections. A sample of 300 
registered voters (50 per each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones) was randomly 
selected from JONAPWD records using purposive sampling to ensure diverse 
representation across gender, ethnicity, and disability categories. Data were 
gathered through structured questionnaires administered via online Google Forms 
and paper-based surveys for respondents with limited digital access, capturing 
voter turnout, political preferences, and barriers to participation. Descriptive 
statistics were used to identify patterns in voter behavior, while inferential 
statistics, specifically logistic regression, tested the relationships between gender, 
ethnicity, disability, and voter participation, with analyses conducted using SPSS. 
Findings reveal that intersectionality significantly shapes political engagement, 
with women from ethnic minority groups and PWDs facing compounded 
obstacles such as discrimination, socio-economic constraints, inadequate 
electoral accommodations, logistical mobility challenges, and poor security 
arrangements. Cultural norms and institutional barriers further disenfranchise 
these groups, resulting in lower voter turnout and limited political influence. The 
study concludes that fostering an inclusive democracy in Nigeria necessitates 
targeted electoral reforms, enhanced accessibility for PWDs, and policies 
addressing the unique challenges of marginalized groups.