Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
28 February 2023 | 11:54 CAT

Image: Bloomberg

The first results have been published in Nigeria’s general elections after a weekend of delays and disruptions. Three front-runners emerged in a race to replace outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari.

Outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari is stepping down after nearly eight years in power amid chaos and widespread unrest. Many people need help accessing the cash they need to buy food because of a botched roll-out of new banknotes.

Coupled with the high energy cost in the paradox of Nigeria being the eighth largest producer of oil globally, yet needs more diesel and oil for the economy.

But the cash and energy crisis are not the only problem Nigerians face. The last year was marked by struggle and tragedy, including high inflation and deadly attacks by shooters against innocent civilians.

Speaking to Radio Islam International Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Global Dialogue, Ashraf Patel, many factors have created a perfect storm for a range of discontent in society, which is coming to play in this election.

According to opinion polls, 18 candidates campaign for the top job, but only three have a realistic chance of winning. Only one of the 18 is a woman.

Listen to the interview on Your World Today with host Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and guest Ashraf Patel.