Harold Lasswell’s definition of politics as “who gets what, when, and how” serves as a potent lens through which to dissect the intricacies of political processes. Applying this framework to Governor Abdullahi Sule’ victory in the 2023 gubernatorial election in Nasarawa State illuminates the dynamic interplay of power, resource allocation, and decision-making at various stages, from the polling units to the highest echelons of the judiciary.
• The “Who” at the Polling Units:
Identifying key political actors at the polling unit level is crucial to understanding Governor Sule’s success. His ability to establish a robust network of local leaders, community influencers, and interest groups played a pivotal role. His emphasis on grassroots mobilization and community engagement endeared him to voters, strategically securing support at the foundational level.
• “Gets What” at the Court of Appeal:
As the election results faced legal scrutiny, the question of “who gets what” extended to the courtrooms. Governor Sule’s legal team adeptly presented arguments showcasing the benefits and mandates he promised during the campaign. The Court of Appeal became a battleground where the allocation of political influence and victory was contested, and Governor Sule’s legal strategy was instrumental in securing his electoral gains.
• Navigating the “When” Through Legal Timing:
The timing of legal strategies, including when manifestos were presented as evidence, endorsements were highlighted, and public engagements were referenced, played a crucial role in the proceedings of the Court of Appeal. Governor Sule’s legal team strategically timed their arguments to align with key moments in the election timeline, influencing the perception of events and shaping the narrative.
• Deciphering the “How” at the Supreme Court:
Governor Sule’s journey to the Supreme Court exemplifies the intricacies of the “how” in Lasswell’s definition. Here, the highest judicial authority became the arena for determining who would ultimately wield political power. Sule’s legal team navigated complex legal terrain, employing tactics that showcased the legitimacy of his victory. The “how” encompassed legal arguments, precedents, and the strategic presentation of evidence to secure a favorable outcome.
In essence, Lasswell’s framework helps us understand the multifaceted nature of Abdullahi Sule’s triumph in the Nasarawa State 2023 elections. The “who gets what, when, and how” is not a static concept but a dynamic process that unfolds across various stages. From the grassroots support garnered at the polling units to the legal battles fought in higher courts, Lasswell’s definition provides a comprehensive perspective on how power, resources, and decisions shaped Sule’s electoral journey. It underscores the intricate dance between political actors and the mechanisms employed to secure victory at every step of the political and legal process.
In the culmination of the Nasarawa State 2023 elections, it is imperative to recognize that, ultimately, the individual announced by the statutory body emerges as the winner. Politics, as Harold Lasswell astutely defined, encapsulates the intricate interplay of “who gets what, when, and how”. This definition, however, extends beyond the confines of casting votes.
While the journey from the polling units to the highest courts involves a complex tapestry of actors, strategies, and legal maneuverings, the conclusive declaration by the statutory body encapsulates the essence of political legitimacy. It signifies the acceptance of the results by the recognized authority, reaffirming the collective will expressed through the democratic process.
In acknowledging this, we must recognize that politics is a dynamic and multifaceted phenomenon. The amalgamation of grassroots support, legal prowess, and strategic timing, as seen in Abdullahi Sule’s electoral triumph, represents the intricate dance of power and influence. Yet, in the end, the pronouncement by the statutory body crystallizes the culmination of these various factors into a singular outcome — the announcement of the official winner.
The 2023 gubernatorial election in Nasarawa State, viewed through the lens of Lasswell’s definition, underscore the complexity of political processes. It emphasizes that politics is not confined solely to the act of casting votes but extends into the realms of legal battles, community engagement, and strategic decision-making. As we reflect on this electoral journey, we must recognize that the legitimacy conferred by the statutory body’s declaration is the definitive marker of success in the democratic arena.
Abu, A Political Affairs Analyst Can Be Reached Via Email On danjumaabu3750@gmail.com or +2348062380296 (text or WhatsApp only)
