State elections will challenge Nigeria's ruling party

Significance

All 36 states will hold state assembly elections too. State governors have considerable local power and play critical roles in Nigeria’s federal system. The outcome of these elections will weigh heavily on national-level politics in the coming years.

Impacts

• Some election outcomes are likely to be contested in courts.
• Ongoing court cases around disputed primary elections may affect who can contest some gubernatorial seats.
• Significant electoral violence is possible.
• Infrastructure, a key issue in some campaigns, will likely be a top priority for eventual winners.