This paper investigated the attendant and
manifest implications of monetization of politics on
socioeconomic development in Abia state. It explored the
character through which monetization of politics
expressed itself in Abia state in the fourth republic as well
as the implications on social and economic development in
the state. Two theories: Investment theory of party
competition, and Golden Mean were used in the study.
Survey design was also used and the sample size was 400
systematically drawn from four LGAs in Abia using
stratified sampling techniques. Primary and secondary
methods were adopted in gathering data, while data
gathered were analysed qualitatively and descriptively.
The study found that monetization of politics in Abia state
expressed itself in institutionalized high cost of party
forms/campaign costs cum lofty entitlements attached to
political offices, and financial inducement between the
candidates and the masses. The outcomes of these were
inadequate attentions to social and economic development
projects in the state. Meanwhile, the politicians kept
enjoying their packages whether effective in office or not.
The study recommended amongst other things, a
paradigm shift from politics of the rich to politics of
qualified civil servants, and establishment of external
development project monitoring bodies to ensure proper
implementation of public projects in Abia and Nigeria at
large.
Keywords : Monetization, Politics, Development, Socioeconomic, Investment, Inducement, Entitlements.