Who do politicians target in the distribution of public goods? Evidence from public housing provision in selected states in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examines the pattern of public housing distribution in Nigeria. Using qualitative 
data from Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara state housing programmes from 2000-2013, the study revealed that over 6 000 housing units were constructed and distributed in the selected states under various public housing programmes since 2000. The study further revealed that the housing units were distributed to public servants and politicians. However, other social groups such as business and miscreant groups (based on political considerations) also benefitted from the programmes. Similarly, the paper also found that these groups of beneficiaries were selected based on their perceived roles and contributions in voter mobilisation, electioneering campaigns as well as influencing electoral outcome. Thus, the paper concludes that the targeting strategies adopted in public housing distribution have neglected the majority of the people who desperately need housing. These targeting strategies have transformed public housing into clientelistic goods designed to reward supporters and financiers of the ruling political party. It thus creates clientelistic networks employed by politicians to influence, control and maintain existing power relations in their favour. Given the number of people in need of housing, the paper recommends the adoption of a basic needs approach in targeting beneficiaries of public 
housing in order to ensure equitable distribution of public goods in the selected states.