An In-Depth Study on the Prevalence and Organizational Implications of Office Politics in Selected Nigerian Companies

Chinelo Patience Ohanyere; Emeka Alex Akwaeze; Joyce Ifeyinwa Odieli; Ekwutosi Theresa Ezeanorue

doi:10.59890/ijmbi.v3i6.246

Authors

Chinelo Patience Ohanyere Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University
Emeka Alex Akwaeze Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike
Joyce Ifeyinwa Odieli Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University
Ekwutosi Theresa Ezeanorue Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59890/ijmbi.v3i6.246

Keywords:

Office Politics, Organizational Performance, Employee Motivation, Workplace Relationships, Job Satisfaction

Abstract

Office politics is a prevalent issue in many Nigerian organizations, often manifested through favoritism, manipulation, and personal alliances that undermine merit-based systems. This study investigated the prevalence of office politics among employees of a bottling company in Lagos and Ogun States. Using Yamane’s formula and stratified sampling techniques, 80 respondents were selected, with 77 valid questionnaires analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests via SPSS version 23. The findings indicated that 54.5% of respondents perceived office politics as high, demonstrating its significant influence on workplace interactions and employee dynamics. The study concludes that unchecked office politics negatively affects fairness, transparency, and collaboration within organizations. It recommends the adoption of transparent management practices, open communication systems, equitable reward structures, and strong leadership accountability to reduce office politics and improve organizational performance and employee well-being.

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