How citizens resist political propaganda and ethnic-based politics
What is it about?
Our study looked at how language can be used to challenge the old electoral structures and leadership and make a case for a new leadership devoid of ethnic and religious sentiments. We analysed 1,000 tweets by Nigerians on the 2023 general elections to uncover how they use language to resist perceived harmful electoral practices. The findings of our study include: 1) We found that social media allowed several Nigerians to challenge dominant narratives that prioritise political candidates' ethnicity, political party, and religion over their competence and track records. 2) In challenging these narratives, we observed that political parties that have produced Nigerian presidents in the past were rejected by citing their failures and shortcomings. Many Nigerians, therefore, called for the next president to emerge from a new political party. 3). Our study also showed that Nigerian youths demonstrated knowledge of the strategies political parties employ to perpetuate ethnic and religious hostilities among voters. This awareness propelled the voters into resisting such strategies and prioritising competence over the political party or ethnicity of the presidential candidates.
Why is it important?
Our study shows that social media is a vital tool used by citizens to challenge dominant narratives, which may not have been possible through traditional and legacy media. The study highlights the agency of voters in championing electoral change and enforcing democratic practices. Overall, the study shows the power of the masses.