SOCIAL MEDIAAND CHANGE OF GOVERNANCE NARRATIVES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The advent of social media has precipitated a significant paradigm shift in political communication globally. Social media has enabled citizens to become more engaged with their government, as it enhances public awareness and facilitates simple, multimodal interactions among individuals. In Nigeria, social media has been instrumental in electioneering campaigns, virtual polling unit monitoring, and as a conduit for information on official corruption and bribery, all aimed at transforming the governance system. This research evaluates the role of social media in altering governance practices in Nigeria. Agenda-setting and Uses and Gratification theories were employed to deepen the understanding of the study's focus. A quantitative research design was used, with 150 participants selected through simple random sampling from social media users, political party supporters, and other residents of Keffi Local Government Area in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The findings revealed that social media is a reliable source of information and has a positive impact on Nigeria's democratic governance. Data also indicated that social media networks provide a platform for all Nigerians to express their views on governance. The research concluded that social media platforms significantly enhance Nigerians' participation in the democratic process. The study recommends that journalists prioritise independent journalism to perform their duties without bias. In addition, there should be an increase in active participation in social media to ensure a diverse range of perspectives on governance. Citizens should also verify the source of information before taking action, and strict adherence to laws regarding false information is necessary, with offenders facing appropriate consequences.