Social Media and Political Participation among Youth in South-Eastern Nigeria: A Case Study of 2015 and 2019 General Elections
Social Media and Political Participation among Youth in South-Eastern Nigeria: A Case Study of 2015 and 2019 General Elections

Summary/Abstract: The study examines the role of social media and political participation among youth in southeastern Nigeria during the 2015–2019 general elections. Both primary and secondary data were used. The instruments used for data collection were a validated questionnaire and guided interview. The data were analyzed using content analysis. Against this backdrop the Public Sphere and Political Campaign Theory was adopted as a framework of analysis. The findings of the study show that the social media have a very crucial role to play in the promotion of accountability in any democratic society. It was also discovered that for twenty years now, the democratic journey has remained tortuous because of the reckless pursuits of power by the political class. It was concluded that the Nigerian social media need to overcome some of the above mentioned challenges that limit their performance as a credible institution entrusted with the role of serving as the watchdog of the society without flouting the media ethical standards and squander imperatives for objectivity. The study recommends a need to address good governance that would position fundamental governance and create an enabling environment for self-participation. Electorates should critically analyze the situation and make inquiries before voting for a candidate who will not bring about growth and development in the country.

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