THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN MOBILIZING PROTESTS AGAINST BAD GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF ENDBADGOVERNANCE PROTEST IN NIGERIA)

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THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN MOBILIZING PROTESTS AGAINST BAD GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF ENDBADGOVERNANCE PROTEST IN NIGERIA)

Chapter One: Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

Social media has revolutionized the way information is disseminated and has become a powerful tool for mobilizing social and political movements worldwide. In Nigeria, the role of social media in mobilizing protests against bad governance has been particularly prominent in the EndBadGovernance protests. These protests, which erupted in 2024, were fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with corruption, economic mismanagement, and poor governance. Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram played a crucial role in organizing, mobilizing, and sustaining these protests (Channelstv, 2024; Aljazeera, 2024).

The emergence of social media has transformed the landscape of political activism by providing a platform for real-time communication, coordination, and information sharing. Activists and ordinary citizens alike have used social media to document instances of injustice, share personal stories, and galvanize public support. The viral nature of social media content allows for rapid dissemination of information, enabling movements to gain momentum quickly and reach a global audience (Premium Times, 2024).

Historically, political movements in Nigeria have relied on traditional forms of media and grassroots organizing to mobilize support. However, the advent of social media has introduced new dynamics to activism. The decentralized nature of social media allows for more inclusive participation, where individuals can contribute to the movement irrespective of their geographic location. Additionally, social media provides a platform for marginalized voices that are often excluded from mainstream media narratives (Punchng, 2024).

The EndBadGovernance protests exemplify the transformative power of social media in mobilizing protests against bad governance. Hashtags such as #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria trended on social media, helping to unify the movement's message and attract international attention. Social media also facilitated the organization of protests, with activists using these platforms to coordinate logistics, share safety information, and provide updates on the movement's progress (Aljazeera, 2024).

This study seeks to explore the role of social media in mobilizing the EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria. By analyzing the strategies employed, the extent of social media's impact, and the challenges faced, the study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how social media influences political mobilization in the digital age.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The EndBadGovernance protests highlight the critical role of social media in mobilizing and sustaining social and political movements in Nigeria. However, while social media has proven to be a powerful tool for activism, it also presents several challenges and limitations. The problem lies in understanding the extent to which social media can effectively mobilize protests and drive meaningful change amidst various obstacles, including misinformation, government censorship, and digital divides.

One key issue is the ability of social media to sustain long-term engagement and translate online activism into offline action. Additionally, the spread of misinformation and fake news can undermine the credibility of the movement and create divisions among supporters. Government attempts to censor or control social media also pose significant challenges to its effectiveness as a mobilization tool (Punchng, 2024).

Analyzing the role of social media in the EndBadGovernance protests involves evaluating its effectiveness in organizing and mobilizing support, the strategies used to overcome challenges, and the overall impact on the movement. This evaluation is essential for understanding how social media can be leveraged for political activism and the implications for future movements in Nigeria and beyond.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To analyze the role of social media in mobilizing the EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria.

2. To assess the effectiveness of social media strategies used in organizing and sustaining the protests.

3. To examine the challenges and limitations of using social media as a tool for political mobilization.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How has social media been used to mobilize the EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria?

2. What strategies have been employed on social media to organize and sustain the protests?

3. What challenges and limitations are associated with using social media for political mobilization?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it provides a detailed analysis of the role of social media in mobilizing protests against bad governance, using the EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria as a case study. By evaluating the strategies, effectiveness, and challenges of social media mobilization, the study contributes to a broader understanding of digital activism and its impact on socio-political movements.

The findings of this study can inform activists, policymakers, scholars, and social media platform developers about the dynamics of using social media for political mobilization. It offers insights into best practices for leveraging social media to organize and sustain movements, as well as the potential pitfalls to be aware of. Additionally, the study highlights the transformative potential of social media in giving voice to marginalized groups and fostering inclusive participation in political processes.

1.6 Scope and Delimitation of the Study

The study focuses on the EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria, specifically analyzing the role of social media in mobilizing the movement. The case study approach allows for an in-depth examination of the strategies, effectiveness, and challenges of social media mobilization within the specific context of Nigeria. The study period covers the protests in 2024, providing a contemporary perspective on the issues at hand. While the findings may have broader implications for other contexts, the scope is limited to Nigeria and may not be directly applicable to other countries or regions.

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms

• EndBadGovernance Protests: A series of demonstrations in Nigeria aimed at addressing issues of poor governance, corruption, and economic mismanagement.

• Social Media: Digital platforms used for communication, organization, and mobilization of protests, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

• Political Mobilization: The process of organizing and encouraging people to participate in political movements or advocacy efforts.

• Digital Activism: The use of digital tools and platforms to advocate for social or political causes.

• Misinformation: False or misleading information spread deliberately or unintentionally, which can undermine the credibility of a movement.

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