An appraisal of social media influence on youth political participation in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State
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- NGN 5000
Background of the study
Social media has transformed the landscape of political communication and participation, especially among youth. In Uyo, young people increasingly use platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to express their political views, mobilize support, and hold leaders accountable. This digital engagement offers a platform for diverse voices, enabling a more inclusive political discourse that transcends traditional barriers of access and communication. The rapid growth of social media usage among the youth has fostered a dynamic environment where political activism is both widespread and immediate (Okon, 2023). The influence of these platforms is evident in how political campaigns are conducted and how political opinions are shaped by online discussions. Social media not only provides a forum for political expression but also plays a crucial role in the dissemination of political information, which is pivotal in shaping public opinion and participation (Eneyi, 2024). However, the unregulated nature of social media raises concerns about misinformation, polarization, and the potential manipulation of political processes. Recent studies have shown that while social media can empower youth by amplifying their political voices, it may also contribute to the spread of divisive content that undermines democratic processes (Ibe, 2025). The interplay between digital technology and political engagement in Uyo provides a fertile ground for examining the extent to which social media influences youth political participation. This study aims to explore this phenomenon by critically appraising the role of social media in fostering a politically active youth population in Uyo, and by assessing its broader implications on democratic practices.
Statement of the problem
Despite the promise of enhanced political participation through social media, there are concerns regarding its actual impact on youth political engagement in Uyo. While digital platforms have created new avenues for political expression, they have also introduced challenges such as the proliferation of misinformation and echo chambers that limit diverse political discourse (Okon, 2023). The rapid dissemination of unverified information can lead to polarization and hinder constructive political dialogue among young people. Moreover, the digital divide and varying levels of digital literacy mean that not all youth benefit equally from these platforms, leading to disparities in political participation. These issues are compounded by a lack of regulatory frameworks that ensure the accountability of social media content. Consequently, there is a critical need to evaluate whether social media truly enhances political participation or if it inadvertently reinforces existing societal divides. Limited empirical research in the context of Uyo further obscures our understanding of the impact of these digital dynamics on youth political engagement (Eneyi, 2024). This study seeks to address these gaps by investigating how social media influences political awareness, participation, and the overall democratic process among youth in Uyo (Ibe, 2025).
Objectives of the study
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To examine the role of social media in enhancing political participation among youth in Uyo.
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To identify the challenges and risks associated with digital political engagement.
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To propose strategies for leveraging social media to foster inclusive political discourse.
Research questions
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How does social media influence political participation among youth in Uyo?
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What are the major challenges associated with online political engagement?
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What strategies can optimize the use of social media for inclusive political participation?
Research Hypotheses
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H1: Social media significantly enhances youth political participation in Uyo.
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H2: The challenges of misinformation and polarization negatively impact the quality of political discourse.
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H3: Strategic interventions can optimize social media’s role in fostering inclusive political engagement.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it elucidates the impact of social media on youth political participation in Uyo. By identifying both the benefits and challenges, the research informs policymakers and civic organizations on how to harness digital platforms for democratic engagement. The findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of digital activism and its role in modern politics (Okon, 2023; Eneyi, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is limited to assessing the influence of social media on youth political participation within Uyo Local Government Area. It does not extend to other forms of digital activism or regions.
Definitions of terms
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Social Media: Online platforms that enable users to create, share, and interact with content and ideas.
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Political Participation: The various ways in which individuals engage in the political process, including voting, campaigning, and activism.
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Digital Activism: The use of digital tools and platforms to promote, impede, or direct social or political change.
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