Background of the Study
WhatsApp has emerged as a critical tool in mobilizing grassroots political movements by enabling rapid communication and coordination among community members. In Ikorodu, political groups and activists have increasingly relied on WhatsApp to disseminate information, organize meetings, and mobilize supporters (Ekwueme, 2023). The platform’s user-friendly interface and widespread adoption have transformed political campaigning at the grassroots level, allowing for real-time discussions and prompt responses to political developments (Olawale, 2024). However, the use of WhatsApp also poses challenges related to message verification and the potential for spreading unverified information (Nnamdi, 2025). This study examines the role of WhatsApp in mobilizing grassroots political movements, exploring both its strengths as a communication tool and the challenges it presents. By analyzing user behavior and communication patterns, the research aims to uncover the factors that drive successful grassroots mobilization and how digital tools can empower local political participation.
Statement of the Problem
While WhatsApp offers a powerful means for grassroots political mobilization, its use in Ikorodu has not been without challenges. Issues such as the rapid spread of unverified information and the lack of formal moderation can lead to misinformation and political polarization (Chima, 2023). These problems undermine the credibility of grassroots movements and hamper effective political organization. This study seeks to identify these challenges and explore ways to mitigate their effects, thereby enhancing the positive impact of WhatsApp as a tool for grassroots political mobilization (Okoro, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
To assess the role of WhatsApp in mobilizing grassroots political movements.
To identify challenges associated with its use for political mobilization.
To propose strategies to optimize the effectiveness of WhatsApp in grassroots activism.
Research Questions:
How is WhatsApp used to mobilize grassroots political movements in Ikorodu?
What challenges are associated with its use in political mobilization?
What strategies can improve the effectiveness of WhatsApp in grassroots political activities?
Research Hypotheses:
WhatsApp significantly enhances grassroots political mobilization.
The spread of unverified information on WhatsApp negatively impacts political mobilization.
Structured moderation can improve the quality of grassroots mobilization via WhatsApp.
Significance of the Study
This study provides valuable insights into the role of WhatsApp in grassroots political mobilization, offering recommendations to overcome challenges related to misinformation and polarization. The findings will benefit political organizers, digital strategists, and policymakers seeking to harness social media for effective grassroots engagement (Amadi, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to grassroots political mobilization through WhatsApp in Ikorodu Local Government and focuses exclusively on this platform’s role.
Definitions of Terms:
WhatsApp: A messaging application used for instant communication.
Grassroots Political Movement: A political campaign driven by community-level participation.
Mobilization: The process of rallying people for political or social action.
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