Background of the Study:
Online petitions have emerged as a significant digital tool for mobilizing public opinion and advocating for social change. In Ijebu-East Local Government, Ogun State, these petitions are increasingly utilized as a means to express dissent and rally community support around social movements. The digital era has provided activists with platforms that bypass traditional media channels, ensuring that issues of social justice, human rights, and governance can reach a wider audience rapidly (Adebola, 2023). With the proliferation of social networking sites, online petitions have gained credibility as instruments of collective action, challenging established power structures (Balogun, 2024). However, while these petitions enhance participatory democracy, their impact on policy formulation remains ambiguous due to potential issues such as digital divides and misinformation. Additionally, the interplay between online mobilization and offline activism is complex and warrants comprehensive exploration (Oluwaseun, 2023). This study aims to dissect the mechanisms through which online petitions operate within social movements in Ijebu-East, considering both the enabling factors and the limitations imposed by technological and sociopolitical contexts.
Statement of the Problem:
Despite the growing popularity of online petitions as a tool for social mobilization, there is limited research on their effectiveness within Ijebu-East Local Government. The challenge lies in determining whether these digital instruments truly influence policy decisions or merely serve as symbolic gestures. Additionally, issues such as digital literacy, internet accessibility, and the risk of online manipulation complicate the impact of these petitions, necessitating a closer examination of their role in contemporary social movements (Adebola, 2023).
Objectives of the Study:
To assess the effectiveness of online petitions in mobilizing social movements in Ijebu-East Local Government.
To identify the factors that enhance or impede the success of online petitions.
To analyze the relationship between online mobilization and tangible policy changes.
Research Questions:
How effective are online petitions in influencing social movements in Ijebu-East Local Government?
What factors determine the success or failure of online petitions?
How do online petitions translate into offline political or policy changes?
Research Hypotheses:
Online petitions significantly mobilize community participation in social movements.
Higher digital literacy levels correlate with more successful online petition outcomes.
Online petitions have a measurable impact on subsequent policy changes.
Significance of the Study:
The findings will inform activists, policymakers, and digital strategists on leveraging online petitions to drive effective social change and strengthen democratic processes in Ijebu-East Local Government (Emeka, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
The study is limited to assessing the use of online petitions in social movements within Ijebu-East Local Government, Ogun State.
Definitions of Terms:
Online Petition: A digital request for change initiated through internet platforms.
Social Movement: A collective effort aimed at driving social or political change.
Digital Literacy: The ability to effectively use digital tools and platforms.
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