An Investigation of Semantic Shifts in Nigerian Hashtag Trends: A Case Study of Twitter Political Movements
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Background of the study
Hashtag trends have become potent symbols of political discourse on social media, reflecting rapid semantic shifts in digital language. In Nigeria, Twitter has emerged as a primary platform where political movements utilize hashtags to encapsulate complex social issues and mobilize public opinion. These hashtags not only serve as markers for political activism but also drive semantic changes by reshaping the meanings of words and phrases (Okeke, 2023). This study investigates how political hashtag trends influence semantic evolution by examining shifts in meaning, context, and usage. Nigerian users frequently repurpose hashtags to challenge existing political narratives, thereby contributing to a dynamic redefinition of language (Ijeoma, 2024). The interplay between digital activism and semantic change highlights the power of hashtags in transforming linguistic landscapes. By focusing on political movements, the study explores how these digital artifacts contribute to broader societal discourses and identity formation. The analysis employs a case study approach to examine selected political hashtags, tracing their evolution and contextual shifts over time (Adeniyi, 2025). This research seeks to provide a deeper understanding of how semantic shifts driven by hashtag activism can influence public discourse and political participation.
Statement of the problem
Although political hashtag trends on Twitter have become central to Nigerian digital activism, there is limited research on how these trends drive semantic shifts in political discourse. Existing studies often address the political impact of hashtags without delving into their linguistic transformation (Emeka, 2023). The dynamic nature of semantic change, fueled by rapid online engagement, remains underexplored, particularly regarding how meanings evolve within political contexts. This gap poses challenges for scholars aiming to understand the linguistic dimensions of digital activism. Furthermore, policymakers and educators lack comprehensive frameworks to analyze these semantic shifts, which are critical for interpreting political narratives in the digital age (Ndukwe, 2024). This study aims to fill these gaps by providing a focused examination of semantic shifts in political hashtag trends.
Objectives of the study
1. To analyze semantic shifts in political hashtags on Twitter.
2. To investigate the relationship between digital activism and semantic change.
3. To develop a framework for understanding language evolution in political discourse.
Research questions
1. How do political hashtags on Twitter undergo semantic shifts?
2. What factors influence the evolution of meaning in these hashtags?
3. How do these semantic changes affect political discourse in Nigeria?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it explores the semantic transformations in Nigerian political hashtag trends, providing insight into the dynamic relationship between digital activism and language evolution. The findings will enhance sociolinguistic theories and inform political communication strategies. By elucidating how meanings shift within political discourse, the research offers valuable guidance for educators, policymakers, and media practitioners in interpreting digital political narratives (Uche, 2023; Balogun, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is limited to analyzing semantic shifts in political hashtag trends on Twitter, excluding other platforms and non-political hashtag usage.
Definitions of terms
• Semantic Shifts: Changes in the meaning of words or expressions over time.
• Hashtag Trends: Popular and evolving hashtags used to mobilize and communicate on social media.
• Digital Activism: The use of digital tools to drive political and social change.
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