The Impact of Viral Hashtags on Nigerian Semantic Networks: A Case Study of Twitter Political Movements
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Background of the study
Viral hashtags have revolutionized digital communication, particularly within politically charged environments on Twitter. In Nigeria, political movements harness hashtags not only as mobilization tools but also as catalysts for semantic change. These hashtags rapidly disseminate new meanings and recontextualize existing lexicon to reflect evolving socio-political narratives (Adeola, 2023). As hashtags gain traction, they reshape semantic networks by forging new associations between words and concepts. This dynamic process is driven by collective participation, cultural shifts, and the immediacy of online discourse. Nigerian Twitter users engage with hashtags in ways that challenge traditional semantic boundaries, creating a fluid lexicon that adapts to current events (Ibrahim, 2024). By analyzing trending political hashtags, this study aims to map the evolution of semantic networks and explore the mechanisms underlying meaning change. The research will provide insights into how digital activism and social trends drive linguistic innovation and reshape public discourse (Obi, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the influential role of viral hashtags in shaping semantic networks, there is limited research examining their specific impact on meaning in Nigerian Twitter political movements. Existing studies often address the political dimensions of hashtags without a focused analysis of the semantic shifts they induce. This gap limits our understanding of how collective online behavior transforms language and influences cultural narratives. Consequently, educators and policymakers are challenged by the absence of detailed data on digital semantic change, hampering efforts to adapt to evolving communication trends (Chinwe, 2023).
Objectives of the study
1. To analyze semantic networks formed by political hashtags on Twitter.
2. To identify patterns of meaning change induced by viral hashtags.
3. To develop models explaining digital semantic evolution.
Research questions
1. How do viral hashtags reshape semantic networks?
2. What patterns of meaning change are observable?
3. What factors drive these semantic shifts?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it investigates the impact of viral hashtags on semantic networks in Nigerian political discourse, contributing to our understanding of digital semantic evolution. The findings will inform sociolinguistic theory and help guide language education and policy in an era of rapid digital change (Adeola, 2023; Obi, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is limited to analyzing political hashtags on Nigerian Twitter and does not extend to other social media platforms or non-political contexts.
Definitions of terms
• Semantic Networks: The interrelated meanings of words within a language system.
• Hashtag: A word or phrase preceded by "#" used to index topics on social media.
• Viral: Rapidly and widely spread through social media.
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