IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON NIGERIAN 2023 ELECTIONS: THE IMPERATIVE FOR EDUCATION

Abstract

This paper analyzed the impact of social media on Nigeria 2023 elections. It adopted qualitative approach. The social media has become a super highway platform for information dissemination through visual and audiovisual and has enhance so many activities in our socialscape and politicalscape. Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube help to activate citizens’ engagement in political life. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) saddled with the responsibility of educating voters on their electoral roles and responsibilities unfortunately doesn’t have pronounced presence in the social space, as social media information lack verification, bias and partisan as well as have reports that can be vulnerable to manipulations and hacking, which can compromise the integrity of the electoral process. Yet, social media has revealed many nefarious issues affecting the electoral process, social media act as agency for campaign and presentation of Party Manifestoes and exposes some unscrupulous government attitude towards the practice of democracy. The following recommendations were made; there should be enactment of Act or Law that will allow social media information be admissible in a court of law and ensure professionalism. Others includes Presence and engagement unit in various political party and INEC. Finally, Social media information should be accepted in court as to reduce police brutality and harassment during elections.