This is a big topic that has caused and is still causing hatred among the citizens of my country. Just as we know all life activities are increasingly conducted on social media, which has become a vibrant space for rants, complaints, discussions, and entertainment. Personal life matters, social issues, religion, fashion, business, food, culture, entertainment, and politics all find their way onto these platforms.
Numerous groups exist where opinions are shared, and the once prevalent ignorance regarding political affairs is gradually diminishing, thanks to technology that has illuminated many issues. Social media provides a critical platform for politicians to showcase their manifestos, share information about themselves, and seek support from citizens. In return, voters have the opportunity to make informed choices.
From the Politician's perspective: Politicians leverage social media to connect directly with voters, communicate their vision, address concerns, campaign for their team, build their brand, and highlight their achievements.
From the voters' perspective, social media serves as a crucial tool for accessing direct information about politicians and their policies, evaluating track records, providing feedback, and mobilizing support for their preferred candidates.
How has social media impacted us?
Social media stands out as an effective medium for citizens to voice grievances, express frustrations, and potentially prompt solutions. A notable example is the case of a woman who posted a video detailing how the current economic climate has severely impacted many, including corps members. Her heartfelt message about the unbearable inflation led to a swift implementation of the new minimum wage.
In her words, she challenged the president as "terrible" for failing to make life more manageable for citizens. She was annoyed when she got to the market and discovered that how was she going to manage $30 for a month with the rate food is expensive, transportation is highly out of pity and as a lady, she needs to take care of herself and that was what prompted the video. Do you think she didn't receive any threats? She did from the so-called leaders threatening her in all ways, but we need more videos of such that can help us reset the brains of these leaders who care only for themselves. If there's one thing they fear, it is social media!
During the last general election, social media played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and empowering citizens to hold politicians accountable. There are three dominant parties in Nigeria which are APC, PDP, and Labour Party, and their candidates; it was on social media that we heard about their dirty secrets: somebody contesting to be the president aimed to sell our birthright, which he did when he was the former Vice president. Is it not from frying pan to fire if we vote for him again? Thanks to social media. The best social media platform for politics is Twitter.
However, there is an urgent need for a regulatory body to oversee social media usage, ensuring the prevention of misinformation and the abuse of these platforms.
This is my participation in the #hivelearners weekly writing edition on the topic of social MEDIA AND POLITICS.
The images are sourced.
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