THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON ELECTORAL PARTICIPATION IN NIGERIA: THE 2023 DELTA STATE GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION IN PERSPECTIVE

ABSTRACT

This study examined the impact of social media on electoral participation in Nigeria, specifically the 2023 governorship election in Delta State. The study used a descriptive research approach to evaluate how citizens used social media during the election, its impact on political knowledge and opinion formation, and the obstacles connected with its usage in the electoral process. The findings showed considerable patterns of social media usage among voters, a major impact on political awareness and opinion formation, and issues linked to misinformation and manipulation. Based on the findings, the report made recommendations for increasing the beneficial influence of social media on electoral participation, such as fact-checking campaigns, social media literacy programs, and regulatory steps to maintain a free and fair electoral process. This research contributes to the field of political science, shedding light on the role of social media in shaping electoral outcomes in Nigeria.