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ABSTRACT
This research is focused on the role Facebook, a social media platform played in conveying public opinion in regards to the 2023 Nigerian general elections held across the country. The 2023 Nigerian elections was one election that Nigerians looked forward to, it also attracted the attention of the international community. If there was anything perculiar about the election, it was the part of youth awakening and involvement. Discovering the power and influence of social media from the events of the 2020 END SARS PROTESTS, the 2023 elections was another opportunity the youths and citizens of Nigeria utilized to show support for their preferred candidates from various parties. The study sought to examine the influence of Facebook and role it played in the elections, the menace of fake news; it's effect and if it was well combated by Facebook. The research was carried out using standard questionnaire to obtain information from 100 respondents. Non probability sampling technique was employed in the usage of the questionnaires and analyzed quantitatively using frequency table and percentage. From the study it revealed the dissatisfaction Facebook users had about fake news that made them loose trust in news and information they came across on the platform, it is important to highlight how the platform became a tool in the hands of political agents to sell propaganda against their opponents but in spite of these, it didn't deny the fact that the electorates still voiced out their minds using the platform and engaged in political conversations, debates. The study lastly recommended measures to be taken to address most of the issues encountered while using the platform some of which are; Facebook should increase transparency in political advertising and funding sources to reduce the influence of hidden interests. Encourage users to engage in civil and informed discussions. Promote the use of social media for productive conversations and information sharing. Facebook should work closely with local authorities and organizations to monitor and report any instances of election-related misinformation or manipulation.
