IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA

This study investigates the impact of social media on democratic governance in Nigeria, focusing on its influence on political participation, transparency, accountability, and electoral processes. The rapid growth of social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, and WhatsApp has significantly transformed political communication and citizen engagement in Nigeria. This development has raised important questions about the role of social media in strengthening or undermining democratic governance. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design, and data were collected from 100 respondents through the use of structured questionnaires. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods such as frequency distribution and percentages. The findings revealed that social media plays a significant role in enhancing political participation, particularly among young people, by providing platforms for political discussions, mobilization, and awareness. The study also found that social media promotes transparency and accountability by enabling citizens to access information and monitor government activities. However, it further revealed that social media presents challenges such as the spread of fake news, misinformation, hate speech, and political manipulation, which can negatively affect democratic processes. The study concludes that while social media has contributed positively to democratic governance in Nigeria, there is a need for responsible usage, improved digital literacy, and appropriate regulatory frameworks to minimize its negative effects. The study recommends that stakeholders work collaboratively to harness the benefits of social media while addressing its challenges.