PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF THE BAUCHI STATE GOVERNMENT’S N20 BILLION FLYOVER PROJECT: A STUDY OF SAVE BAUCHI GROUP ON FACEBOOK

This study explored public perception of the Bauchi State Government’s N20 billion flyover project as expressed by members of the Save Bauchi Group on Facebook. The project, presented as a major infrastructural initiative, sparked intense debate over its cost, priority, transparency, and socio-economic implications. Grounded in Agenda-Setting Theory and Habermas’ Public Sphere Theory, the research examined how social media functions as a platform for civic engagement and public accountability. Using a qualitative approach, Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) was applied to 46 purposively selected posts and comments from November 2023 to June 2024. Data were coded and analyzed thematically, focusing on tone, key themes, sentiment intensity, and perceived socio-economic impact. Findings indicated that most contributors expressed negative or critical views, highlighting concerns about misplaced priorities, corruption, inadequate stakeholder consultation, and lack of transparency in financing. Many participants argued that pressing needs in education, healthcare, and rural infrastructure were overlooked, and feared economic hardship from potential business displacement. A minority, however, recognized the project’s potential to enhance urban development, reduce traffic congestion, and modernize Bauchi City. The study concludes that Facebook acted as an alternative public sphere, allowing citizens to voice concerns, challenge government decisions, and advocate for accountability. Recommendations include greater transparency, inclusive public consultation, effective communication strategies, and further research using multiple social media platforms and larger datasets for broader insights.