THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON VOTERS

The impact of social media has been fundamental in increasing citizen’s political
participation in recent elections in Nigeria. The objective of this study is to examine if social
media has been a tool to rejuvenate the interest of the citizens in political participation with a specific focus on the 2023 election in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. Democratic procedural theory was used to demonstrate how social media revitalized the interest of citizen in political participation. The research design is mainly qualitative study. Awell constructed questions tailored along the objectives of the study in formof an in-depth interview were used to collect data form 10 knowledgeable experts who resides withinthelocal government. It was found out that the social medial has increased voters’ participationin the 2023 election. The study also unveiled that social media has helped to sensitize citizento make aim informed decision in the 2023 election. The study recommends amongst others, the government and other concerned organization should help to spread internet to the rural
area of Nigeria to enable more political participation. The lastly, the study recommendthereduction of harsh Dracula laws that discourage citizens political process participation, thereby fostering freedom of speech and online community building.