Mediating democratic engagement: The impact of new media on Nigerians’ involvement in political and civil life

Abstract

The new media has become a primary news stories hub in Nigeria in recent times. Stories about civic demonstrations, social crusades, public office holders, elections, political corruption, and police brutality are items that consistently make the news on new media platforms; hence, media audiences are greatly influenced with respect to political and civic matters. This study investigated the impact of new media in mediating democratic engagement among Nigerians. The study is anchored on the public sphere and social capital theories, and combined the qualitative desk and case referencing research approach. The study revealed that Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are highly engaged platforms for democratic purposes in Nigeria as Nigerians now participate heavily in social demonstrations, contribute to political discussions, seek justice, and engage political leaders on democratic and social matters in the online space. The study also discovered that new media has improved the involvement of Nigerians in the electioneering process although much of the involvement in this area is purely online rather than at the polls where leaders are elected. The study suggests that Nigerians, especially youths, should add action to their virtual voices and move beyond holding demonstrations like we have seen in recent times, to actively getting involved in the process of electing leaders into political offices across the nation.