A Multimodal Discourse Study of Visual Images in Select Online News Discourse on the 2023 General Elections in Nigeria

Abstract

This multimodal discourse study examines visual images in selected online news discourse on the 2023 presidential elections in Nigeria to identify the various meanings which the images have been used to communicate. Two online newspapers, namely, Vanguard and Business Day served as the sources of data. Drawing insights from Kress & Leeuwen’s (2006) Visual Grammar Theory, ten images (five from each newspaper) were purposively sampled and subjected to critical analysis using four key components (participants, representation, interaction and composition) of the theory. The results showed that the analyzed visual images are representative of the major presidential candidates’ political, religious, and cultural affiliations; voters’ religious and cultural orientation; voters’ patience and tenacity in exercising their right to vote; the inadequate electoral system; the serenity and tranquility observed in certain polling locations; the presence of military personnel; and the millions of naira lost during election. Furthermore, the visual depictions explicitly summarized what was stated in writing and speaking. The findings corroborate the visual grammar theory and underline the importance of visual images as semiotic resources in transmitting various meanings.