The Role of Digital Media in Nigerian Social Movements: A Case Study of #WeCantBreathe Nigeria

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The Role of Digital Media in Nigerian Social Movements: A Case Study of #WeCantBreathe Nigeria

Abstract:

This study explores the role of digital media in Nigerian social movements, with a focus on the #WeCantBreathe Nigeria campaign. Digital media platforms have become powerful tools for mobilizing public support, amplifying voices, and driving societal change. The research employs a quantitative approach, sampling 200 participants, including activists, social media users, and campaign supporters, using structured questionnaires to analyze the impact of digital media in mobilization, awareness creation, and sustaining the #WeCantBreathe movement.

Findings reveal that digital media played a central role in the campaign, with 87% of respondents acknowledging that platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram significantly enhanced visibility and engagement. Real-time updates, viral hashtags, and visual storytelling were identified as critical factors in galvanizing national and international support. The study also highlights challenges such as digital divides, misinformation, and government censorship, which sometimes hindered campaign effectiveness.

The research concludes that digital media is an indispensable tool for contemporary social movements in Nigeria, capable of uniting diverse voices for collective action. Recommendations include fostering digital literacy, ensuring equitable access to digital platforms, and leveraging strategic partnerships with local and global advocacy groups to sustain and expand social movements.

Chapter One: Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

Digital media has emerged as a critical driver of social movements worldwide, transforming how individuals and groups organize, mobilize, and advocate for social change. In Nigeria, the advent of digital platforms has enabled citizens to amplify their voices, share their stories, and rally support for various causes, including social justice, human rights, and governance reforms. The #WeCantBreathe movement, inspired by global calls for racial justice and police accountability, exemplifies how digital media can catalyze activism and public discourse in Nigeria.

Social movements like #WeCantBreathe Nigeria leverage the power of digital media to bridge geographical and cultural divides, bringing together diverse stakeholders to address pressing societal issues. Platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook serve as virtual arenas for public dialogue, enabling activists to document incidents of injustice, share real-time updates, and engage with both local and international audiences.

The #WeCantBreathe Nigeria movement specifically draws attention to police brutality, systemic corruption, and the broader implications of state violence on civil liberties. By adopting digital media strategies, the movement has sparked widespread awareness and galvanized youth participation in advocacy efforts. Campaign hashtags, viral posts, and live-streamed protests have created an ecosystem of visibility and accountability, pressuring authorities to respond to citizens’ demands.

Despite these successes, challenges persist. Digital activism often faces hurdles such as misinformation, cyber surveillance, and limited internet access in rural areas. Furthermore, the reliance on digital platforms raises questions about the sustainability of such movements beyond online spaces. Critics argue that while digital media amplifies voices, it may not always translate into tangible policy changes or systemic reforms.

The #WeCantBreathe Nigeria movement exemplifies the dual power and limitations of digital media in driving social change. This study explores the role of digital platforms in shaping the movement’s strategies, outcomes, and impact on Nigerian society. By examining the intersection of technology, activism, and governance, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the transformative potential of digital media in fostering social justice.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Social movements in Nigeria have historically faced significant barriers, including censorship, limited funding, and the challenge of mobilizing large and diverse populations. The advent of digital media has provided new avenues for activism, yet its effectiveness in achieving lasting social change remains contested.

The #WeCantBreathe Nigeria movement highlights both the opportunities and challenges of digital activism. While the movement has successfully raised awareness about police brutality and systemic injustice, its reliance on digital platforms raises questions about inclusivity, effectiveness, and sustainability. Many Nigerians, particularly those in underserved communities, lack consistent access to the internet, limiting their ability to participate in or benefit from such movements.

Moreover, digital activism in Nigeria often encounters resistance from authorities, including attempts to censor online content, surveillance of activists, and the deployment of counter-narratives to discredit movements. These challenges can dilute the impact of campaigns and hinder their ability to achieve meaningful policy or societal change.

This study seeks to address these issues by investigating the role of digital media in the #WeCantBreathe Nigeria movement. It examines how digital platforms have shaped the movement’s strategies, mobilization efforts, and outcomes, while also exploring the limitations and barriers that impact its effectiveness.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

General Objective:
To examine the role of digital media in shaping social movements in Nigeria, using the #WeCantBreathe Nigeria movement as a case study.

Specific Objectives:

1. To explore how digital platforms are used to mobilize and engage participants in the #WeCantBreathe Nigeria movement.
2. To assess the impact of digital media on raising awareness about social justice issues in Nigeria.
3. To identify the challenges and limitations faced by digital activism in Nigeria.
4. To evaluate the role of digital media in influencing policy and societal change through social movements.
5. To recommend strategies for enhancing the effectiveness of digital media in Nigerian social movements.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How do digital platforms facilitate the mobilization and engagement of participants in the #WeCantBreathe Nigeria movement?
2. What is the impact of digital media on public awareness of social justice issues in Nigeria?
3. What challenges and limitations affect the effectiveness of digital activism in Nigeria?
4. How does digital media influence policy and societal changes in the context of social movements?
5. What strategies can enhance the role of digital media in Nigerian social movements?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant for several reasons. First, it contributes to the growing body of literature on the intersection of technology and social justice, offering insights into how digital media can transform activism and civic engagement in Nigeria.

Second, the research provides practical value for activists, policymakers, and digital media professionals. By highlighting the strengths and limitations of digital platforms in social movements, the study offers actionable recommendations for maximizing their impact and addressing existing challenges.

Third, the study benefits the general public by fostering a better understanding of the role of digital media in promoting accountability and justice. Increased awareness of the potential and limitations of digital activism can inspire more informed and responsible participation in social movements.

Fourth, the research addresses broader societal concerns about inequality, governance, and human rights. By examining the #WeCantBreathe Nigeria movement, the study underscores the importance of leveraging technology to advocate for marginalized communities and drive systemic change.

Finally, the study holds relevance for international audiences interested in the dynamics of digital activism in developing countries. The findings provide valuable lessons for global efforts to harness digital media for social justice and civic engagement.

1.6 Scope of the Study

This study focuses on the #WeCantBreathe Nigeria movement as a case study, analyzing its use of digital media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. The research examines the period from 2020 to 2023, a timeframe marked by heightened activism and the proliferation of digital campaigns in Nigeria.

The study investigates the movement’s strategies, challenges, and outcomes while considering the broader implications of digital media for social justice in Nigeria. However, it does not include an in-depth analysis of offline activism or other movements beyond the #WeCantBreathe Nigeria campaign.

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms

Digital Media: Online platforms and tools used for creating, sharing, and consuming information, including social media, websites, and blogs.

Social Movements: Organized efforts by groups or individuals to advocate for social, political, or economic change.

#WeCantBreathe Nigeria: A digital campaign advocating for justice and accountability in response to police brutality and systemic inequality in Nigeria.

Digital Activism: The use of digital platforms to promote social or political causes and mobilize public participation.

Policy Discourse: Public discussions and debates about laws, regulations, and governance issues.

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