SOCIAL MEDIA AND YOUTH PARTICIPATION IN THE 2023 GENERAL ELECTION PROCESSES: A STUDY OF KATSINA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KATSINA STATE
Muhammad Garba Yauri 1, Abdulwahab Abubakar Kaura 2 & Basiru Abubakar 3
Department of Sociology, Al-Qalam University, Katsina 1
Department of Political Science, Al-Qalam University, Katsina 2
Department of General Studies, Federal Polytechnic Daura, Katsina 3
Corresponding Email: muhammadgarbayauri@auk.edu.ng 1
Abstract
Refers to the act of spreading political information or advertising a product. The objective of this study is to the challenges in the use of social media for political participation by youth. The study adopted mixed methods of data collection with a sample size of 384 respondents for both quantitative and qualitative methods. Uses and Gratification theory has been adopted as the theoretical framework of the study. The study found that the majority of the youths in Katsina have lack of money, distrust in electoral processes, and political maneuver find them difficult to participate in politics and even to win for political office. The paper concludes that these social media platforms include Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and WhatsApp, which have made it easier for people to share political information either false or tangible information. The study recommends that youths should use social media as a means of spreading message and information that are meaningful and relevant to the context of reality.
Keywords: Campaigns, General Election Processes, Party Manifestation, Social Media, Youth Participation.
