The role of the new media in the electioneering process of developing nations, a case study of Nigeria 2015

2016

Abstract: This dissertation examined the roles new media technologies play in the electioneering process of developing nations. The chosen case study was the Nigeria 2015 presidential elections. For this study, the electioneering period was accepted to commence with from the campaign period and to conclude a year after swearing in. This allowed for the study of critical milestones of the electoral cycle.

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The main argument of this study was that the new media played critical roles during the Nigeria 2015 presidential election. This study sought to identify these roles and contextualize their impact with a view to improving and institutionalizing positive trends. It was discovered that practically all stakeholders that participated in one way or the other relied on the new media to improve their operational capability and judgement. It was also discovered that the new media and its ability to disseminate information in geometric proportions is one of the critical factors responsible for the avoidance of post-election crisis in Nigeria. Based on these findings, this study concluded that the new media impacted positively on the Nigeria 2015 presidential elections. It therefore recommended the continued encouragement of the use of new media technologies by all stakeholders participating in future African elections. This study further recommended necessary legislation on the use of technology especially by the Electoral Management Body, where it is not already captured by the constitution.

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